In a bid to navigate through the challenges posed by prolonged delays in Boeing plane deliveries. Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary has unveiled plans to bolster the fleet of subsidiary Lauda Europe with several dozen Airbus A320 aircraft.

O’Leary’s strategic decision comes amidst the backdrop of escalating crises at the U.S. aerospace giant Boeing, prompting Ryanair to seek alternatives for fleet expansion and flexibility. Traditionally reliant on boeing737-800s, Ryanair’s uniform fleet has been a cornerstone of its operational efficiency, allowing seamless interchangeability and capacity management.

However, with Boeing facing setbacks in its production schedules, O’Leary is charting a new course. The revelation of plans to order several dozen Airbus A320 aircraft signals a significant shift in Ryanair’s fleet strategy. Lauda Europe, a subsidiary of Ryanair, will be the primary beneficiary of this expansion, potentially altering the aviation landscape in Europe.

Michael O’Leary underscores a clear preference for Boeing 737s, while indicating openness to seizing cost-effective opportunities for acquiring Airbus A320neos.

Looking forward, O’Leary envisions a potential agreement with Airbus within the next five to ten years for procuring new Neo models directly from the factory. In the interim, leasing previously owned units serves as a viable interim solution. However, with Airbus’s current backlog of orders delaying new A320 deliveries until 2030, O’Leary is exploring avenues to prolong lease contracts for existing A320s, ensuring the continuity of Lauda Europe’s operations.

This strategic maneuver underscores Ryanair’s adaptability and ambition as it navigates the competitive airline industry landscape. As O’Leary guides the company towards future growth, the expansion of the Airbus A320 fleet stands as a testament to Ryanair’s evolving strategy and unwavering dedication to innovation.