Aircraft Accident Bureau Submits Preliminary Report on Air India Ahmedabad Crash

PAC Questions Airlines on Airfare Increase and Safety After AI-171 Crash Parliamentary Scrutiny of Airfare Hikes and Aviation Safety The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Indian Parliament convened on Tuesday to question senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and leading airline representatives regarding the recent surge in airfares and ongoing concerns about aviation safety. This session followed the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 and the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, events that have intensified public and parliamentary scrutiny of the sector. Lawmakers expressed strong disapproval of what they described as opportunistic fare increases by airlines in the wake of the April 22 terror incident in Pahalgam. Tourists attempting to return home reportedly faced exorbitant ticket prices, prompting members of parliament to call for stricter regulation and greater transparency in airline pricing. PAC Chairman and Congress MP KC Venugopal emphasized the dual concerns of safety and affordability, stating, “The sudden surge in fares post-Pahalgam and during the Kumbh was unacceptable. We’ve directed airlines and DGCA to provide transparency on pricing.” In response to public outcry, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu had previously instructed airlines to restrain fare hikes, assuring that ticket prices were being closely monitored to remain reasonable. Focus on AI-171 Crash and Safety Investigations The meeting included officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), Airports Authority of India (AAI), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and representatives from major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the June 12 crash of Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed in Ahmedabad, resulting in the deaths of all 241 passengers and crew, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has submitted its preliminary report to the Civil Aviation Ministry. Notably, the black box data from the crash was decoded domestically for the first time, with technical assistance from the Indian Air Force, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and experts from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Lawmakers questioned the typical duration of black box investigations and the extent of foreign expert involvement in the process. The crash has heightened public scrutiny of Air India’s safety standards and raised concerns about potential compensation disputes with victims’ families. Market analysts predict a temporary decline in Air India’s stock prices and an increase in insurance premiums. Rival airlines are expected to respond with intensified safety audits and marketing efforts emphasizing their own safety records. Despite these concerns, the Indian aviation regulator has reported no major safety issues in Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet following recent inspections. Investigations into the AI-171 crash remain ongoing. Calls for Strengthened Safety Measures and Regulatory Oversight BJP MP Jagdambika Pal underscored that air safety was the primary focus of the PAC discussions, alongside long-term strategies to enhance air connectivity, particularly to the Buddhist Circuit. He remarked, “The Dreamliner was considered one of the safest planes. We want to ensure the cause of the crash is thoroughly probed.” Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Praful Patel highlighted the critical need for skilled manpower within aviation safety bodies, suggesting that retired professionals could be temporarily reinstated to address current staffing shortages. Amid these developments, several Opposition MPs have called for a special audit of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), citing growing concerns about the sector’s overall safety and preparedness. The PAC has demanded clear fare regulations and robust safety measures to restore public confidence in India’s aviation industry.

Person Seriously Injured After Being Drawn Into Plane Engine at Milan Bergamo Airport A man sustained serious injuries after being drawn into the engine of a Volotea Airbus A319-111 on the taxiway at Milan Bergamo Airport on Tuesday morning. The aircraft was preparing for departure to Asturias, Spain, when the incident occurred, prompting an immediate suspension of all flight operations at Italy’s third-busiest airport. The identity and status of the injured individual remain unclear, with authorities yet to confirm whether he was a passenger, airport employee, or an unauthorized person on the tarmac. Italian media reports, including Corriere Della Sera, suggest the man was approximately 35 years old. SACBO, the airport’s operator, halted flights at 10:20 a.m. local time, citing “a problem that occurred on the taxiway.” Although operations resumed around midday, delays and cancellations persisted throughout the afternoon as the airport worked to restore normal schedules. Volotea issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging the incident involving flight V73511 from Bergamo to Asturias. The airline confirmed that the event took place on the ground after boarding was completed and that one individual had sustained serious injuries related to the aircraft engine. An investigation is ongoing, with further information expected. Investigation and Industry Implications The Italian civil aviation authority, alongside law enforcement agencies, has launched a formal investigation focusing on security protocols and how the individual accessed the restricted area. The findings may lead to increased scrutiny of airport safety measures and regulatory oversight, not only at Milan Bergamo but across the aviation sector. While such incidents are rare, similar tragedies have occurred in recent years. In 2023, a worker was fatally injured after being drawn into a Delta plane engine in San Antonio, Texas. Earlier this year, a fatality occurred at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport under comparable circumstances. These events have intensified concerns regarding ground safety and operational procedures at airports worldwide. The repercussions of Tuesday’s incident extend beyond immediate operational disruptions. Airlines and airports may face regulatory investigations, insurance claims, and potential reputational damage. The aviation market could respond with heightened scrutiny of safety practices, potentially influencing passenger confidence and stock valuations. Competitors may also implement enhanced safety protocols and issue public reassurances to maintain customer trust. Milan Bergamo Airport, which handled over 17 million passengers in 2024, remains under close observation as authorities continue their inquiry. Further updates from SACBO and Volotea are anticipated regarding the circumstances of the incident and any subsequent changes to safety procedures.

