Italian ministers furious over Ryanair advert

Low-cost airline Ryanair has flown into a new publicity storm by using a photo of a controversial and outspoken Italian politician to promote its flights.

Italian newspapers today published angry reactions by the government to the advert displaying an old photo of Reforms minister Umberto Bossi showing his middle finger during a speech.

The advert’s text suggests the gesture is directed at Italian passengers, who allegedly suffer high ticket fares and strikes because the government continues to support failing state carrier Alitalia.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Altero Matteoli called the advert “vulgar and offensive” and is demanding an apology from the Irish carrier.

The promotional image could still be seen today on the home page of Ryanair’s Italian website.