Investigation into Ryanair's Seating Charges for Parents
Ryanair is currently under investigation by the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) regarding fees it charges parents to sit next to their children during flights.
The CMA highlighted that Ryanair's terms and conditions require a parent to sit with their child if the child is aged between two years and 11 years. This arrangement is facilitated through what Ryanair refers to as a "mandatory family seat," which parents must pay for.
The watchdog noted that this mandatory family seat typically costs around £8 each way. The CMA is examining whether Ryanair's "approach to seat reservations may mean parents are being charged for the airline to meet its child safety and disability‑related obligations as set out under aviation rules."
Ryanair has been contacted for comment regarding the investigation.
