Italy’s competition authority, the AGCM, has imposed a fine of over 255 million euros ($300 million) on low-cost airline Ryanair for allegedly abusing its dominant position in the market. The AGCM claims that Ryanair employed an “abusive strategy” between 2023 and at least April 2025, which hindered travel agencies’ ability to access its services and combine Ryanair flights with other airlines’ offerings.
According to the AGCM, Ryanair’s strategy made it difficult for travel agencies to purchase flights on the airline’s website, whether individually or in combination with other services, such as flights from other airlines or travel insurance. This approach, the AGCM argues, aimed to block or complicate travel agencies’ efforts to buy Ryanair flights, thereby reducing competition between agencies.
The fine is the latest in a series of regulatory actions taken against major companies in Italy. Just a day earlier, the AGCM fined US tech giant Apple 98 million euros for allegedly abusing its dominant position in the mobile app market. The AGCM’s decision against Ryanair underscores the authority’s commitment to promoting fair competition and protecting consumer interests.
This is not the first time Ryanair has faced regulatory scrutiny in Italy. In 2019, the airline was fined three million euros for its policy of charging passengers for cabin baggage, although the fine was later overturned by an administrative court.
The AGCM’s decision against Ryanair may have significant implications for the airline industry, as it highlights the importance of ensuring fair access to services and promoting competition. The fine also serves as a reminder to companies of the need to comply with antitrust regulations and respect the rights of consumers and competitors.
The development comes as regulators worldwide increasingly focus on promoting competition and addressing anti-competitive practices in various industries. As the airline industry continues to evolve, regulators will likely remain vigilant in monitoring companies’ behavior and taking enforcement action when necessary to protect consumers and promote fair competition.
