Italy Looks Into Claims Of Ryanair Breaching Competition Rules

Ryanair is facing an antitrust probe over accusations that it took unfair advantage of its market dominance in Italy, as reported by Eleanor Butler for Il Messaggero newspaper.

Ryanair allegedly prohibited tour operators from accessing its offers and discounts on its website on several occasions, potentially forcing these firms to offer higher prices. I Photo: Ryanair

The Italian antitrust regulator, expected to publish a decision later today, is investigating whether Ryanair acted in a manner that caused "serious and irreparable" damages to other travel agencies, airlines, and passengers, Eleanor Butler also reported for Euronews.

The authority has claimed that Ryanair didn’t allow tour operators to access its offers and discounts on its website on several occasions, potentially forcing these firms to offer higher prices.

In response to the claims, Ryanair has pointed to an earlier ruling from the Milan Court of Appeal.

In February, after online travel agents including Lastminute.com and Viaggiare accused Ryanair of engaging in uncompetitive practices, the court ruled that the airline’s model was "justified" and beneficial to consumers.