BeauTech Acquires 12 CF34-10E Engines from Alliance Aviation Strategic Expansion of Engine Leasing Capabilities BeauTech Power Systems has announced the acquisition of 12 General Electric CF34-10E engines from Alliance Aviation Services, the largest operator of Embraer E190 aircraft in Australia. This transaction represents a significant milestone in BeauTech’s ongoing efforts to expand its CF34-10 engine inventory, responding to the growing demand for flexible and reliable engine leasing solutions within the regional aviation sector. The acquisition aligns with BeauTech’s strategy to provide customized leasing arrangements that meet the evolving requirements of airlines and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organizations. Lee Beaumont, Founder and CEO of BeauTech, described the deal as a strategic investment in a high-demand engine platform that is critical to regional aircraft operations worldwide, reinforcing the company’s leadership position in the CF34 engine market. Industry Context and Market Implications From Alliance Aviation’s perspective, the sale enables the company to unlock value from surplus assets while capitalizing on favorable market and currency conditions. Scott McMillan, Managing Director of Alliance Aviation, characterized the partnership with BeauTech as a “natural fit,” ensuring the continued operational use of the engines within the global aviation industry. Alliance’s Aviation Services division remains a key contributor to the company’s overall financial performance. This acquisition occurs amid a complex regulatory landscape shaped by recent policy developments, including the U.S. decision to permit General Electric to resume jet engine shipments to China’s COMAC. Such regulatory shifts introduce additional complexities for cross-border engine transactions and supply chain logistics, challenges that BeauTech must navigate as it executes its growth strategy. Market reactions to BeauTech’s acquisition have been mixed. While some investors view the move as a strategic enhancement of the company’s capabilities and competitive positioning, others express concerns about intensifying competition within the aerospace engine sector. Competitors may respond by strengthening their own supply chains or adjusting pricing strategies to maintain market share. Broader industry challenges persist, notably ongoing supply chain disruptions that continue to affect engine availability and delivery schedules. These factors could impact BeauTech’s ability to fulfill customer demand and achieve its global expansion objectives. Diversified Leasing Portfolio and Future Outlook Beyond the CF34 series, BeauTech’s leasing portfolio encompasses other major engine types, including the CFM56 and LEAP platforms. This diversity enables the company to serve a wide range of commercial airlines and MRO providers worldwide. Despite the prevailing challenges, BeauTech remains committed to delivering dependable, high-performance engine solutions that support the operational needs of the global aviation industry.

