UK Airline to Implement In-Air Online Gambling
Ryanair announced Tuesday that the British discount airline has plans to add online gambling services for passengers enroute. Michael O'Leary, CEO of the carrier, says the airline is moving to eliminate checked luggage and airport check-ins, as well as add Internet gaming to entertain patrons.
Ryanair operates mostly in Great Britain and Ireland, with flights to Germany, Amsterdam, and an assortment of Mediterranean cities. The airline specializes in discount traveling, similar to Southwest or Jet Blue in the US.
Most of O'Leary's plans are designed to cut costs and improve efficiency. Having customers carry their luggage to terminals, at which point it can be loaded directly to cargo bins, would reduce staff requirements and speed up operations.
But Internet gambling would be used as an attraction to draw customers otherwise put off by Ryanair's fees, including charges to use onboard restroom facilities. The airline has a reputation for creative promotions, having published a calendar featuring female employees in skimpy outfits, and run commercials starring a sexy girl in schoolgirl outfit.
Specific plans for the gaming system have not been revealed. Ryanair may look at partnership with one of the successful online casino operators in Europe, hoping to create new revenues while finding new customers.
