Ryanair is strategically directing its focus towards securing slots in Rome following the recent ITA/Lufthansa deal. The airline is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the evolving aviation landscape. This strategic move underscores Ryanair's commitment to expanding its presence in key markets and maximizing its operational efficiency. By prioritizing Rome slots, Ryanair aims to strengthen its competitive position and enhance its service offerings to meet the growing demand for air travel in the region.
Ryanair (FR, Dublin International) is "very interested" in acquiring additional slots at Rome Fiumicino which are likely to be relinquished as a condition for Lufthansa Group's takeover of ITA Airways (AZ, Rome Fiumicino), Ryanair Holdings Chief Executive Michael O'Leary said during a press conference in Italy.
The Irish low-cost carrier is already the second-largest operator at Fiumicino with an 11.1% market share by weekly scheduled departure capacity. It has announced plans to add five new routes from the airport during the Summer 2024 season (Dubrovnik, Gothenburg Landvetter, Lisbon, Malta International, and Paris Beauvais), but is looking at even more rapid growth with the potential new slots.
Ryanair also serves Rome Ciampino, where it dominates the market with a 91.5% market share by capacity.
O'Leary said Ryanair is less interested in slots at Milan Linate, the second airport subject to the likely compensatory measures ordered by the European Commission. The LCC is focussed on growing its presence at Milan Bergamo and Milan Malpensa airports. It does not currently serve Linate. In contrast, rivals Wizz Air (W6, Budapest) and easyJet have said they are keen on expanding their currently limited access to high-yielding but slot-constrained Linate.
As the airline continues to navigate the evolving landscape of air travel, securing valuable airport slots remains a pivotal aspect of its growth trajectory.
-(This article is sourced from ch-aviation.com curated by Thetransporteronline24)
