What strategies does Ryanair use to manage costs?

Ryanair effectively manages costs through minimal staff levels and fuel hedging, which are key components of their low-cost business model. By maintaining a lean workforce, the airline reduces labor costs significantly. This means fewer employees are needed to operate flights and manage day-to-day operations, allowing Ryanair to keep operational expenses low.

Fuel hedging is another critical strategy. By locking in fuel prices through financial instruments, Ryanair can protect itself from the volatility of fuel costs, which are a major expense for airlines. This practice enables more predictable financial planning and can lead to cost savings, especially when fuel prices are high.

The combination of these strategies contributes to Ryanair’s ability to offer lower fares while still maintaining profitability, making it a standout in the low-cost airline market. Other strategies, such as hiring excess staff or providing complimentary meals, would typically lead to increased operational expenses, which contradicts Ryanair’s low-cost philosophy.