Ryanair slips into loss in 3Q FY2014 on average fare weakness, but hints at a more stable outlook

Ryanair's 3QFY2014 saw it slip into loss, dragging its 9MFY2014 net profit down by almost 8%, mainly because of a 9% drop in its 3Q average fares. However, this yield decline was in line with Ryanair's guidance and the carrier says that market pricing is no longer declining. Moreover, it reiterated FY2014 guidance for net profit between EUR500 million and EUR520 million. While this is below the EUR569 million net profit recorded in the previous year, the re-confirmed target allayed the fears of some that Ryanair would once again lower its guidance.

As the start of deliveries in Sep-2014 under Ryanair's new Boeing order approaches, the airline remains committed to its passenger growth targets. In addition to its core attraction of offering the lowest average fares in the European short haul market, Ryanair is aiming to enhance its appeal through a series of customer service and distribution initiatives. In spite of a likely dip in profits this year, if it can achieve its passenger targets without further heavy yield declines, it should retain its position as Europe's most profitable airline.