Ryanair. Photo: Shutterstock The low-cost airline Ryanair continues its battle against unauthorized online travel agencies (OTAs), claiming they charge passengers excessive prices — sometimes up to 66% more than the prices listed on its official site.
In a May survey released today (Tuesday), Ryanair presents current findings indicating significant price discrepancies between agencies like Tix, Vola, and eDreams compared to original prices.
Survey Examples: Significant Price Gaps
According to Ryanair's survey, Tix charges €14.97 for a seat priced at just €9.00 on Ryanair’s site — a difference of 66%.
Vola charges €14.00 for the same seat — 56% more than the official price, and €15.50 for Priority service compared to €10.50 on the site — a gap of 48%.
eDreams, on its part, charges €11.92 for a seat officially priced at €8.00 — a difference of 49%, and €31.99 for a 10kg bag compared to €25.99 on the site.
Call to Action from the European Union
Ryanair reiterates its appeal to European Union authorities and government agencies to take clear steps against non-transparent pricing policies.
It argues that unauthorized agencies harm consumers without adequate government oversight, while Ryanair itself operates with "Approved OTA" partners under full transparency conditions.
Direct Criticism: "Ineffective Ministers"
Company spokesman, Dara Brady, stated: "Our May survey highlights how unauthorized online travel agencies like Vola, Tix, and eDreams continue to harm unsuspecting consumers by charging unjustified price increments of up to 66% above Ryanair prices. Unfortunately, uninformed and ineffective consumer ministers, like Spain's consumer minister Pablo Bustinduy, continue to turn a blind eye to this ongoing consumer detriment. These unauthorized agencies routinely inflate seating and baggage fees without providing transparency or accountability. We urge EU governments, ineffective ministers like Bustinduy, and consumer protection agencies to urgently act against these overcharging agencies that cause real harm to the public."
The company advises travelers to avoid booking tickets and services through unauthorized agencies and to prefer the company's website or its official partners only.