Ryanair CEO Slams EU President Von der Leyen for Air Traffic Control Failures

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has issued a forceful critique of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, labeling her “Useless” and ineffective in her role concerning the continent’s air traffic control (ATC) system. The outspoken airline chief pointed to persistent flight delays, escalating airport charges, and a general rise in operational expenses as direct consequences of what he describes as the EU’s failure to implement necessary reforms.

O’Leary’s remarks, made at a media event, suggest a stark contrast between von der Leyen’s public communication and her capacity for driving substantive change. He stated, “It is time for ‘Useless’ Von der Leyen to stop talking about competitiveness and start doing something about it.” He further elaborated that European airlines have long called for effective reform of the “deficient” ATC services, including demands for full staffing of air traffic controllers during peak morning hours and potential fines for providers failing to meet these requirements. O’Leary also highlighted the need for protection of overflights during national air traffic controller strikes, asserting that despite these repeated calls, von der Leyen has taken no action.

O’Leary’s history of public criticism extends beyond von der Leyen, with past barbs directed at various political figures and institutions. He has previously referred to Spain’s Minister of Consumer Affairs, Pablo Bustinduy, as a “clown,” described the European Parliament as a “club of idiotic charlatans,” and called Donald Trump a “liar.”

Ryanair’s Grievances

According to Ryanair, flight volumes are still 5% below pre-Covid-19 levels, yet ATC-related delays have increased. The airline points to Spain as the second-worst country in Europe for such delays, accounting for 11% of the total. Ryanair argues that airlines are being doubly penalized by rising operational costs and worsening service, leading to more delays.

The airline’s position is that the current situation is unsustainable, with flights growing but hampered by inefficiencies in air traffic management. The company insists that a lack of adequate staffing and outdated systems are primary drivers of the problem.

Counterarguments and Staffing Issues

Enaire, the public company managing air traffic control in Spain, has previously questioned Ryanair’s narrative. Last year, Enaire reported a reduction in ATC delays during peak summer months despite an increase in flight volume. However, Ryanair predicts a 20% rise in delays this summer if controller staffing is not increased.

This perspective is echoed by the Independent Professional Controllers Union (SPICA). SPICA claims that Spain has lost 116 air traffic controllers since 2010, intensifying the workload on remaining staff and increasing the risk of delays. The union also points out that the two-year training period for air traffic controllers means that shortages cannot be quickly rectified.

The Importance of Punctuality for Ryanair

Ryanair’s strong focus on this issue is rooted in its business model, which heavily relies on punctuality. The airline’s tight scheduling means that even minor delays on early flights can cause a domino effect, disrupting subsequent services throughout the day. This can lead to increased costs for the airline, including potential refunds to passengers. The company’s demands to the European Commission are aimed at compelling member states to ensure sufficient controller availability, particularly during critical morning and evening travel periods.

What remains unclear

While Ryanair and controller unions highlight staffing shortages and systemic inefficiencies as the primary causes of delays, the exact extent of the European Commission’s awareness and the specific actions, or inactions, attributed to Ursula von der Leyen remain subject to interpretation and debate. The effectiveness of potential future reforms and the response from other EU member states are also yet to be determined.

Key Facts

Source: https://www.xataka.com/movilidad/michael-leary-ryanair-a-von-der-leyen-se-le-da-muy-bien-dar-discursos-inutil-impulsando-competitividad-europa