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Michael O'Leary Promises To 'Undress' Elon Musk's Tantrum On X As Ryanair Launches Sale: Airline Wonders If Tesla CEO Needs A 'Break' - Ryanair Hldgs (NASDAQ:RYAAY), Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA)
Benzinga· 2026-01-21 03:55
Core Viewpoint - Ryanair is leveraging its public disputes with Elon Musk as a marketing opportunity, with CEO Michael O'Leary planning a press conference to address Musk's recent comments on social media [1][2]. Group 1: Marketing Strategy - The airline announced a promotional event called the "Great Idiots" seat sale, offering 100,000 seats at €16.99 one way, targeting Musk and others on social media [3]. - O'Leary criticized Musk's knowledge of the aviation industry, suggesting that Musk is uninformed about airline ownership rules and aircraft aerodynamics [2]. Group 2: Social Media Engagement - Musk initiated a poll on social media asking if he should acquire Ryanair, with 76.5% of respondents in favor, although it is uncertain if he is serious about the acquisition [4]. - The interaction between Musk and O'Leary has included Musk calling O'Leary "an utter idiot" for rejecting the idea of installing Starlink internet devices on Ryanair's aircraft [3]. Group 3: Stock Performance - Ryanair's shares increased by 1.79% on Tuesday, closing at $69.50, and saw a further rise of 3.44% overnight, indicating strong momentum and value in the stock market [5].
Elon Musk Calls Ryanair CEO 'An Utter Idiot,' Floats Buying the Company
Yahoo Finance· 2026-01-17 17:16
Core Viewpoint - Elon Musk is considering acquiring Ryanair Holdings plc after a public disagreement with Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary regarding the implementation of Starlink internet devices on Ryanair's aircraft, highlighting the importance of in-flight connectivity in the aviation industry [1][2][3]. Group 1: Disagreement and Acquisition Consideration - The feud began when O'Leary dismissed the idea of adding Starlink devices, citing that it could cost the airline $250 million annually due to increased fuel costs from the added weight and drag [1]. - Musk responded by criticizing O'Leary and suggested he should be replaced, questioning whether he should buy Ryanair and appoint a CEO named Ryan [2]. - The online discussion gained traction, with many users encouraging Musk to proceed with the acquisition, indicating public interest in the potential change [2][3]. Group 2: Importance of In-Flight Connectivity - Musk emphasized that in-flight internet is becoming a necessity for airlines, warning that those like Ryanair, which do not offer such services, risk losing customers [2][3]. - The situation underscores the evolving expectations of air travelers regarding connectivity and the competitive landscape of the aviation industry [3]. - The potential costs associated with installing internet devices on aircraft are a significant consideration for airlines aiming to enhance customer experience [4].