-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, FoPOqLXKwyLqRMVWWov9sPGAWKcrVWoNA699zTazw0n11zvmtBGRFonDc/7ZoQfi idD60rL28UdxKXWgofK/7A== 0001193125-09-157489.txt : 20090729 0001193125-09-157489.hdr.sgml : 20090729 20090729062531 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001193125-09-157489 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 20-F PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 4 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20090331 FILED AS OF DATE: 20090729 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20090729 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: RYANAIR HOLDINGS PLC CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001038683 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: AIR TRANSPORTATION, SCHEDULED [4512] IRS NUMBER: 000000000 FISCAL YEAR END: 0331 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 20-F SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 000-29304 FILM NUMBER: 09968582 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: C/O RYANAIR LTD CORPORATE HEAD OFFICE STREET 2: DUBLIN AIRPORT CITY: COUNTY DUBLIN IRELAN STATE: L2 BUSINESS PHONE: 3538444440 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: CT CORPORATION SYSTEM STREET 2: 1633 BROADWAY CITY: NEW YORK STATE: NY ZIP: 10019 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: RYANAIR HOLDINGS LTD DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19970506 20-F 1 d20f.htm FORM 20 F Form 20 F
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As filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on July 29, 2009

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 20-F

 

 

 

¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

 

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended: March 31, 2009

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

 

¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report:                     

For the transition period from              to             

Commission file number: 0-29304

 

 

Ryanair Holdings plc

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Ryanair Holdings plc

(Translation of registrant’s name into English)

 

 

Republic of Ireland

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

c/o Ryanair Limited

Corporate Head Office

Dublin Airport

County Dublin, Ireland

(Address of principal executive offices)

Please see “Item 4. Information on the Company” herein.

(Name, telephone, e-mail and/or facsimile number and address of company contact person)

 

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

 

Title of each class

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

American Depositary Shares, each representing five Ordinary Shares   Nasdaq National Market

Ordinary Shares, par value 0.635 Euro cents per share

  Nasdaq National Market (not for trading but only in connection with the registration of the American Depositary Shares)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None

 

 


Table of Contents

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

1,473,356,159 Ordinary Shares

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes  x    No  ¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes  ¨    No  x

Note – Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their obligations under those Sections.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes  ¨    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer  x    Accelerated filer  ¨    Non-accelerated filer  ¨

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP  ¨    International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board  x    Other  ¨

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement Item the registrant has elected to follow

Item 17  ¨    Item 18  ¨

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  ¨    No  x

(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Section 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.

Yes  ¨    No  ¨

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    

Page

Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information

   iii

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

   iv
PART I   

Item 1.

  

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

   1

Item 2.

  

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

   1

Item 3.

  

Key Information

   1
  

The Company

   1
  

Selected Financial Data

   2
  

Exchange Rates

   3
  

Selected Operating and Other Data

   5
  

Risk Factors

   6

Item 4.

  

Information on the Company

   17
  

Introduction

   17
  

Strategy

   18
  

Route System, Scheduling and Fares

   21
  

Marketing and Advertising

   22
  

Reservations on Ryanair.Com

   22
  

Aircraft

   22
  

Ancillary Services

   24
  

Maintenance and Repairs

   25
  

Safety Record

   26
  

Airport Operations

   26
  

Fuel

   28
  

Insurance

   29
  

Facilities

   30
  

Trademarks

   30
  

Government Regulation

   31
  

Description of Property

   36

Item 4A.

  

Unresolved Staff Comments

   36

Item 5.

  

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

   36
  

History

   36
  

Business Overview

   37
  

Recent Operating Results

   39
  

Critical Accounting Policies

   39
  

Results of Operations

   41
  

Fiscal Year 2009 Compared with Fiscal Year 2008

   41
  

Fiscal Year 2008 Compared With Fiscal Year 2007

   44
  

Seasonal Fluctuations

   47
  

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

   47
  

Liquidity and Capital Resources

   47
  

Off-Balance Sheet Transactions

   53
  

Trend Information

   54
  

Inflation

   54

Item 6.

  

Directors, Senior Management and Employees

   54
  

Directors

   54
  

Executive Officers

   57
  

Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers

   58
  

Employees and Labor Relations

   59

Item 7.

  

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

   60
  

Major Shareholders

   61
  

Related Party Transactions

   61

 

i


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Page

Item 8.

  

Financial Information

   61
  

Consolidated Financial Statements

   61
  

Other Financial Information

   61
  

Significant Changes

   64

Item 9.

  

The Offer and Listing

   64
  

Trading Markets and Share Prices

   64

Item 10.

