Michael O'Leary and Rachel Reeves
Photo by PA / GB News

Rachel Reeves Humiliated as Ryanair Boss Slams Heathrow Third Runway Plan as a ‘Dead Cow’

Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary has launched a fierce attack on Chancellor Rachel Reeves, criticizing her plans to construct a third runway at Heathrow Airport and the ongoing increases in Air Passenger Duty (APD). The outspoken airline tycoon voiced his frustrations during a heated press conference following Reeves’ growth speech in Oxfordshire.

O’Leary, known for his blunt demeanor, lambasted Reeves for what he described as her lack of understanding regarding the British economy. “The Chancellor has ‘hasn’t a clue’ about how to kickstart the British economy,” he asserted, highlighting his belief that her policies are detrimental to the nation’s financial growth, reported by the Express.

Addressing the controversial Heathrow expansion, O’Leary stated, “We don’t mind if she comes up with a third runway at Heathrow, although please understand it won’t be delivered until 2040 or 2050 at the earliest.” He expressed skepticism about the project’s feasibility and its potential impact on economic revival, referring to Reeves’ economic strategies as a “dead cow” trying to breathe life into a “dead cat” – a metaphor for the struggling UK economy.

O’Leary’s criticism extended to APD, a tax imposed on airlines for each passenger, which he argued stifles growth in the aviation sector. “But at least while you’re waiting for that dead cow to breathe life into that dead cat [the UK economy], can you please abolish APD [Air Passenger Duty] and allow us to get on with delivering real growth?” he demanded, urging the government to eliminate the tax to foster genuine economic expansion.

The airline mogul did not hold back in his remarks about the Chancellor and her team. He referred to Reeves as “Rachel Rubbish” and one of her junior ministers as a “dopery g”, showcasing his deep frustration and dissatisfaction with their handling of economic policies. During his tirade, O’Leary criticized the Treasury’s disconnect from reality, especially in relation to budget flight costs. “I don’t know what f** airline this dopey g actually flies on,” he exclaimed, dismissing Treasury minister James Murray’s claims about budget flight expenses.

O’Leary further accused Reeves of mismanaging the economy, stating, “The UK continues to lose out on enormous growth opportunities because you have a Chancellor who hasn’t a clue about how to deliver growth.” He emphasized that despite having five years to prepare, Reeves had failed to achieve meaningful progress, culminating in what he described as her first budget mishap.

The clash between O’Leary and Reeves underscores the ongoing tension between the aviation industry and government policies aimed at regulating air travel and boosting economic growth. O’Leary’s outspoken nature and willingness to publicly criticize government officials reflect his commitment to advocating for the interests of Ryanair and the broader aviation sector.

As the debate over Heathrow’s expansion and APD continues, O’Leary’s remarks add to the growing discourse on how best to balance infrastructure development with economic sustainability. His call to abolish APD highlights a significant point of contention, suggesting that easing financial burdens on airlines could lead to more robust growth and job creation within the industry.

Rachel Reeves and her Treasury team are yet to respond to O’Leary’s scathing comments. The Chancellor faces increasing pressure to address the concerns of key industry stakeholders while navigating the complexities of economic policy and infrastructure development.

O’Leary’s fervent opposition serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by policymakers in reconciling diverse interests to foster a thriving economy. As the UK grapples with these issues, the voices of influential figures like Michael O’Leary will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation’s economic landscape.

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