Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary urges ban on early‑morning airport alcohol sales

Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has called for a prohibition on the sale of alcoholic drinks in airport terminals during the early‑morning hours, typically 5 a.m. to 6 a.m. He argues that passengers who become intoxicated before boarding increase the risk of disruptive or dangerous behaviour on flights. O'Leary also suggested limiting each passenger to two alcoholic drinks, tracked through the boarding pass, to further curb excess consumption.

The proposal has sparked a debate. Addiction and mental‑health experts support the ban, citing heightened vulnerability to alcohol misuse in high‑stress travel environments. Opponents, including Wetherspoon founder Tim Martin, contend that existing licensing controls and the presence of food and non‑alcoholic options mitigate risks, and that a ban would merely shift drinking to other venues such as supermarkets before passengers enter the departure lounge. No regulatory decision has been made yet, but the discussion highlights tension between airline safety concerns and commercial interests in airport concession services.