Core Viewpoint - Ryanair is contesting a €256 million ($280 million) fine imposed by the Italian Competition Authority (AGCM), arguing that it contradicts a Milan Court ruling that supports its direct distribution model as beneficial for consumers [2][5]. Regulatory and Legal Context - The AGCM's fine is based on allegations of Ryanair abusing its market power by restricting travel agencies' access to its services, despite Ryanair holding just over 30% of the Italian market, which does not indicate dominance [3]. - The AGCM's market definition is criticized for being too narrow, excluding long-haul flights and other transport options, which undermines the ruling's foundation [3]. - Ryanair's agreements with approved online travel agents (OTAs) are acknowledged by the AGCM as compliant with competition law, allowing cost-free access to fares and preventing consumer overcharging, which raises questions about the rationale behind the fine [4]. Appeal and Market Performance - Ryanair plans to appeal the AGCM's ruling, citing strong grounds based on the Milan Court's findings and its history of passing cost savings to consumers through lower fares [5]. - The company's shares have increased by 28.2% over the past three months, outperforming the Transportation - Airline industry's rise of 21.5% [6].