Elon Musk Eyes Ryanair Purchase, Urges CEO Michael O’Leary’s Removal

The ongoing feud between Elon Musk and Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has escalated significantly. This dispute centers around O’Leary’s dismissal of SpaceX’s Starlink as a viable option for the airline. Recently, O’Leary stated that implementing Wi-Fi would add 2% drag to flights, increasing annual costs by up to $250 million.

Elon Musk’s Intervention

In response, Musk labeled O’Leary as “misinformed,” asserting that the airline risks losing customers without internet access. This disagreement quickly intensified. In a radio interview, O’Leary bluntly dismissed Musk, stating, “He’s an idiot. Very wealthy, but he’s still an idiot.”

The Financial Stakes

• O’Leary mentioned that passengers are unwilling to pay for Wi-Fi, emphasizing that if the service is free, it might be used.
• He pointed out that introducing Starlink would necessitate an aerial antenna costing significant money.
• The overall extra charge per passenger would be around $1, which Ryanair cannot afford.

Social Media Exchange

The back-and-forth extended onto social media platforms, with Musk provocatively suggesting, “Should I buy Ryanair and put someone whose actual name is Ryan in charge?” This comment drew humorous speculation online, with users calculating that a 50% premium could allow Musk to acquire Ryanair for approximately $53 billion—just a fraction of his net worth.

Industry Insights

Both Musk and O’Leary are known for their bold statements. O’Leary has effectively led the world’s most successful ultra-low-cost airline for years. While he may have his quirks, he is aware of market realities and passenger behavior. His skepticism about the demand for paid Wi-Fi holds weight, given Ryanair’s business model.

Potential Outcomes

Amid the escalating tensions, it remains to be seen how this feud will influence both figures. Speculation about Musk purchasing Ryanair could pose significant implications for O’Leary, who holds over 4% of the company’s shares. A sale at a premium would enhance his wealth substantially.

Conclusion

This feud highlights a classic clash of egos in the business world. Musk and O’Leary embody two contrasting approaches to leadership in the airline industry. As they continue to spar over Starlink, both could be reminded of the importance of collaboration over conflict in achieving operational success.