Ryanair issues security ultimatum to British govt

Ryanair has issued an ultimatum to the British government over the security restrictions imposed following last week's anti-terrorism operation.

The no-free-frills airline said today that it would sue for compensation unless security levels were returned to normal within the next seven days.

The airline says it is entitled to compensation under transport legislation, but will not seek any if its demands are met.

Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary says the restrictions are "nonsensical" and the best way to defeat terrorists is for ordinary people to continue their lives as normal.