Ryanair offers Prague a base and over 2million passengers p.a. as CSA moves closer to bankruptcy

Ryanair, the world’s favourite airline, today (3rd Mar) confirmed that it had presented Prague Airport with a proposal to base 6 aircraft, operate 33 international routes and deliver over 2m passengers p.a. which would create 2,000 local jobs if the airport reduces its high charges.

Ryanair sent the proposal to Prague Airport after CSA moved closer to bankruptcy by using its entire fleet as collateral against bank loans which it requires simply to maintain its operations. Ryanair said that it would fill any void left by a collapse in CSA if Prague airport reduced their high airport charges to become more competitive with other, lower cost, destinations and in return for guaranteed Ryanair passenger growth.

Ryanair’s Stephen McNamara, said:

“Ryanair has sent a proposal to Prague Airport which can help protect it from any collapse at CSA, which now seems increasingly likely after it was forced to use its entire fleet as collateral against loans it has taken out just to continue operations.

Ryanair can base 6 aircraft in Prague, operate 33 international routes and deliver over 2m passengers p.a., which would create or sustain up to 2,000 jobs and ensure Prague’s connectivity, if the airport reduces its high costs.

Prague has become a high cost destination in recent years and with other European Governments and Airports reducing charges, in some case to zero, and in order to stimulate tourism the management of Prague Airport must become more competitive. Ryanair looks forward to discussing our offer to guarantee passenger growth at Prague in return for a reduction in airport charges, thereby ensuring the future of the airport.”

Ryanair press release 3/03/2010