Europe’s largest low-cost airline, Ryanair, has signaled it may walk away from a multi-billion-dollar deal with Boeing, citing rising tensions over potential U.S. tariffs and growing interest in Chinese-made aircraft as alternative options.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary voiced frustration over what he called “unacceptable pricing pressures” and warned that escalating trade disputes between the U.S. and Europe could push the airline to explore non-American aircraft suppliers namely China’s COMAC.
“We’re deeply concerned about the threat of retaliatory tariffs on American aircraft entering the EU,” O’Leary said. “If these tariffs materialize, they could make Boeing jets significantly more expensive than necessary. We won’t hesitate to look at alternatives.”
Ryanair currently has more than 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft on order, part of its aggressive post-pandemic expansion strategy. But the potential imposition of tariffs on U.S.-made goods, including aircraft, has put that relationship under strain. The dispute stems from long-standing trade tensions and a tit-for-tat tariff regime involving aircraft subsidies between Boeing and its European rival Airbus.
O’Leary noted that Ryanair has held preliminary discussions with Chinese aircraft manufacturer COMAC, which recently launched the C919 narrow-body jet to challenge Boeing and Airbus in global markets. While the C919 is not yet certified in Europe, industry analysts view Ryanair’s interest as a strategic move to pressure Boeing and hedge against trade volatility.
“COMAC is making significant progress,” O’Leary said. “If they can deliver a competitive aircraft at the right price, it would be foolish not to consider them.”
A Boeing spokesperson declined to comment directly on Ryanair’s remarks but reiterated the company’s commitment to its international customers and its support for free trade.
Aviation experts suggest Ryanair’s threat may also be a negotiation tactic aimed at securing better terms from Boeing amid rising aircraft prices and delivery delays. However, the growing credibility of COMAC and the broader shift toward diversifying supply chains add weight to the airline’s warning.
“Whether or not Ryanair ultimately switches suppliers, this is a wake-up call for Boeing,” said aviation analyst Clara Hendricks. “They can no longer assume loyalty in an increasingly competitive and politicized market.”
The coming months will be critical as both trade negotiations and Ryanair’s fleet strategy evolve. For now, the airline’s message is clear: Boeing is on notice.
source: brusselssignal.eu