  

Additional Information

   67
  

Description of Capital Stock

   67
  

Options to Purchase Securities from Registrant or Subsidiaries

   67
  

Articles of Association

   68
  

Material Contracts

   69
  

Exchange Controls

   69
  

Limitations on Share Ownership by Non-EU Nationals

   69
  

Taxation

   71
  

Documents on Display

   75

Item 11.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   75
  

General

   75
  

Fuel Price Exposure and Hedging

   76
  

Foreign Currency Exposure and Hedging

   76
  

Interest Rate Exposure and Hedging

   77

Item 12.

  

Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

   78
   PART II   

Item 13.

  

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

   79

Item 14.

  

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

   79

Item 15.

  

Controls and Procedures

   79
  

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

   79
  

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

   79
  

Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   80
  

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

   81

Item 16.

  

Reserved

   81

Item 16A.

  

Audit Committee Financial Expert

   81

Item 16B.

  

Code of Ethics

   81

Item 16C.

  

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

   81

Item 16D.

  

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

   81

Item 16E.

  

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

   82

Item 16F.

  

Change in Registrant’s Certified Accountant

   82

Item 16G.

  

Corporate Governance

   82
   PART III   

Item 17.

  

Financial Statements

   83

Item 18.

  

Financial Statements

   83

Item 19.

  

Exhibits

   83

 

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Presentation of Financial and Certain Other Information

 

As used herein, the term “Ryanair Holdings” refers to Ryanair Holdings plc. The term the “Company” refers to Ryanair Holdings or Ryanair Holdings together with its consolidated subsidiaries, as the context requires. The term “Ryanair” refers to Ryanair Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ryanair Holdings, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise. The term “fiscal year” refers to the 12-month period ended on March 31 of the quoted year. All references to “Ireland” herein are references to the Republic of Ireland. All references to the “U.K.” herein are references to the United Kingdom and all references to the “United States” or “U.S.” herein are references to the United States of America. References to “U.S. dollars,” “dollars,” “$” or “U.S. cents” are to the currency of the United States, references to “U.K. pound sterling,” “U.K. £” and “£” are to the currency of the U.K. and references to “€,” “Euro,” “Euros” and “Euro cents” are to the Euro, the common currency of sixteen member states of the European Union (the “EU”), including Ireland. Various amounts and percentages set out in this annual report on Form 20-F have been rounded and accordingly may not total.

 

The Company owns or otherwise has rights to the trademark Ryanair® in certain jurisdictions. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Trademarks.” This report also makes reference to trade names and trademarks of companies other than the Company.

 

The Company publishes its annual and interim consolidated financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). Additionally, in accordance with its legal obligation to comply with the International Accounting Standards Regulation (EC 1606 (2002)), which applies throughout the EU, the consolidated financial statements of the Company must comply with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU. Accordingly, the Company’s consolidated financial statements and the selected IFRS financial data included herein comply with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the IASB and also International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU, in each case as in effect for the year ended and as at March 31, 2009 (collectively referred to as “IFRS” throughout).

 

The Company publishes its consolidated financial statements in Euro. Solely for the convenience of the reader, this report contains translations of certain Euro amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates. These translations should not be construed as representations that the converted amounts actually represent such U.S. dollar amounts or could be converted into U.S. dollars at the rates indicated or at any other rate. Unless otherwise indicated, such U.S. dollar amounts have been translated from Euro at a rate of €1.00=$1.3261, or $1.00=€0.7541, the official rate published by the U.S. Federal Reserve Board in its weekly “H.10” release (the “Federal Reserve Rate”) on March 31, 2009. The Federal Reserve Rate for Euro on July 24, 2009 was €1.00=$1.4213 or $1.00=€0.7036. See “Item 3. Key Information—Exchange Rates” for information regarding historical rates of exchange relevant to the Company, and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk” for a discussion of the effects of changes in exchange rates on the Company.

 

iii


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Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

 

Except for the historical statements and discussions contained herein, statements contained in this report constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Forward-looking statements may include words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “anticipate,” “should,” “intend,” and similar expressions or variations on such expressions. Any filing made by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) may include forward-looking statements. In addition, other written or oral statements which constitute forward-looking statements have been made and may in the future be made by or on behalf of the Company, including statements concerning its future operating and financial performance, the Company’s share of new and existing markets, general industry and economic trends and the Company’s performance relative thereto and the Company’s expectations as to requirements for capital expenditures and regulatory matters. The Company’s business is to provide a low-fares airline service in Europe, and its outlook is predominately based on its interpretation of what it considers to be the key economic factors affecting that business and the European economy. Forward-looking statements with regard to the Company’s business rely on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the Company’s control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. It is not reasonably possible to itemize all of the many factors and specific events that could affect the outlook and results of an airline operating in the European economy. Among the factors that are subject to change and could significantly impact Ryanair’s expected results are the airline pricing environment, fuel costs, competition from new and existing carriers, market prices for replacement aircraft and aircraft maintenance services, aircraft availability, costs associated with environmental, safety and security measures, terrorist attacks, actions of the Irish, U.K., EU and other governments and their respective regulatory agencies, fluctuations in currency exchange rates and interest rates, airport handling and access charges, litigation, labor relations, the economic environment of the airline industry, the general economic environment in Ireland, the U.K. and elsewhere in Europe, the general willingness of passengers to travel, the value of its equity stake in Aer Lingus Group plc (“Aer Lingus”), and other factors discussed herein. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

