Ryanair still talking to Boeing over new Max jet order as Airbus waits in wings

RYANAIR remains in talks with Boeing about a possible new order for the jet maker’s troubled 737 Max aircraft, chief executive Michael O’Leary has confirmed.

But he told Bloomberg that the group could also buy aircraft from Airbus, if the European manufacturer cuts its prices and can come up with more attractive delivery slots.

Ryanair’s Vienna-based Lauda subsidiary already operates Airbus aircraft.

The 737 Max aircraft have been grounded for almost a year following two deadly crashes.

They’re not expected to be recertified to fly until mid-year in North America and probably a couple of months later in Europe.

Ryanair has ordered up to 210 of the Max 200 variant. Of the 450 Max aircraft that Boeing currently has manufactured and awaiting delivery, 20 are destined for Ryanair.

It had been due to take its first Max delivery last year. Ryanair executives met their Boeing counterparts in Chicago in January.

When Mr O’Leary spoke to analysts in early February, he said the airline was in talks about the Max 10 variant of the jet.

Yesterday, he said the talks are also regarding the Max 200. “If the price is right, we’ll buy aircraft,” Mr O’Leary told Bloomberg yesterday.

“I’m only interested in buying aircraft that will enable me to lower my operating costs. Airbus’ order book has been largely full and the pricing has been high for four or five years.”

The Ryanair chief has in the past capitalised on disruptive events such as the 9/11 terror attacks to place orders with Boeing that secured deep discounts to the list price of the aircraft.

Mr O’Leary said he understands that work to address final fixes required for regulators to approve the return of the Max to service should be completed by the end of April.