Ryanair still has “a long way to go” in convincing business travellers that it’s a viable airline for their travel needs, according to the GTMC.
Earlier this month the no-frills airline confirmed it aims to target business travellers with a new product that will enable passengers to access flexible tickets, reserved seating and fast-track through selected airports.
Ryanair’s new head of groups and corporate travel, Lesley Kane, also told BBT the airline is ready to engage with GDSs, as it looks to strengthen its position in the corporate market.
The GTMC said Ryanair’s plans to target business travellers is a “step forward” but said "more is required” in order to build confidence within the sector.
“Ryanair has a long way to go in convincing business travellers that it is a viable airline for their needs,” said GTMC chief executive, Paul Wait. “There are key challenges to address such as the destination mix, this needs to improve in order for Ryanair to be a real contender in the business travel market.
“However, in a short space of time they have made steps in the right direction to demonstrate they are putting their money where their mouth is.”
Wait said Ryanair’s reputation of dismissing the business travel market means it will be harder for the airline to convince travellers it’s serious about entering this market.
“Ryanair’s biggest job is convincing the GTMC’s members that it is more than losses that are forcing them to address the business travel sector.
“We need to see and feel that they want to be a strong partner to the community, are engaged in our needs and understand our concerns.”