iv


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PART I

 

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 3. Key Information

 

THE COMPANY

 

Ryanair operates a low-fares, scheduled passenger airline serving short-haul, point-to-point routes in Europe and Morocco from its bases at Dublin, London (Stansted and Luton), Glasgow (Prestwick), Brussels (Charleroi), Frankfurt (Hahn), Milan (Bergamo), Stockholm (Skvasta), Rome (Ciampino), Barcelona (Girona), Nottingham East Midlands, Liverpool, Shannon, Pisa, Cork, Marseille, Madrid, Bremen, Dusseldorf (Weeze), Bristol, Alicante, Belfast, Bournemouth, Birmingham, Kerry, Edinburgh, Reus, Alghero, Cagliari, Trapani, Bologna and Pescara airports, which together are referred to as “Ryanair’s bases of operations” or “Ryanair’s bases.” Ryanair plans to open a base at Porto in August 2009. Ryanair pioneered the low-fares operating model in Europe in the early 1990s. As of June 30, 2009, the Company offered over 1,200 scheduled short-haul flights per day serving 145 locations throughout Europe and Morocco, with an operating fleet of 196 aircraft flying approximately 845 routes. The Company also holds a 29.8% interest in Aer Lingus, which it has acquired through market purchases following Aer Lingus’ partial privatization in 2006. The European Commission has prevented Ryanair from acquiring a majority stake in Aer Lingus pursuant to a decision that the Company is in the process of appealing. For additional information, see “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings—Aer Lingus Merger Decision.”

 

A detailed description of the Company’s business can be found in “Item 4. Information on the Company.”

 

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SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following tables set forth certain of the Company’s selected consolidated financial information as of and for the periods indicated, presented in accordance with IFRS. This information should be read in conjunction with: (i) the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company and related notes thereto included in Item 18; and (ii) “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.”

 

Income Statement Data:

 

    Fiscal year ended March 31,  
    2009(a)     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
    (in thousands, except per-Ordinary Share data)  

Total operating revenues

  $ 3,901,340      2,941,965      2,713,822      2,236,895      1,692,530      1,319,037   

Total operating expenses

    (3,778,502     (2,849,334     (2,176,742     (1,765,150     (1,317,484     (978,299
                                               

Operating income

    122,838        92,631        537,080        471,745        375,046        340,738   
                                               

Net interest (expense) income

    (72,965     (55,022     (13,131     (19,893     (35,739     (29,287

Other non-operating (expense) income

    (289,217     (218,096     (85,022     (815     (419     (2,255
                                               

Profit (loss) before taxation

    (239,344     (180,487     438,927        451,037        338,888        309,196   

Taxation

    15,003        11,314        (48,219     (15,437     (32,176     (29,153

Profit (loss) after taxation

  $ (224,341   (169,173   390,708      435,600      306,712      280,043   
                                               

Ryanair Holdings basic earnings (loss) per Ordinary Share (U.S. cents)/(Euro cents)(b)

    (15.17     (11.44     25.84        28.20        20.00        18.43   

Ryanair Holdings diluted earnings (loss) per Ordinary Share (U.S. cents)/(Euro cents)(b)

    (15.17     (11.44     25.62        27.97        19.87        18.33   

 

Balance Sheet Data:

 

    As of March 31,
    2009(a)   2009   2008   2007   2006   2005
    (in thousands)

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 2,099,474   1,583,194   1,470,849   1,346,419   1,439,004   872,258

Total assets

    8,470,944     6,387,862     6,327,551     5,763,687     4,634,219     3,818,153

Long-term debt, including capital lease obligations

    3,180,571     2,398,440     2,266,495     1,862,066     1,677,728     1,414,857

Shareholders’ equity

  $ 3,215,873   2,425,061   2,502,194   2,539,773   1,991,985   1,734,503

Issued share capital

  $ 12,404   9,354   9,465   9,822   9,790   9,675

 

