Summary: Europe’s largest low-cost carrier, Ryanair, has posted a 42% year-on-year increase in first-half net profit, reaching $2.92 billion (€2.54 billion) for the six months ending September 30, 2025. The strong results were driven by higher fares, steady passenger growth, and resilient demand despite ongoing industry challenges.
Financial Performance
Ryanair Holdings announced that profit after tax rose to €2.54 billion ($2.92 billion) in the first half of its 2026 financial year, up from €1.79 billion in the same period last year Ryanair AeroTime.
- Passenger traffic grew by 3% to 119 million, compared with 115.3 million in the prior year.
- Average fares rose by 13%, supported by a strong Easter season and recovery in the second quarter.
- The airline maintained a 95% load factor, underscoring its ability to fill seats despite higher ticket prices.
Market Context
Ryanair’s results come against a backdrop of air traffic control disruptions, rising fuel costs, and regional conflicts that have weighed on the aviation sector. Despite these headwinds, the carrier’s ultra-low-cost model and expansive European network have allowed it to capture demand from both leisure and business travelers.
The company also reported a 20% increase in second-quarter profit, reaching €1.72 billion ($1.98 billion), compared with €1.43 billion a year earlier Ryanair.
Outlook
Looking ahead, Ryanair has raised its full-year passenger forecast to 207 million, reflecting confidence in sustained demand across its network The Wall Street Journal. However, management cautioned that volatile fuel prices, geopolitical risks, and potential air traffic control strikes could weigh on performance in the second half of the year.
Industry Significance
Ryanair’s strong half-year results reinforce its position as Europe’s most profitable airline, highlighting the resilience of the low-cost model in a challenging operating environment. The performance also signals that consumer appetite for travel remains robust, even amid economic uncertainty and inflationary pressures.
In short: Ryanair delivered a record first-half profit of $2.92 billion, up 42% year-on-year, driven by higher fares and steady passenger growth. With demand holding firm, the airline has raised its passenger outlook, though it warns of risks from fuel costs and operational disruptions.
Ryanair-Boeing-737-8-MAX-Colin-Cooke
Sources: Ryanair H1 FY26 Results [Investor Report PDF] Ryanair; AeroTime AeroTime; Investing.com Investing.com UK; Wall Street Journal The Wall Street Journal.
