Musk hints at Ryanair takeover after public clash with airline boss
Tech billionaire Elon Musk has sparked fresh debate in the aviation and business world after suggesting he could buy European budget airline Ryanair, following a heated online exchange with the company’s outspoken chief executive, Michael O’Leary.
The comments emerged after Ryanair rejected Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service for its aircraft, with O’Leary arguing that the technology would be too costly and inefficient for the airline’s short-haul operations. The rejection prompted a sharp response from Musk on his social media platform, X, where he criticised O’Leary and jokingly floated the idea of acquiring the airline.
In a post that quickly went viral, Musk asked his followers whether he should buy Ryanair, further fueling speculation about his intentions. While many viewed the comments as tongue-in-cheek, they attracted widespread attention given Musk’s history of surprise takeovers and disruptive business moves.
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Responding to the remarks, O’Leary downplayed the likelihood of a takeover, pointing out that European Union regulations restrict non-EU ownership of EU-based airlines, making a full acquisition highly unlikely. However, he said Ryanair would welcome Musk as an investor, adding a dose of humour to the public spat.
Analysts say the episode highlights how high-profile social media exchanges can quickly spill into serious business conversations, even if no formal bid is expected. Ryanair’s shares showed little reaction, suggesting investors see the exchange largely as publicity rather than a credible takeover attempt.
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For now, Musk has made no formal move toward acquiring the airline, leaving the episode as another example of how online disputes between influential figures can dominate global headlines.
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