The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating Ryanair’s seating policy for families travelling with children. Multiple outlets report that the CMA is examining whether the airline’s contract terms and pricing approach comply with consumer and competition law, including whether the charges operate as an unfair contract term or involve “hidden charges.”
According to the reports, Ryanair’s terms require at least one parent or accompanying adult to reserve a seat next to a child, including for children with disabilities. The cost is described as typically around £8 per flight segment (“each way”) for that reserved seat.
Ryanair has disputed the CMA’s concerns. The airline argues it does not charge children to sit beside a parent, saying adults pay for one reserved seat and can select seats next to it for up to four children on the same booking free of charge. It also references operational and safety requirements, including rules for children under 12 and how infants must sit.
The CMA’s investigation is ongoing and focuses on whether the policy and associated fees are legal under UK consumer rules.
