If O’Leary ran the Government, the nation would be flying high

DID you happen to see Michael O’Leary on the Late Late show last week?

Friday night is normally my David Cameron “date night”. The missus had gone out on a deferred teachers’ Christmas night out, so I watched the first part, before switching to Graham Norton. Ryanair’s CEO gave a tour de force performance. The success story that is Ryanair has not been properly acknowledged or applauded. He has been at the helm since 1994. Passenger numbers totalled 72m in 2010 and 76.4m last year. This compares to British Airways’ 30m passengers and Aer Lingus’ 9.3m annual throughput.

He aims to attain 80m this year and 100m travellers in the next few years. The PLC’s balance sheet is equally impressive. For the third-quarter of 2012 up to the end of September, there were three month profits of €250m on sales of €991m. Despite rising fuel prices and volcanic ash plumes, the airline continues its relentless achievements of growth and profitability. He typically missed no PR opportunity to reinforce why Ryanair gains market share. Price and punctuality are key attractions. Beneath his abrasive style, core values and principles apply to his management style. Foremost is pursuit of efficiency and productivity. A new aeroplane costs €70m, so he wants it to earn revenue for maximum hours per day (6am to 11pm).