Ryanair CEO warns European airfares could soar by up to 20% in 2027
Airfares could see a historic increase next year. Michael O’Leary points to soaring jet fuel costs and the expiry of contracts that still protect airlines. This is a worrying prospect for families who regularly travel between Europe and Morocco.
A family’s €1,000 budget for airline tickets could rise to €1,200 with a 20% increase. That is the scenario outlined by Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary at a press conference held on Tuesday, October 20, in Brussels.
On Bladi.net : Flights to Morocco: tickets could increase by another 10% in 2027
“You’re going to see airfares go up next year in Europe by 10, 15, maybe 20%,” the executive said, according to Reuters. He expects “the biggest increase in airfares in history” in the European market over the next twelve months.
The forecast directly affects airlines connecting France, Belgium, the Netherlands or Spain with Morocco. Prices on these routes will depend on cost trends, but also on competition between carriers.
The main factor is jet fuel. According to figures from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), cited by Euronews, its average price in Europe and the CIS reached 207.61 dollars per barrel in the week ending October 16. That is a surge of nearly 128% in a year.
Why prices could soar in the spring
Until March 2027, Ryanair has contracts guaranteeing it a price of about 67 dollars per barrel for 80% of its fuel needs. That protection will diminish considerably from April.
For its following financial year, the airline has secured only 15% of its fuel purchases, at around 85 dollars per barrel. The remaining 85% will be exposed to market fluctuations. Other European carriers are in a similar position, according to Michael O’Leary.
The executive also expects the number of seats available in Europe to fall as airlines go bankrupt or are acquired. A more limited supply could add to the upward pressure on fares.
In Belgium, Ryanair has just announced the cancellation of 20 routes and 1.1 million seats from its winter 2026-2027 schedule, partly in response to an increase in the air travel tax. The cuts affect Brussels and Charleroi, two airports used by travelers heading to Morocco.
At the same time, Ryanair continues to prioritize the Moroccan market as it expands its network. The airline has announced new routes to Tangier and Marrakech for summer 2027. Travelers will learn the fares for these flights as bookings open.
