'It won't happen again': Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary apologises over ‘rapists’ comments

Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary at the Ryanair AGM, at their offices in Dublin. Picture: PA

    Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary has "sincerely and unreservedly" apologised for describing rival airlines as “rapists” , and said it won't happen again.

The controversial chief executive of the budget airline caused uproar last week after describing Ryanair's competitors as "rapists" in terms of the high fares they charge.

Survivors of sexual abuse and advocacy groups were among those who spoke out.

Mr O'Leary had previously doubled down on his initial comments, made ahead of Ryanair's AGM on September 10, despite calls from Rachel Morrogh, CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, for him to apologise. He insisted the language he had used had "absolutely" been appropriate.