Are you planning a trip to Ireland in 2027? The cost of your flight could account for a larger share of your travel budget. On 10 September 2026, Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary warned that a “significant” increase in airfares could come next year if oil prices remain high. This remains a conditional scenario, however, rather than a confirmed increase on every flight.
Why is Ryanair considering more expensive tickets in 2027?
Speaking on the sidelines of Ryanair’s annual general meeting in Dublin, Michael O’Leary explained that persistently high oil prices into 2027 could lead to a substantial rise in fares. The airline hopes to avoid that outcome, but fuel is one of air travel’s major costs.
Oil: the main source of uncertainty
When fuel costs more, airlines must absorb part of the bill, increase their revenue or adjust their flight schedules. The prices paid by passengers also depend on competition, demand and the number of seats available on each route. A rise in oil prices does not therefore automatically result in the same increase on every ticket.
Winter fares still uncertain
Michael O’Leary expects average prices to fall very slightly in the July-to-September 2026 quarter, but considers their trajectory far less predictable for the quarters ending in December and March. According to Reuters and RTÉ, winter fares could ultimately remain stable or rise slightly, while the risk of a more pronounced increase mainly concerns 2027 if oil remains expensive.
Ryanair has already scaled back some of its traffic ambitions
In early September, the airline lowered its traffic target for the financial year ending in March 2027 from 216 million to 214 million passengers. It has also reduced some winter capacity in order to limit its exposure to fuel bought at market prices. These decisions do not mean that every route to Ireland will be cancelled or that fares will necessarily rise: they primarily show that Ryanair is adjusting its offering in response to uncertainty.
Why hedging contracts do not provide indefinite protection
Like other carriers, Ryanair buys some of its fuel in advance at agreed prices. This strategy, known as hedging, temporarily cushions market fluctuations. However, unhedged volumes remain exposed to current prices, and contracts eventually expire. If oil remains expensive for an extended period, cost pressures may therefore intensify.
What could this mean for a trip to Ireland in 2027?
French travellers considering Dublin, Cork or another Irish destination should chiefly bear in mind that no percentage increase has been announced for their journey. The final price will depend on the departure city, date, seat availability, demand and selected options. It would be misleading to say at this stage that all Ryanair flights to Ireland will cost more in 2027.
How to plan your budget without rushing
Compare the total cost of the journey, including luggage and transfers, rather than looking only at the headline fare. If your dates are flexible, consider several departure and return days, and compare the airports you can reach from home. For a trip during school holidays or a major event, keep an eye on prices and amendment conditions before booking. Buying immediately is no guarantee of savings: fares change according to availability and airlines’ commercial policies.
For a road trip, the ferry may also be worth comparing, particularly if you want to take your car and a lot of luggage. You will then need to factor in the crossing, journeys to the port and the total travel time: the two modes of transport do not meet exactly the same needs.
Will airfares really increase in 2027?
At this stage, no one can give a reliable average fare for the whole of 2027. Michael O’Leary’s warning explicitly depends on oil prices remaining high. A fall in prices, changing demand or capacity adjustments could alter the situation. For travellers, the sensible approach is therefore to allow some room in the transport budget and compare offers when booking, without confusing a forecast with a confirmed increase.
Sources: Reuters and RTÉ, statements of 10 September 2026; The Irish Times, 2 September 2026; RTÉ Brainstorm, 16 September 2026; Ryanair annual results published on 18 May 2026.
