Ryanair gambles on free flights
November 3, 2005
Ryanair has announced that in the future it hopes to offer all passengers free flights by launching in-flight gambling services.
Europe's largest low-cost airline is currently seeking a business partner for the service, which would offer passengers the chance to play electronic versions of popular casino games such as Poker and Blackjack.
No firm details of the service have been released, but Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary is confident that the service will be launched by spring 2007.
If the gambling service proves a success, Mr O'Leary believes that the airline will eventually give tickets away for free, drawing all their revenues from their in-flight services.
"Ultimately entertainment will be where the money is," he said.
He rejected criticisms that introducing gambling on flights would dissuade families from flying with the airline.
"If you don't want to do it, don't worry, someone else will take your seat," he added.
The new service is part of Ryanair's ongoing quest to introduce additional inflight services. Last year, it introduced an inflight pay-per-view film and TV programmes, but this was eventually scrapped due to low take up.
It is aiming to begin trials of on-board mobile phone use early next year.
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