Cash Flow Statement Data:

 

    Fiscal year ended March 31,  
    2009(a)     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
    (in thousands)  

Net cash inflow from operating activities

  $ 547,857      413,134      703,901      900,837      610,570      511,203   

Net cash (outflow) from investing activities

    (514,968     (388,333     (692,310     (1,188,993     (337,285     (850,462

Net cash inflow from financing activities

    116,092        87,544        112,839        195,571        293,461        467,257   

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

  $ 148,980      112,345      124,430      (92,585   566,746      127,998   

 

(a) Dollar amounts are translated from Euro solely for convenience at the Federal Reserve Rate on March 31, 2009, of €1.00=$1.3261 or $1.00=€0.7541.
(b) All per-Ordinary Share amounts have been adjusted to reflect the 2-for-1 split of Ordinary Shares (and ADRs) that occurred on February 26, 2007. For additional information, see “Item 10. Additional Information—Description of Capital Stock.”

 

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EXCHANGE RATES

 

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain information concerning the exchange rate between: (i) the U.S. dollar and the Euro; (ii) the U.K. pound sterling and the Euro; and (iii) the U.K. pound sterling and the U.S. dollar. Such rates are provided solely for the convenience of the reader and are not necessarily the rates used by the Company in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements included in Item 18. No representation is made that any of such currencies could have been, or could be, converted into any other of such currencies at such rates or at any other rate.

 

U.S. dollars per €1.00(a)

 

Year ended December 31,

   End of
Period
   Average(b)    Low    High

2004

   1.354    1.248    —      —  

2005

   1.184    1.239    —      —  

2006

   1.319    1.256    —      —  

2007

   1.458    1.371    —      —  

2008

   1.395    1.471    —      —  

Month ended

                   

January 31, 2009

   —      —      1.283    1.396

February 28, 2009

   —      —      1.256    1.306

March 31, 2009

   —      —      1.254    1.364

April 30, 2009

   —      —      1.293    1.348

May 31, 2009

   —      —      1.326    1.412

June 30, 2009

   —      —      1.378    1.429

Period ended July 24, 2009

   —      —      1.385    1.427

 

U.K. pounds sterling per €1.00(c)

 

Year ended December 31,

   End of
Period
   Average(b)    Low    High

2004

   0.708    0.679    —      —  

2005

   0.689    0.682    —      —  

2006

   0.674    0.682    —      —  

2007

   0.735    0.685    —      —  

2008

   0.957    0.797    —      —  

Month ended

                   

January 31, 2009

   —      —      0.887    0.960

February 28, 2009

   —      —      0.872    0.903

March 31, 2009

   —      —      0.889    0.939

April 30, 2009

   —      —      0.881    0.918

May 31, 2009

   —      —      0.867    0.898

June 30, 2009

   —      —      0.844    0.879

Period ended July 24, 2009

   —      —      0.854    0.866

 

3


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U.K. pounds sterling per U.S.$1.00(d)

 

Year ended December 31,

   End of
Period
   Average(b)    Low    High

2004

   0.522    0.545    —      —  

2005

   0.581    0.551    —      —  

2006

   0.511    0.543    —      —  

2007

   0.504    0.500    —      —  

2008

   0.686    0.546    —      —  

Month ended

                   

January 31, 2009

   —      —      0.657    0.730

February 28, 2009

   —      —      0.669    0.703

March 31, 2009

   —      —      0.679    0.726

April 30, 2009

   —      —      0.666    0.695

May 31, 2009

   —      —      0.619    0.672

June 30, 2009

   —      —      0.603    0.624

Period ended July 24, 2009

   —      —      0.604    0.624

 

(a) Based on the Federal Reserve Rate for Euro.
(b) The average of the relevant exchange rates on the last business day of each month during the relevant period.
(c) Based on the composite exchange rate as quoted at 5 p.m., New York time, by Bloomberg.
(d) Based on the Federal Reserve Rate for U.K. pounds sterling.

 

As of July 24, 2009, the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Euro was €1.00=$.4213, or $1.00=€0.7036; the exchange rate between the U.K. pound sterling and the Euro was U.K. £1.00=€1.1555, or €1.00=U.K. £0.8654; and the exchange rate between the U.K. pound sterling and the U.S. dollar was U.K. £1.00=$1.6432, or $1.00=U.K. £0.6086. For a discussion of the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on the Company’s results of operations, see “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”

 

4


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SELECTED OPERATING AND OTHER DATA

 

The following tables set forth certain operating data of Ryanair for each of the fiscal years shown. Such data are derived from the Company’s consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS and certain other data, and are not audited. For definitions of the terms used in this table, see the Glossary in Appendix A.

