Ryanair, Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers, announced record figures for May, transporting 18.9 million passengers across its network. This represents an 11% increase compared to May 2023, when the airline carried 17.4 million passengers. The budget carrier also maintained a strong load factor of 95% for the month, consistent with the previous year, indicating that its flights were consistently well-filled.
The Dublin-based airline operated over 105,600 flights throughout May, underscoring its extensive operational capacity and the breadth of its European network. These figures highlight a sustained appetite for short-haul leisure and business travel across the continent, particularly as the peak summer season approaches. Ryanair has been actively expanding its route offerings and increasing frequencies on popular routes from various UK airports, aiming to capitalise on this strong demand.
For UK travellers, Ryanair's continued growth and high passenger volumes mean a broad range of options for European getaways. The airline operates from numerous UK hubs, including London Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, offering competitive fares to destinations popular with British tourists such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece. Many of these routes do not require a visa for British passport holders for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area, making spontaneous trips more accessible. However, travellers should always check the specific entry requirements for their destination country via the FCDO website closer to their travel date.
Practical advice for UK travellers considering Ryanair includes booking in advance to secure the best fares, especially for peak travel periods. While Ryanair is known for its low headline prices, additional costs for checked luggage, seat selection, and priority boarding can quickly add up. A typical 10kg checked bag can cost between £20-£50 depending on the route and time of booking, while seat selection starts from around £5. It is also crucial to adhere strictly to baggage allowance rules to avoid unexpected charges at the airport.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all overseas trips. Policies should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. The FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to a very limited number of countries globally, but generally, popular European destinations are considered safe for travel. However, travellers should always consult the FCDO website for the latest travel warnings and advice for their specific destination before departure. Being aware of local laws and customs is also important for a smooth trip.