Ryanair Plans to Invest $3 Billion in Ukraine's Aviation Recovery and Open 75 New Routes between Ukraine and Europe
On July 20th, the leaders of Europe's largest airline, Ryanair, arrived in Kyiv on a working visit. The CEO of Ryanair Group, Michael O'Leary, the CEO of Ryanair DAC, Eddie Wilson, and the Commercial Director of Ryanair DAC, Jason McGuinness, announced their plans to invest $3 billion in Ukraine's aviation recovery, according to the press service of the international airport "Boryspil".
"Low-cost carrier Ryanair intends to bring significant funds to Ukraine and lead the recovery of the Ukrainian aviation market by investing approximately $3 billion and deploying up to 30 new Boeing MAX aircraft in Ukraine's three main airports – Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa. Ryanair plans to open 75 routes from Europe to Ukraine within eight weeks after the airspace is declared safe," the statement said.
The visit included discussions on the partnership between Ryanair and the airport regarding the airline's declared strategic plan for the rapid restoration of international transportation in the Ukrainian market, "once Ukraine achieves victory and EASA confirms flight safety in Ukrainian airspace." Representatives of the airline also met with the Ministry of Recovery of Ukraine.
"In the conditions of the war, the preservation of aviation infrastructure and personnel qualification remains crucial for us. At the same time, flight resumption will be possible as soon as the security situation allows. However, we are already working on solutions and investment plans that will enable a quick restart of flights. I am grateful for Ryanair's leadership in the recovery of our aviation industry, specific proposals, and decisions – a committed partner of Ukraine," summarized the results of the meeting Oleksandr Kubrakov, Vice Prime Minister for Recovery and Minister of Community Development, Territories, and Infrastructure of Ukraine.
"Ryanair remains a dedicated partner in the recovery and investment in Ukraine. Today, I have seen that in the difficult conditions of war, the Boryspil airport team demonstrates its professionalism and is fully prepared for the fastest recovery of flights. Special attention should be given to the preservation of qualified personnel during such a prolonged period of inability to operate stably due to the war," said Michael O'Leary.
In April of this year, Michael O'Leary stated that the airline was ready to resume operations quickly in Ukraine after the cessation of hostilities and the opening of airspace over the country. It was reported that Ryanair had hired around 60 Ukrainian pilots and about 80 crew members, primarily based in Poland, in anticipation of the market's reopening.
Ryanair is the first international airline whose leaders have visited Ukraine since the full-scale war began on February 24, 2022.