Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary could secure a €100M bonus as shares stay above €21 for 28 days, despite backlash over fees and service quality.
Michael O’Leary, the long-serving CEO of Ryanair, could soon qualify for a substantial €100 million bonus if the airline’s share price maintains its current upward trajectory. The budget carrier’s stock must remain at or above €21 for 28 consecutive days to trigger the payout. As of recent trading, shares were valued at €23.8, having surpassed the threshold since early May.
O’Leary, who has led Ryanair since 1994, defended the potential windfall, comparing his compensation to the high salaries of top-tier football managers and players. "We’re delivering exceptional value for shareholders," he stated in a recent interview. His contract stipulates that the bonus would only be paid in 2028, contingent on his continued tenure with the company.
The bonus clause was initially introduced in 2019 and later extended in 2022 when O’Leary renewed his contract for an additional five and a half years. Under his leadership, Ryanair has grown into one of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines, contributing to his estimated net worth of €1 billion.
Despite its financial success, Ryanair has faced criticism over service quality, including complaints about boarding procedures, cabin conditions, and additional fees for services like seat selection and carry-on luggage. The airline recently announced a 5% to 6% fare increase for 2025, citing the need to offset lower profitability from discounted tickets.
Regulatory scrutiny has also intensified, with Spain imposing fines on Ryanair and other budget carriers for alleged consumer rights violations. Corporate governance concerns, including board diversity and transparency, have further fueled debate over O’Leary’s compensation.
Analysts note that Ryanair’s €750 million share buyback program may help sustain the stock price above the required threshold, potentially securing O’Leary’s bonus. The company has yet to comment publicly on these developments.
