Jet2 and Flybe Hit Back At Ryanair Boss O'Leary

Michael O'Leary, the outspoken boss of Ryanair, has angered competitors by saying that he thinks the fuel crisis is a good thing for consumers, and will shut down 'crappy competitors'. He was referring to Jet2, Flybe, Flyglobespan, Sky Europe and Vueling.

O'Leary made the comments during the company's financial results statement on Tuesday. He predicted that only Easyjet, Ryanair, BA, Air France and Lufthansa would either break even or make a profit this year.

In response to these comments, Flybe issued a statement saying the following: 'We note with indifference the latest rantings of Mr O'Leary and notes his usual attempt to deflect attention from his own results by making unsubstantiated accusations about other issues. Flybe also notes that Mr O’Leary tried exactly the same tactic in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.'

It added: 'Flybe's fuel costs are only 24.6% of its total cost base at today's prices, while Ryanair's are 44.5%. While Mr O'Leary expects to break even only at $130 a barrel we believe that fuel will have to be well over $170 a barrel before Flybe is forced to breakeven.'

Jet2 boss Philip Meeson replied in a statement: 'It won't be Jet2. I'm sorry Mr O'Leary – unlike you, Jet2.com has bought all its fuel for this summer, this coming winter and next summer at attractive rates. Our passengers can rely upon us for many, many years to come.'