Ryanair chief urged to apologise after rape comment during jibe at rival airlines
- Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary has faced widespread criticism after describing rival airlines as high-fare rapists during a briefing in Dublin.
- O’Leary defended his language when challenged by reporters, stating that he was happy to offend competitors including BA, Lufthansa, and Aer Lingus.
- Dublin Rape Crisis Centre chief executive Rachel Morrogh accused O’Leary of trivialising sexual violence and offering soundbites without regard for rape survivors.
- Politicians and victims’ advocates called on the airline boss to apologise, describing his comments as callous, offensive, and re-traumatising.
- During the same event, O’Leary also reiterated calls for the chief executive of National Air Traffic Services to be sacked over recent flight disruptions.
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