Ryanair has made £18 billion from adding-on fees in the last decade. Passengers are charged “eye-watering” amounts to book seats and store bags.
The analysis shows that the airline’s “ancillary revenue” has exploded from €1.06bn in 2013 (£910m to €3.84bn).
These figures are being released amid increased scrutiny of Ryanair’s low-cost model , after an elderly couple were recently charged £110 because they checked in for the incorrect flight.
Ruth Jaffe and her husband Peter, a retired GP filed a formal complaint when they were forced to pay airport fees after downloading the return ticket instead of outgoing tickets.
Ryanair’s balance sheet has been boosted by charging for “optional services” such as fast boarding, food and drinks on board, or seats next to one another.
These add-on charges have risen dramatically in recent years. Ryanair’s ancillary revenue has increased by 70pc per passenger booked since 2013, and now stands at €22.80.
The increase in flight prices has also coincided with this rise, because airlines are looking to gain ground after the pandemic by passing on increased fuel costs.
In recent years, rival budget airlines such as easyJet, WizzAir and others have prioritized charging more for extras.
EasyJet has seen its ancillary revenues per passenger increase by 78pc in the last six years.
Add-ons are now almost a third (up from a fifth) of the company’s total revenue.
Ryanair, despite the controversy this week, defended their policy of charging the couple. They said: “We are sorry that these passengers did not check in online and ignored their email notification.”
It was not surprising that Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary had previously said, “You’re going to get no refund. So f— off.” No need to tell us your sad stories. “What part of “no refund” don’t understand?”
In 2017, budget airlines were accused of intentionally splitting families that refused to pay for extra seats. Ryanair denied that this had happened.
Rory Boland is the editor of Which? Travel said: “Like other budget airlines, Ryanair has learned to extract as much money from passengers as possible. They charge eye-watering prices for anything from a large bag to sitting with your children.
Compare the prices of different airlines and compare what you want. You may find it cheaper to fly with an airline who includes hold luggage or seat selection as part of its standard fare.
Ryanair’s spokesperson said: “Ryanair offers the lowest fares in Europe and unbeatable choices for our customers.”
“Our average fare of €49 demonstrates the exceptional value Ryanair provides to its customers. Priority boarding, insurance and other products are available. All ancillary services are optional, and passengers may mix and match them.”