Ryanair chief expects Europe's biggest-ever airfare increase next year

Michael O'Leary, chief executive of the low-cost airline Ryanair, said on Tuesday that Europe should expect next year the most significant air ticket price increase in its history. For travellers, this suggests that the cost of flying within Europe could rise noticeably.

O'Leary made the forecast as head of a company in the low-cost segment, which offers cheaper flights than traditional carriers in Europe.

The information available does not specify the size of the expected increase, the reasons behind it, or which routes and countries it would affect. It also does not say by what percentage fares might rise.