 

Operating Data:

 

     Fiscal Year ended March 31,
     2009    2008    2007    2006

Average Yield per Revenue Passenger Mile (“RPM”) (€)

   0.060    0.065    0.070    0.070

Average Yield per Available Seat Miles (“ASM”) (€)

   0.050    0.054    0.059    0.058

Average Fuel Cost per U.S. Gallon (€)

   2.351    1.674    1.826    1.479

Cost per ASM (CASM) (€)

   0.058    0.051    0.054    0.052

Break-even Load Factor

   98%    79%    77%    75%

Operating Margin

   5%    20%    21%    22%

Total Break-even Load Factor(a)

   79%    67%    66%    65%

Average Booked Passenger Fare (€)

   40.02    43.70    44.10    41.23

Ancillary Revenue per Booked Passenger (€)

   10.21    9.58    8.52    7.45

 

Other Data:

 

     Fiscal Year ended March 31,
     2009    2008    2007    2006

Revenue Passengers Booked

   58,565,663    50,931,723    42,509,112    34,768,813

Revenue Passenger Miles

   39,202,293,374    34,452,733,067    26,943,689,231    20,342,377,824

Available Seat Miles

   47,102,503,388    41,342,195,458    32,043,022,051    24,282,100,345

Booked Passenger Load Factor

   81%    82%    82%    83%

Average Length of Passenger Haul (miles)

   654    662    621    585

Sectors Flown

   380,915    330,598    272,889    227,316

Number of Airports Served at Period End

   143    147    123    111

Average Daily Flight Hour Utilization (hours)

   9.59    9.87    9.77    9.60

Employees at Period End

   6,616    5,920    4,462    3,453

Employees per Aircraft at Period End

   36    36    34    35

Booked Passengers per Employee at Period End

   8,852    8,603    9,527    10,069

 

(a) Total Break-even Load Factor is calculated on the basis of total costs and revenues, including the costs and revenues from all ancillary services.

 

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RISK FACTORS

 

Risks Related to the Company

 

Changes in Fuel Costs and Fuel Availability Affect the Company’s Results and Increase the Likelihood that the Company May Incur Additional Losses. Jet fuel costs are subject to wide fluctuations as a result of many economic and political factors and events occurring throughout the world that Ryanair can neither control nor accurately predict, including increases in demand, sudden disruptions in supply and other concerns about global supply, as well as market speculation. Fuel prices increased substantially in fiscal years 2008 and 2009, peaking at $147 per barrel of Brent crude oil in July 2008. These increases had a significant impact on Ryanair’s costs, and in turn, on its financial results—contributing to the net loss recorded in fiscal year 2009 (the first such loss since the Company’s public flotation), which reflected a 59% increase in fuel costs between fiscal year 2008 and fiscal year 2009, in addition to a €223.0 million write-down of the Company’s investment in Aer Lingus and accelerated depreciation of €51.7 million. As international prices for jet fuel are denominated in U.S. dollars, Ryanair’s fuel costs are also subject to certain exchange rate risks. Substantial price increases, adverse exchange rates, or the unavailability of adequate supplies, including, without limitation, any such events resulting from prolonged hostilities in the Middle East or other oil-producing regions or the suspension of production by any significant producer, may adversely affect Ryanair’s profitability. In the event of a fuel shortage resulting from a disruption of oil imports or otherwise, additional increases in fuel prices or a curtailment of scheduled services could result.

 

Ryanair has historically entered into arrangements providing for substantial protection against fluctuations in fuel prices, generally through forward contracts covering periods of up to 18 months of anticipated jet fuel requirements. Ryanair (like many other airlines) has, in more recent periods, entered into hedging arrangements on a much more selective basis. Ryanair has entered into forward jet fuel (jet kerosene) contracts covering approximately 90% of its estimated requirements for the period from April to December 2009 at prices equivalent to approximately $620 per metric ton. In addition, Ryanair has entered into forward jet fuel (jet kerosene) contracts covering approximately 60% of its estimated requirements for the period from January 2010 to March 2010 at prices equivalent to $610 per metric ton. The Company expects—depending on oil price movements over the coming months—to hedge a further portion of its fuel requirements for the fourth quarter of its 2010 fiscal year. Other than the foregoing, Ryanair has not entered into material agreements to seek to fix the price of any material quantity of fuel, and the Company is therefore exposed to risks arising from fluctuations in the price of fuel, especially in light of the recent volatility. Any new increase in fuel costs could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. See “—The Company May Not Be Successful in Raising Fares to Offset Increased Business Costs” below.

