Ryanair Flight Cancellations Take Full Effect

When the no frills carrier announced it was to cancel 40-50 flights every day for the next 6 weeks, then another announcement this week, that’s another 18,000 flights and passengers affected between November and March.

Whilst only a small amount of Ryanair passengers are affected, this still equates to over 300,000 people who will all be forced to book alternative arrangements.

According to the airline, over 90% of those affected have now been contacted by them to make alternative arrangements. There are two options of either being booked on an alternative flights or to be given a full refund it’s those remaining passengers who are being urged to get in contact.

Caused by a ‘mess up’ with pilot holidays, the impact this fiasco will have on the long-term future of the airline is unclear. However, with a forecasted €1.4bn in profit this year, the projected compensation bill of €25m Euros is not likely to cause anything more than light turbulence for Ryanair. Even the negative attention and the fallout is not likely to have any impact on the airline’s success, in an aviation industry that has been dogged with controversy and PR disasters.

In May, British Airways left 75,000 passengers stranded after a power failure impacted operations for three days. In April, United Airlines faced a public backlash and widespread outcry after a passenger was aggressively removed off a flight to make room for a member of staff. Both airlines continue to thrive.

For the passengers though, it can be a different story. Some have had to fork out thousands for alternative flights at late notice, whist others have been left stranded with no accommodation to add to their woes. Whilst many will vow never to use Ryanair again, the lure of cheap fares and the scope of their schedule may be enough to make them think twice.

Looking to combat any lingering issues immediately, Ryanair are attempting to entice new customers by slashing the price of some tickets, and upping their marketing efforts. Furthermore, those suffering from upcoming cancellations have more time to book alternative travel – a ‘luxury’ that those who suffered cancellations last week weren’t afforded. Flights being cancelled with little to no notice should be a thing of the past.

With the worst of this latest Ryanair headline act seemingly behind us, the industry looks forward to an improved reputation amongst the world’s leading airlines, as they continue to fight for market share.

At Colletts our customers come first so if this should ever occur again we are perfectly positioned to assist and analyse the ever evolving airline industry so that you don’t have to. If you are looking to book corporate travel, or if you have been caught up in the Ryanair debacle and need some urgent advice – we are here for you.

For further information call our expert team on 01706 334400, 24/7, for immediate assistance.