The dispute is between two people with huge egos, describes the story ZDF. Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary does not want Wi-Fi on his planes and rejects the use of Elon Musk's "Starlink" technology. In an interview, he also made personal insults to the billionaire, whom he called "idiot". "He is very rich, but he is still an idiot", O'Leary said in an interview with the Irish radio "Newstalk".
In addition, O'Leary said that Musk had no idea about aviation. And Musk naturally did not remain indebted to him. On his X platform, he in turn called O'Leary a "complete idiot" and called for his dismissal.
The dispute is about money
However, behind the insults lies a dispute about money, the German public media notes - as Ryanair fears high costs if it provides internet on board. In front of the "Reuters" agency, O'Leary suggests that it could be up to $250 million a year, which the low-cost airline could not afford.
In addition, Ryanair's flights last only an hour on average and O'Leary doubts that customers will want to pay for internet for such short segments. That is, the business model is not suitable for a low-cost company.
The technique is also subject to controversy - since the use of "Starlink" requires the installation of special antennas on airplanes, which would increase resistance, respectively, more fuel will be needed. Musk and "Starlink" refute this claim and note that the antennas are completely flat and there will be almost no need for more fuel.
Musk and his threat to buy Ryanair
As part of the dispute, Musk launched a special poll on the X platform with the question: "Should I buy Ryanair?". Almost a million people have already participated in the poll, most of whom said "yes". The stock markets reacted immediately, and Ryanair shares rose by 2.5 percent.
Apparently, some investors believe that Musk really has such plans. But Ryanair's price will not be particularly low - the stock market value of the Irish airline is currently around 30 billion euros.
What is "Starlink"
"Starlink" is a satellite internet service from SpaceX. The system uses thousands of small satellites at low altitudes above the ground to provide fast and stable internet anywhere in the world. Users need a special antenna and router to connect to the network.
As reported by ZDF, other airlines are in a different position than Ryanair and are currently equipping their planes with the system. Lufthansa plans to offer "Starlink" from the end of 2026, Qatar Airways is also betting on technology and wants to offer its customers fast internet.
Author: Waid Darvi