 

No assurances whatsoever can be given about trends in fuel prices, and average fuel prices for the 2010 fiscal year or for future years may be significantly higher than current prices. Management estimates that every $1.00 movement in the price of a metric ton of jet fuel will impact Ryanair’s net income by approximately €0.18 million, taking into account Ryanair’s hedging program for the 2010 fiscal year. There can be no assurance, however, in this regard, and the impact of fuel prices on Ryanair’s operating results may be more pronounced. There also cannot be any assurance that Ryanair’s current or any future arrangements will be adequate to protect Ryanair from further increases in the price of fuel, that Ryanair will not incur losses due to high fuel prices alone or in combination with other factors, or that fuel prices will ever decline from their current levels. See “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Fuel Price Exposure and Hedging.” Because of Ryanair’s low fares and its no-fuel-surcharges policy, as well as the Company’s significant expansion plans, which will tend to have a negative impact on yields, its ability to pass on increased fuel costs to passengers through increased fares or otherwise is limited. Moreover, the anticipated expansion of Ryanair’s fleet will result in an increase, in absolute terms, in Ryanair’s aggregate fuel costs.

 

Based upon Ryanair’s fuel consumption for the 2009 fiscal year, a change of $1.00 in the average annual price per metric ton of jet fuel would have caused a change of approximately €1.1 million in the Company’s annual fuel costs. Ryanair’s fuel costs in the 2009 fiscal year, after giving effect to the Company’s fuel hedging activities, increased by 59% over the comparable period ended March 31, 2008, to €1,257.1 million, primarily due to the significant increase in the cost of jet fuel and an increase in the number of sectors flown as a result of the expansion of Ryanair’s fleet and route network, offset in part by the positive impact on fuel costs of the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. dollar. Ryanair estimates that its fuel costs would have been approximately €1,154.5 million in the 2009 fiscal year, as compared to €915.8 million in the 2008 fiscal year, had Ryanair not had any fuel hedging arrangements in place in either fiscal year. Fuel costs were a significant

 

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component in the significant increase in Ryanair’s cost base during fiscal year 2009, as its Cost per Available Seat Mile (“CASM”) increased from 0.051 Euro cents to 0.058 Euro cents, and its Break-Even Load Factor increased from 79% to 98%.

 

Ryanair Has Decided to Freeze its Development in the U.K. Market and Curtail Certain U.K. Operations. Ryanair informed its U.K.-based pilots on June 16, 2009 that it had completed a review of its U.K. growth plans. The review was prompted by the recessionary environment in the U.K. and the impact it had on Ryanair’s business, coupled with the negative impact of the U.K.’s £10 Air Passenger Duty (“APD”), described in more detail below. As a secondary issue, Ryanair also noted that the campaign conducted by the British Airline Pilots Association (“BALPA”) for union recognition had made Ryanair’s position in the U.K. more uncertain. See “—Risks Related to the Airline Industry—The Airline Industry Is Particularly Sensitive to Changes in Economic Conditions; A Continued Recessionary Environment Would Negatively Impact Ryanair’s Result of Operations” below.

 

As a result of the review, Ryanair announced its decision to temporarily freeze all growth at its existing U.K. bases from June 16, 2009 onwards. Ryanair plans to review the freeze of U.K. bases at the end of 2009; any changes in the announced policy will be dependent upon the recovery of the U.K. economy, the status of the U.K.’s APD tourist tax and any other relevant factors (such as airport growth incentives).

 

Furthermore, Ryanair announced on July 21, 2009 that, as a result of the U.K. government’s £10 APD tourist tax (as well as the planned increase in APD from £10 to £11 in November 2009) and the high costs of operating at its London (Stansted) base, it would implement a 40% reduction in capacity at such base between October 2009 and March 2010. In particular, the Company will reduce its London (Stansted)-based aircraft from the current 40 to 24 during the aforementioned period. This reduction in capacity will accompany a 30% reduction in the number of weekly Ryanair flights to and from the airport, and is expected to result in 2.5 million fewer passenger trips during the period.

 

The decision to freeze the Company’s development in the U.K. and reduce flights to and from London (Stansted) presents numerous risks. In the past, the Company’s growth has been largely dependent on flights to or from the U.K. Such flights represented 28.6% of total flights in the 2009 fiscal year. A weak U.K. economy, along with the Company’s decision to freeze its U.K. bases, and reduce its London (Stansted) flights, may affect the overall growth of the Company. In addition, the abovementioned measures affecting U.K.-based pilots may affect the Company’s labor relations. Such risks could lead to negative effects on the Company’s financial condition and/or results of operations.

