Ryanair Chief Regrets Controversial 'Rapist' Airline Comments

WHO:

NY Post - Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary

WHAT:

NY Post - O’Leary apologized for comparing rival European airlines that charge high prices to “rapists” during a press conference.

BBC News - O’Leary described his choice of language as "careless" and stated "it won't happen again".

WHERE:

NY Post - The comments were made during a press conference, though the specific location is not mentioned.

WHEN:

NY Post - The apology was issued on a Friday following the press conference held the previous week.

WHY:

BBC News - O’Leary's remarks were criticized for their insensitivity and inappropriateness.

HOW:

NY Post - The comparison was made verbally during a press conference.

(UPDATED September 18, 2026 22:01 UTC)

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has issued an apology for his controversial remarks comparing rival European airlines that charge high prices to "rapists" during a recent press conference. He described his choice of language as "careless" and assured that "it won't happen again." O’Leary's comments drew criticism for their insensitivity, prompting the apology issued on a Friday following the press conference held the previous week.