Ryanair has reversed its controversial policy of charging parents to sit with their young children, bowing to pressure from consumer groups and families across Britain. The budget airline had introduced a fee last year that forced families to pay extra to ensure seats together, a move widely condemned as a tax on parents. But following a sustained campaign by organisations including Which?
and the Civil Aviation Authority, Ryanair has now confirmed it will scrap the charge for children under 12. The change means families will be able to sit together without additional cost when booking flights, a relief for millions of parents who faced the anxiety of having young children seated separately. Consumer groups have welcomed the decision, calling it a victory for common sense.
'This was a stealth tax on families that added unnecessary stress to holidays. Ryanair has finally listened to the public,' said a spokesperson for Which?. The airline said it had reviewed its policy after feedback from customers and would now automatically allocate adjacent seats for adults and children.
The reversal comes as the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets, with families increasingly struggling with holiday expenses. For many, the extra charge was the final straw on already tight budgets. The change applies to all flights and will be implemented immediately.
Ryanair's move sets a precedent for other budget carriers, which have faced similar criticism. Campaigners are now calling for legislation to guarantee families free seating on all airlines.