Parliamentary Panel Questions Aviation Authorities on AI-171 Crash and Airfare Surge Investigation into Air India Flight 171 Crash In a session held on Tuesday, a Parliamentary Panel rigorously questioned senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, airlines, and airport authorities concerning the recent crash of Air India Flight 171 and the subsequent rise in airfares. The meeting aimed to collect oral evidence from representatives of key agencies, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), Airports Authority of India (AAI), AAICLAS, and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The discussion centered on the levy and regulation of fees, tariffs, and user charges on public infrastructure and utilities, as outlined on the Lok Sabha website. Lawmakers sought clarity on the timeline for the completion of the crash investigation report. Among the top airline executives present was Air India’s CEO and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson. The crash of Flight 171, bound for London Gatwick, occurred on June 12 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, resulting in the tragic loss of 274 lives. This incident stands as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent Indian history. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has been actively supporting the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which is leading the probe from its New Delhi laboratory equipped with advanced technology. The investigation is being conducted under international standards prescribed by ICAO Annex 13 and India’s Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017. The AAIB’s efforts are bolstered by experts from the Indian Air Force, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Boeing, GE, aviation medicine specialists, and Air Traffic Control authorities. Officials confirmed that the crash protection module from one of the aircraft’s black boxes was recovered and accessed by June 25, with data successfully downloaded. To ensure the integrity of the data, investigators employed an identical black box, referred to as a "golden chassis," to verify the accuracy of the information retrieved from the original devices. Impact on Aviation Sector and Fare Regulation Concerns The crash has intensified scrutiny of Air India’s safety protocols and the regulatory oversight of the Indian aviation sector. Industry analysts warn that Air India may face substantial financial consequences, including a potential 30% increase in insurance premiums and claims. The disaster has also raised concerns about reputational damage and increased regulatory scrutiny, factors that could affect investor confidence and temporarily depress Air India’s stock price. In response, competing airlines are reportedly enhancing their safety audits and compliance measures. Beyond the immediate fallout, the tragedy has sparked broader questions regarding aviation oversight in India and may influence tourism and business travel patterns. During the parliamentary session, members also expressed concern over a sharp rise in airfares to Srinagar following the Pahalgam terror attack in April. This issue highlighted ongoing challenges related to fare regulation and consumer protection amid national security crises.

Ajman Transport Authority Selects Skyports for Air Taxi Infrastructure Strategic Partnership to Advance Urban Air Mobility The Ajman Transport Authority has formalized a partnership with Skyports Infrastructure through a memorandum of understanding aimed at developing smart aerial transport solutions, including air taxi services within the emirate. The agreement, signed by Omar Mohammed Lootah, director general of the Ajman Transport Authority, and Daniel O’Neill, general manager of Skyports Middle East, represents a significant step toward integrating cutting-edge mobility technologies into Ajman’s transportation framework. This collaboration will focus on conducting research and feasibility studies to establish smart aerial transport infrastructure, identifying optimal sites for vertiport facilities, and enhancing both technical and operational readiness. Lootah highlighted that the MoU aligns with Ajman’s vision to adopt innovative transport solutions that support its transformation into a smart city. He underscored the importance of partnering with global industry leaders to develop a transportation network that is safe, advanced, and sustainable. O’Neill expressed optimism about the partnership, describing it as a valuable opportunity to advance aerial mobility technologies in Ajman. He noted that the initiative is consistent with the General Civil Aviation Authority’s recent regulations governing vertiport development, which provide a regulatory framework for the emerging sector. Context Within the UAE’s Expanding Air Mobility Sector The agreement between Ajman Transport Authority and Skyports comes amid a broader acceleration of the advanced air mobility sector across the United Arab Emirates. Dubai has recently approved its first commercial vertiport, with operations slated to commence in 2026. Skyports has secured over €103 million (approximately US$107 million) to construct vertiports in preparation for air taxi services in Dubai and has already begun work on its inaugural facility. This Dubai vertiport will cover 3,100 square meters, featuring two landing pads and fast-charging infrastructure. Additionally, Skyports has unveiled proposed designs for vertiport facilities in Abu Dhabi. Skyports envisions the Ajman partnership as a foundational element in establishing inter-emirate air taxi services, contributing to a connected network of vertiports across the UAE. This vision aligns with the General Civil Aviation Authority’s efforts to regulate and facilitate the development of vertiport infrastructure nationwide. Challenges and Industry Dynamics Despite the promising outlook, the development of air taxi infrastructure faces several challenges. Regulatory complexities, community acceptance, and the technical demands of infrastructure deployment remain significant hurdles. Market responses have been varied; while traditional aviation stakeholders have expressed skepticism, technology-oriented consumers have shown enthusiasm for the potential of electric air taxis. Competitors such as Wisk and Eve Air Mobility are also advancing their infrastructure projects and forging strategic partnerships to secure competitive advantages. Industry data indicates a strong market opportunity for electric air taxis, with companies actively competing to attract launch customers and expand their operational networks. For Ajman, the initiative supports its broader smart city ambitions and positions the emirate within the UAE’s national vision to become a global leader in urban air mobility. The partnership with Skyports promises to offer residents and visitors enhanced transportation options that reduce travel times and improve connectivity, reaffirming Ajman Transport Authority’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and future-ready mobility solutions.

