
Michael O'Leary on lockdowns: "Media puts pressure on politics"
Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary is concerned about the new lockdown in Austria, because he fears that it will once again have a negative impact on demand. He also criticises the fact that the media is putting increasing pressure on politicians over the Corona issue. During an online conference held by Eurocontrol, the manager said that the recovery of European aviation had been "disrupted" by the lockdown in Austria and the partial lockdown in the Netherlands. In Germany in particular, he sees potential customers getting nervous. This is spilling over to the whole of Europe: "Europe is getting very nervous". The Christmas season is generally considered to be a particularly busy time for travel. Michael O'Leary is concerned that this year it could be particularly complicated or even fall through, because he fears that new travel restrictions could be imposed very soon. Many potential holidaymakers and customers of airlines are apparently also concerned, because booking figures have taken a hit in many markets, especially in Austria, for almost all providers. But Michael O'Leary also believes that governments are allowing themselves to be pressured by media reports and are panicking. He appeals to everyone to keep a cool head and act carefully and purposefully. O'Leary also said that Covid vaccinations would enable safe travel. Unsurprisingly, the Ryanair boss is against new, tough travel restrictions.