Ryanair faces consumer backlash over family seat fees

Ryanair’s policy that charges parents extra to sit next to their children on a designated "family seat" has drawn sharp criticism from consumer groups. In the United Kingdom, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is reviewing the practice, while German consumer advocates say legal action may be required.

The European consumer federation BEUC warns that such fees can add €80‑€200 for a typical four‑person family, with isolated cases reaching €300 and representing 30‑50% of the original ticket price. Ryanair argues the charge is linked to safety regulations that require an adult seat for children under twelve.

The controversy coincides with a delay in EU rules on full price transparency for airlines, which were intended to improve fare clarity but will not take effect before the next travel season.