 

The Company May Not Be Successful in Reducing Business Costs to Offset Reduced Fares. Ryanair operates a low-fares airline. The success of its business model depends on its ability to control costs so as to deliver low fares while at the same time earning a profit. However, the Company currently faces an environment of weakening economic demand—prompting fare reductions—as well as high fuel costs. See “—The Company Faces Significant Price and Other Pressures in a Highly Competitive Environment” below and “—Changes in Fuel Costs and Fuel Availability Affect the Company’s Results and Increase the Likelihood that the Company May Incur Additional Losses” above.

 

Although the Company believes fare reductions are necessary in order to retain and grow its market share, every 1% movement in average fares tends to impact Ryanair’s net income by approximately €23.5 million (based on fiscal 2009 data). As a result, Ryanair is likely to be able to generate profits only if it is able to reduce fuel and other costs. The Company has limited control over its fuel costs and already has comparatively low operating costs. If the Company is unable to reduce its operating costs, operating profits could fall. The Company cannot offer any assurances regarding its future profitability.

 

Terrorism in the United Kingdom or Elsewhere in Europe Could Have a Material Detrimental Effect on the Company. On August 10, 2006, U.K. security authorities arrested and subsequently charged eight individuals in connection with an alleged plot to attack aircraft operating on transatlantic routes. As a result of these arrests, U.K. authorities introduced increased security measures, which resulted in all passengers being body-searched, and a ban on the transportation in carry-on baggage of certain liquids and gels. The introduction of these measures led to passengers suffering severe delays while passing through these airport security checks. As a result, Ryanair cancelled 279 flights in the days following the incident and refunded a total of €2.7 million in fares to approximately 40,000 passengers. In the days following the arrests, Ryanair also suffered reductions in bookings estimated to have resulted in the loss of approximately €1.9 million of additional revenue. As in the past, the Company reacted to these adverse events by initiating system-wide fare sales to stimulate demand for air travel.

 

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In addition, reservations on Ryanair’s flights to London dropped materially for a number of days in the immediate aftermath of the terrorist attacks in London on July 7, 2005. Although the terrorist attack in Glasgow on June 30, 2007 (in which a car filled with explosives was driven into the Glasgow airport) and the failed terrorist attacks in London on July 21, 2005 and June 29, 2007 had no material impact on bookings, there can be no assurance that future such attacks will not affect passenger traffic. In the 2009 fiscal year, flights into and out of London carried 18.8 million, or approximately 32%, of total passengers traveling on the Company’s network.

 

Future acts of terrorism or significant terrorist threats, particularly in London or other markets that are significant to Ryanair, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s profitability or financial condition should the public’s willingness to travel to and from those markets decline as a result. See also “Risks Related to the Airline Industry—The 2001 Terrorist Attacks on the United States Had a Severe Negative Impact on the International Airline Industry.”

 

The Company is Subject to Legal Proceedings Alleging State Aid at Certain Airports. In December 2002, the European Commission announced the launch of an investigation into the April 2001 agreement between Ryanair and Brussels (Charleroi) airport and the airport’s owner, the government of the Walloon Region of Belgium. The agreement enabled the Company to launch new routes and base up to four aircraft at Brussels (Charleroi).

 

In February 2004, the European Commission found that a portion of the arrangements between Ryanair, the airport, and the region constituted illegal state aid, and therefore ordered Ryanair to repay the amount of the benefit received in connection with those arrangements. In May 2004, Ryanair appealed the decision of the European Commission to the European Court of First Instance (“CFI”), requesting that the decision be annulled. The CFI heard Ryanair’s appeal in March 2008. In December 2008, the CFI annulled the European Commission’s decision and Ryanair was repaid the €4 million that the Commission had claimed was illegal state aid. Additionally, the Walloon Region withdrew a separate action for €2.3 million against the Company.

 

On June 17, 2008, the European Commission launched a further investigation into Ryanair’s agreements at Frankfurt (Hahn) airport, which is a significant base for Ryanair. The European Commission announced in a public statement that its initial investigation had found that the airport might have acted like a private market investor but that it had insufficient evidence to reach a conclusion and therefore had elected to open a formal investigation. The formal investigation is ongoing and is expected to last approximately 18 months. Ryanair is also facing legal challenges with respect to similar agreements with certain other airports.

