Italy’s Competition Authority (AGCM) has imposed a €256 million administrative fine (approximately $302 million) on Irish low-cost airline Ryanair for abusing its dominant market position.
In its investigation, the authority stated that the airline pursued a “bad-faith strategy” aimed at preventing online travel agencies (OTAs) and other intermediaries from purchasing tickets via the Ryanair website. According to the statement, Ryanair used technical barriers and complex procedures to make ticket sales by agencies more difficult, thereby restricting consumers’ access to alternative travel options and undermining competition.
Ryanair to Appeal the Decision
Ryanair described the fine as “unlawful” and “unfounded,” announcing that it would immediately appeal the decision. In its statement, the airline argued that its direct sales model offers consumers the lowest fares and noted that this approach had previously been ruled lawful by a Milan court.