Otto Aviation and Mecaer Collaborate on Advanced Flight Systems for Phantom 3500 Otto Aviation has entered into a strategic partnership with Mecaer Aviation Group to develop critical flight systems for its forthcoming Phantom 3500 aircraft. This collaboration focuses on the design and integration of the landing gear and primary flight control actuation system, underscoring Otto’s commitment to pioneering sustainable innovation and improving fuel efficiency in private aviation. Engineering Innovations Tailored to the Phantom 3500 Mecaer, a well-established aerospace systems provider with operations spanning Europe and North America, brings extensive expertise in flight control and landing gear technologies. Their proven ability to deliver compact, high-performance systems aligns closely with the Phantom 3500’s unique aerodynamic profile and sustainability-driven engineering. The Phantom 3500 incorporates advanced design features such as a laminar-flow fuselage and high-aspect-ratio wings, which necessitate landing gear that integrates seamlessly within the airframe while minimizing drag. Mecaer’s solution involves sophisticated retraction mechanisms and articulation kinematics engineered to conform to the aircraft’s tight contours. Both the main and nose landing gear will retract into compact, aerodynamically optimized bays, employing advanced multi-link geometries and shock absorption systems. This design approach maximizes space efficiency and preserves the aircraft’s sleek exterior lines, which are essential for reducing drag and enhancing fuel economy. Beyond the landing gear, Mecaer will also supply the primary flight control actuation system. This system is being developed with a focus on reducing weight, improving serviceability, and ensuring long-term reliability. It will incorporate built-in redundancies to enhance safety and provide precise control over all primary flight surfaces. Challenges and Market Context While the partnership with Mecaer significantly bolsters Otto Aviation’s technological capabilities, the company faces notable challenges as it progresses toward production. Securing adequate funding and managing the complexities of establishing a new manufacturing facility in Florida remain critical obstacles. Market responses to the Phantom 3500 have been mixed; some investors express optimism about the aircraft’s potential performance advantages, whereas others remain skeptical about the demand for a new entrant in the highly competitive business jet market. Established competitors such as Dassault Falcon and Cessna are likely to respond to Otto’s advancements with intensified marketing efforts or pricing strategies aimed at protecting their market share. Mecaer’s involvement not only strengthens Otto’s engineering credentials but may also attract increased scrutiny from these incumbent players. The Phantom 3500 is scheduled to commence flight testing in 2027, with entry into service anticipated by 2030. As Otto Aviation advances its development program, the partnership with Mecaer will be closely observed as a potential driver of innovation and disruption within the private aviation sector.

