Ryanair(RYAAY) ZACKS·2025-01-28 19:05Core Insights - Ryanair Holdings plc reported third-quarter fiscal 2025 results with earnings per share (EPS) of 29 cents, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 9 cents, and showing year-over-year improvement [1] - Revenues reached 2.94 billion, driven by strong Christmas/New Year bookings [2] - Profit after tax increased significantly to €149 million from €15 million in the same quarter last year [2] Financial Performance - Traffic grew by 9% year over year, despite Boeing delivery delays, with average fares increasing by 1% [2][3] - Load factor remained stable at 92%, indicating consistent passenger demand [3] - Operating costs rose by 8% year over year to €2.93 billion, attributed to higher staff and other costs, partially offset by fuel hedge savings [3] Shareholder Returns - Ryanair has completed over 50% of its €800 million buyback program, expected to be completed by mid-2025, returning nearly €9 billion to shareholders since 2008 [4] - An interim dividend of €0.223 per share is scheduled for payment on February 26, 2025 [4] Future Outlook - The company anticipates fiscal 2025 traffic to reach nearly 200 million passengers, an increase from the previous estimate of 198-200 million passengers [5] Market Position - Ryanair currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) and has seen a 16% increase in share price over the past six months, compared to the industry’s 26.7% rise [6]