Low-cost giant Ryanair says it will “vigorously oppose” legal action filed in the Irish High Court by the European National Airlines Alliance (ENAA) – a lobbying bloc led by Lufthansa and Air France-KLM – that seeks to suspend the carrier’s Air Operator Certificate over EU ownership-and-control rules. In a statement to the London Stock Exchange this morning, Ryanair argued that the claim is a “contrived attempt” by legacy airlines unable to match its fares. Under EU Regulation 1008/2008, airlines must be majority-owned and effectively controlled by EU nationals. Ryanair maintains it comfortably meets this test, with 64 % EU shareholding following Brexit-related restructurings in 2021. If the ENAA were to succeed – analysts deem this unlikely – it could trigger mass flight cancellations from Ryanair’s Dublin, Shannon and Cork bases, stranding business travellers and jeopardising regional connectivity just as winter schedules begin. The case also revives debate over Ireland’s role as an aviation regulatory hub and the need for harmonised enforcement across member states. Corporate travel buyers should track proceedings: even an interim injunction could obligate Ryanair to park aircraft for days while proving compliance. Contingency policies should include alternative carriers or re-routing via Heathrow for time-critical trips. The court is expected to schedule a preliminary hearing within weeks. Ryanair says it will pursue costs against ENAA members if the claim is dismissed.
Source: Reuters via LSE RNS