QT Aerospace Secures EASA Certification, Enhancing Global MRO Capabilities QT Aerospace has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part-145 Repair Station certification. This accreditation marks a pivotal advancement in the company’s international maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, complementing its existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part-145 credentials (ST1R492K). Based in Dallas, Texas, QT Aerospace is now authorized to fully service European-registered aircraft and components from its U.S. facility, thereby expanding its reach into the European aviation market. Expanding Services and Market Access With EASA certification, QT Aerospace aligns its operations with both FAA and EASA regulatory standards, enabling the company to offer comprehensive cross-border MRO solutions. This dual compliance is particularly advantageous for clients operating European-registered aircraft, as it facilitates seamless maintenance and repair services. QT Aerospace specializes in advanced composite and structural repairs, including work on flight control surfaces, engine inlets, cowls, and thrust reversers. The company’s emergency “quick-turn” services are designed to reduce aircraft downtime, a critical consideration for international operators requiring rapid turnaround. The Dallas facility is strategically equipped to support global operations, offering round-the-clock aircraft on ground (AOG) services. QT Aerospace can swiftly dispatch components or technical teams worldwide, enhancing service responsiveness and minimizing operational disruptions for its international clientele. Industry Context and Competitive Landscape QT Aerospace’s EASA certification arrives amid ongoing supply chain challenges within the aerospace sector. Industry leaders emphasize the importance of navigating these complexities as companies expand their European operations. The new accreditation is anticipated to attract heightened investor interest and may facilitate partnerships with emerging players in advanced air mobility, reflecting a broader trend toward collaboration and innovation in the industry. Competitors are expected to intensify efforts to secure similar regulatory approvals and accelerate technological advancements. For instance, companies like Elfly are developing electric seaplane prototypes under EASA oversight, underscoring a competitive drive toward innovation and compliance. Headquartered in Dallas, QT Aerospace is widely recognized for its expertise in airframe composite repair and its commitment to safety, quality, and innovation. As the company broadens its international footprint, it continues to establish new benchmarks in delivering high-quality MRO solutions to a diverse and expanding global customer base.

Expanding Aviation MRO Capabilities in Ireland The Importance of MRO in Commercial Aviation Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) represent a vital yet often overlooked segment of the commercial aviation industry. The global air travel system relies heavily on comprehensive MRO support to ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of aircraft operations. Given the complexity of modern aircraft, which are subject to stringent international regulatory standards, rigorous maintenance is essential throughout their operational lifespan. Airlines and leasing companies meticulously follow detailed maintenance schedules to uphold both safety and asset value, with aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A330 undergoing frequent, intensive inspections. Ireland’s Strategic Move into MRO Expansion Ireland, already recognized as a global leader in aircraft leasing, is now seeking to broaden its footprint in the aviation MRO sector. This strategic expansion aligns with projections that the global MRO market will reach $155 billion by 2034, driven by increasing air travel demand and ongoing fleet modernization efforts. Despite these promising prospects, Ireland faces significant challenges in scaling its MRO capabilities. Regulatory compliance remains a critical priority, with authorities demanding adherence to world-class standards. Furthermore, Ireland must compete with well-established MRO hubs across Europe and other regions, which have cultivated strong reputations and loyal client bases over many years. Challenges and Opportunities Ahead Supply chain resilience has emerged as a key concern, particularly in light of recent global disruptions that have exposed vulnerabilities in the procurement of parts and availability of skilled labor. To maintain competitiveness, Irish MRO providers may need to pursue strategic partnerships or invest in advanced technologies. This approach is exemplified by recent industry developments such as the establishment of a new MRO facility in Malta by Diamond Aircraft and Falcon Aviation Engineering. The growth of MRO capabilities in Ireland could prompt airlines and leasing companies to reconsider their maintenance strategies, potentially shifting operations to leverage emerging local expertise and capacity. Such shifts may also influence the broader global MRO landscape, encouraging other market participants to pursue their own expansions or collaborative ventures. As Ireland advances in this sector, its success will hinge on sustaining regulatory excellence, strengthening supply chains, and differentiating itself within a highly competitive environment. Achieving these objectives could further solidify Ireland’s status as a pivotal player in the global aviation industry.

