Ryanair is urging the Irish government to expand its “green list” to include other European Union countries… otherwise, the low-cost airline might relocate elsewhere.
A barely veiled ultimatum that reveals a worrying situation. Ryanair is not in great shape and is currently seeking solutions to lift the restrictions imposed in Ireland for European travelers.
Ryanair Urges Irish Government to Remove Quarantine Requirements
Without an Agreement, the Irish Low-Cost Carrier Threatens to Leave Ireland
These are tough times for airlines… and Ryanair is struggling. With a fleet operating well below its usual capacity, the future of the blue and yellow company looks uncertain.
That’s why they keep pressuring the Irish government. According to the company, the Irish state is enforcing overly strict Covid-19 policies. The very limited green list (which includes only 15 countries) directly threatens thousands of jobs in the air transport and tourism sectors.
The UK, Spain, France, Portugal, and the United States have all been excluded from the list, much to the frustration of potential travelers and major tourism players. This decision could lead to massive losses for the local industry.
That’s why Ryanair has decided to take a firm stand. The company has demanded that the Irish government increase the number of countries on its green list… If refused, Ryanair intends to leave Ireland and favor countries more open to air traffic during this pandemic.
In its request, the airline insisted that all 27 EU countries be reinstated on the list.
This green list has done more harm than good to the Irish tourism industry. If it remains unchanged, it will continue to have a “serious negative impact” on the sector, leading to further job losses.
As a reminder, Ryanair recently canceled 1,000 flights between Ireland and the UK. This decision has had consequences not only for the airline’s economy but also for tourism in Ireland.
If Ireland does not act now with incentives to attract traffic this winter and for next year and beyond, airlines will plan accordingly and shift this traffic to the other 27 EU countries and the UK.
Ryanair reported a loss of €185 million in just three months. It’s no surprise the airline is trying every possible way to bounce back…
However, the Irish government faces a difficult choice. The country is divided over the health issue: is it possible to revive the economy without sacrificing lives? The debate remains open.
