Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary apologises over rape remark

Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary apologised on Friday to sexual violence survivors for comparing competing airlines to “rapists” over their fares.

In an online video, O'Leary said he “sincerely and unreservedly” apologised for the comment, which he made last week.

“I have come to realise, however, that the word I used so carelessly has caused considerable upset and offence to a wide number of people, especially victims and survivors,” he said.

O'Leary had previously refused to apologise after criticism from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, saying his comparison was “absolutely” appropriate and that he had not trivialised rape.

UK transport minister Heidi Alexander had criticised the remark on LBC radio, saying women who had been raped or subjected to such violence were unlikely to rush to book tickets with him. Ireland's deputy premier also condemned the comment.