15below Acquires Airport AI to Develop Unified Passenger Communications Platform 15below, a UK-based leader in automated passenger communications for airlines, has acquired Airport AI, a conversational artificial intelligence platform currently deployed at over 80 airports worldwide. The financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. This strategic acquisition is intended to create a unified communications solution that integrates airline and airport interactions, aiming to enhance the overall passenger experience. Enhancing Passenger Experience Through Integration The combined platform is designed to provide airports with improved visibility of passengers within terminals, enabling more responsive and efficient service delivery. By leveraging self-service customer support, the integration is expected to reduce both labor and operational costs. Airport AI’s technology, powered by advanced large language models, facilitates passenger inquiries through multiple channels including airport websites, mobile applications such as WhatsApp and WeChat, voice assistants, and airport kiosks. For airlines, the integration promises richer, more conversational, and context-aware interactions with passengers. This enhanced communication capability is anticipated to improve service quality and foster greater customer loyalty. Nicholas Key, CEO of 15below, emphasized the strategic fit between the two companies, noting that Airport AI’s innovative technology and vision align closely with 15below’s commitment to delivering seamless travel experiences. He described the partnership as a convergence of market leaders with deep expertise in airline and airport systems, poised to drive significant positive change across the travel industry. Pierre Cuquemelle, CEO of Airport AI, highlighted the traditional disconnect between airlines and airports in passenger communications. He stated that the collaboration with 15below lays the groundwork for a future where these entities work together more effectively to provide smarter services, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce travel-related stress for millions of passengers globally. Challenges and Industry Context Despite the promising outlook, integrating Airport AI’s technology into 15below’s existing platform presents notable challenges. Achieving seamless communication across diverse systems will be critical to the platform’s success. Additionally, both companies must address potential skepticism from passengers and industry stakeholders regarding the efficacy of a unified communications solution. This acquisition occurs amid intensifying competition within the travel sector for AI expertise. Major industry players such as Royal Caribbean, Universal Orlando, and Marriott are investing heavily in AI-driven solutions, which may prompt accelerated development of similar communication platforms by competitors. Last year, 15below secured a significant investment from LDC, the private equity division of Lloyds Banking Group, to support software development and client expansion as part of a five-year growth strategy. The acquisition of Airport AI represents a pivotal step in this plan, as 15below seeks to broaden its global presence and establish new standards for passenger communications in the travel industry.

Ryanair Executive Michael Cawley Discusses Technology and AI Strategy Pragmatic Approach to AI Integration Michael Cawley, Ryanair’s former chief financial officer and deputy CEO, who currently serves as an independent director, outlined the airline’s measured approach to adopting artificial intelligence (AI) during his address at Phocuswright Europe 2025. Emphasizing Ryanair’s disciplined cost management philosophy, Cawley stressed that the company will resist the allure of AI hype, instead prioritizing efficiency and practical applications. The airline plans to integrate AI across customer service, revenue management, and broader operational functions, maintaining a focus on tangible benefits rather than innovation for its own sake. Cawley traced this pragmatic mindset back to Ryanair’s early strategy, which was inspired by Southwest Airlines and centered on “relentless execution.” This philosophy continues to shape the airline’s technology investments, with a clear allocation of resources: 20% of the technology budget is dedicated to infrastructure and cybersecurity, 40% to dynamic pricing, and the remaining 40% to business transformation initiatives such as automated check-in systems. Challenges and Competitive Dynamics Despite the strategic clarity, Ryanair faces significant challenges in effectively integrating AI. The airline operates in a competitive environment marked by shifting market dynamics and investor skepticism regarding the profitability of AI investments. While some industry stakeholders view AI as essential for maintaining a competitive edge, others caution against overestimating its potential. Investors in travel startups, in particular, emphasize the importance of deploying AI to solve concrete industry problems rather than pursuing technology adoption for its own sake. Ryanair’s AI strategy is also under close scrutiny from competitors, many of whom are expected to implement similar AI-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency. This trend could intensify competition within the airline industry, potentially sparking a price war as carriers leverage technology to reduce costs and improve customer experience. Evolving Industry Relationships and Broader Risks Cawley also addressed Ryanair’s evolving relationship with online travel agencies (OTAs). After years of strained interactions, the airline has recently reached agreements with several major OTAs, though it remains focused on encouraging direct bookings. “We never hated OTAs. We hated their behavior,” Cawley remarked, highlighting Ryanair’s determination to maintain control over its customer relationships. The discussion further touched on the difficulties legacy carriers face when attempting to launch low-cost subsidiaries, as well as the broader risks posed by political interference. Cawley identified political interference as one of the most significant threats confronting the aviation sector today. As Ryanair advances its AI adoption strategy, its leadership remains committed to a cautious, results-oriented approach that balances technological progress with the airline’s enduring emphasis on cost discipline and operational excellence.