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Ryanair's cost-cutting seat features explained

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Ryanair's cost-cutting seat features explained
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Neil Sorahan Ryanair's Group Chief Financial Officer | Ryanair Group

Ryanair, a pioneer of the ultra-low-cost airline model, focuses on reducing operational costs to offer significantly cheaper fares than full-service carriers. While low-cost carriers in the United States might provide tickets that are 10-20% less expensive than their full-service counterparts, Ryanair routinely offers prices at less than a third of those charged by network carriers.

The airline achieves this cost advantage through meticulous evaluation of each route and careful management of all operational elements. This approach has made Ryanair a model for others worldwide to replicate.

One well-known strategy is Ryanair's preference for smaller tertiary and secondary airports located far from city centers, which typically have lower operating costs. For instance, instead of using London City Airport (LCY) or London Heathrow Airport (LHR), Ryanair operates out of London Stansted Airport (STN).

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There are also several less obvious methods Ryanair employs to reduce costs. The carrier makes bulk purchases to secure discounts and hires pilots and flight attendants early in their careers who command lower wages. Additionally, it limits passenger baggage by charging high fees for anything beyond a small personal item.

Within the aircraft cabins themselves, there are subtle features designed to cut costs:

1. **Non-reclining seats**: Ryanair's seats do not recline, which reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts.

2. **No seatback pockets**: Eliminating seatback pockets simplifies cleaning and lowers installation costs for new aircraft seats.

3. **Safety information on seats**: Instead of traditional leaflets, safety information is displayed directly on the back of seats, eliminating printing and replacement expenses.

4. **Fixed armrests**: Non-movable armrests reduce manufacturing costs and allow for maximum seating capacity within the aircraft.

5. **Non-adjustable headrests**: By removing adjustable headrests, Ryanair further cuts down on purchase and maintenance expenses.

Organizations Included in this History
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