Ryanair Boosts 2026 Outlook as Travel Demand Surges and Boeing Deliveries Accelerate

Ryanair (RYAAY) has raised its Fiscal 2026 outlook, citing stronger travel demand, higher fares, and faster Boeing (BA) aircraft deliveries. The Irish budget carrier expects passenger traffic to rise 4% and sees profits trending higher than previously forecasted.

The updated guidance came alongside Ryanair’s third-quarter results, released earlier today. The company delivered mixed performance, with revenue rising 9% year‑on‑year, aided by high ancillary income and passenger traffic growth.

Meanwhile, net profit dropped 80% to €30.4 million after setting aside a €85 million provision related to a €256 million fine from Italy’s competition authority.

Passenger Growth and Fare Outlook

Here is Ryanair’s updated outlook for Fiscal 2026:

• The company lifted its passenger forecast to 208 million, up from the 207 million projected in November.
• Average fares are expected to exceed the 7% year‑on‑year growth previously guided. Also, early 2026 bookings are trending ahead of last year.
• The airline is “cautiously guiding” for full-year profit after tax (excluding exceptional items) in the range of €2.13 billion to €2.23 billion, compared with €1.61 billion last year.

Boost from Boeing Deliveries

The optimistic outlook comes as improved Boeing aircraft deliveries have eased capacity constraints for Ryanair, allowing the airline to expand routes and increase traffic. Ryanair expects to receive the final four 737‑8200 aircraft by the end of February, enabling it to target 216 million passengers in 2027.

Looking ahead, Boeing is confident about delivering its first MAX‑10 jets in the spring of 2027, with 300 units scheduled for delivery by March 2034.

Is Ryanair a Good Stock to Buy Now?

Turning to Wall Street, RYAAY stock has a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on one Buy assigned in the last three months. DBS analyst Tabitha Foo has set a price target of $39.03, which implies 45% downside risk from the current level.