Ryanair changes family seating policy after UK watchdog investigation
7 reported
Ryanair has adopted a new family seating policy that offers free seat allocation for parents and children after check-in, following an investigation by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority. The airline stated that as of Thursday, adults will be offered seats next to their children at no charge, though these seats are likely to be at the rear of the aircraft. Previously, Ryanair required parents traveling with children aged two to 11 to pay a fee for a mandatory family seat, typically about £8 each way. The CMA opened an investigation to determine whether the earlier policy complied with consumer law, noting that Ryanair was the only large airline flying out of the UK to impose such a charge. Ryanair’s chief executive, Michael O’Leary, criticized the watchdog, accusing it of misunderstanding consumer interests. The airline described the change as a “minor policy tweak” and said it would not affect its revenues.
What’s reported
Ryanair changed its family seating policy after the CMA launched an investigation into charges for parents to sit with their children.
As of Thursday, adults are offered free seats next to their children after check-in, but at the rear of the plane.
All children on the booking will be allocated seats alongside them for no fee.
Previously, Ryanair required parents of children aged 2-11 to pay a mandatory family seat fee, typically about £8 each way.
The CMA found Ryanair was the only large UK-outbound airline imposing this charge.
Ryanair said the change is a “minor policy tweak” and will not impact revenues.
CEO Michael O’Leary accused the CMA of “turning a blind eye” to high fares on routes without competition.
Key figures
Michael O’Leary, chief executive of Ryanair
Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), UK watchdog
Sources: The Guardian