 

Ryanair believes that the positive decision by the CFI in the Charleroi case will cause the Commission to rethink its policy in this area. However, adverse rulings in the Frankfurt (Hahn) or similar cases could be used as precedents by competitors to challenge Ryanair’s agreements with other publicly owned airports and could cause Ryanair to strongly reconsider its growth strategy in relation to public or state-owned airports across Europe. This could in turn lead to a scaling-back of Ryanair’s overall growth strategy due to the smaller number of privately owned airports available for development. No assurance can be given as to the outcome of legal proceedings, nor as to whether any unfavorable outcomes may, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the results of operation or financial condition of the Company. For additional information, please see “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”

 

The Company Faces Significant Price and Other Pressures in a Highly Competitive Environment. Ryanair operates in a highly competitive marketplace, with a number of new entrants, traditional airlines, and charter airlines competing throughout the route network. Airlines compete primarily with respect to fare levels, frequency and dependability of service, name recognition, passenger amenities (such as access to frequent flyer programs), and the availability and convenience of other passenger services. Unlike Ryanair, certain of Ryanair’s competitors are state-owned or state-controlled flag carriers and in some cases may have greater name recognition and resources and may have received, or may receive in the future, significant amounts of subsidies and other state aid from their respective governments. In addition, the EU-U.S. Open Skies Agreement, which was signed in April 2007 and entered into effect in March 2008, allows U.S. carriers to offer services in the intra-EU market, which should eventually result in increased competition. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Government Regulation—Liberalization of the EU Air Transportation Market.”

 

The airline industry is highly susceptible to price discounting, in part because airlines incur very low marginal costs for providing service to passengers occupying otherwise unsold seats. The number of new-entrant low-fares airlines and traditional carriers offering lower, more competitive fares in direct competition with Ryanair across its route network has increased significantly in recent years as a result of the liberalization of the

 

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EU air transport market and greater public acceptance of the low-fares model. Increased price competition and the resulting lower fares, combined with continuing increases in the Company’s capacity in recent years (including an increase of approximately 15% during the 2009 fiscal year), have combined to put downward pressure on the Company’s yields. Ryanair’s Yield per Available Seat Mile (“YASM”) decreased by 7.8% in the 2008 fiscal year and an additional 7.6% in the 2009 fiscal year.

 

Although Ryanair intends to compete vigorously and to assert its rights against any predatory pricing or other conduct, price competition among airlines could reduce the level of fares or passenger traffic on the Company’s routes to the point where profitability may not be achievable.

 

In addition to traditional competition among airline companies and charter operators who have entered the low-fares market, the industry also faces some limited competition from ground transportation (including high-speed rail systems such as the “TGV” in France) and sea transportation alternatives, as businesses and recreational travelers seek more comfortable or convenient substitutes for air travel.

 

The Company Will Incur Significant Costs Acquiring New Aircraft and the Continued Instability in the Credit and Capital Markets Could Negatively Impact Ryanair’s Ability to Obtain Financing on Acceptable Terms. Ryanair’s continued growth is dependent upon its ability to acquire additional aircraft to meet additional capacity needs and to replace older aircraft.

 

Ryanair expects to have 232 aircraft in its fleet by March 31, 2010. With the Company’s current orders for aircraft it is obligated to buy (i.e., “firm” orders) under its contracts with The Boeing Company (“Boeing”), the Company expects to increase the size of its fleet to as many as 302 Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft by March 2012 (assuming the exercise of 10 options, and that planned disposals of aircraft and returns of leased aircraft are completed on schedule). For additional information on the Company’s aircraft fleet and expansion plans, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Aircraft” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources.” There can be no assurance that this planned expansion will not outpace the growth of passenger traffic on Ryanair’s routes or that traffic growth will not prove to be greater than the expanded fleet can accommodate. In either case, such developments could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations, and financial condition.

 

Ryanair plans to finance its purchases of firm-order aircraft through a combination of bank loans, operating and finance leases—including via sale-and-leaseback transactions—and cash flow generated from the Company’s operations. As in the past, Ryanair expects a majority of its financing to be supported by guarantees granted by the Export-Import Bank of the United States (“ExIm Bank”). Nonetheless, due to the significant general deterioration in the availability of bank credit facilities over the last year, no assurance can be given that sufficient financing will be available to Ryanair or that the terms of any such financing will be favorable. Any inability of the Company to obtain financing for new aircraft on reasonable terms could have a material adverse effect on its business, results of operations, and financial condition.

 

In addition, the financing of new and existing Boeing 737-800 aircraft has already and will continue to significantly increase the total amount of the Company’s outstanding debt and the payments it is obliged to make to service such debt. Furthermore, Ryanair’s ability to draw down funds under its existing bank-loan facilities to pay for aircraft as they are delivered is subject to various conditions imposed by the counterparties to such bank loan facilities and related loan guarantees, and any future financing is expected to be subject to similar conditions. The Company currently has arranged financing for all 65 aircraft to be delivered in the period to October 2010 through ExIm Bank-supported finance and operating leases (though financing for 55 of such aircraft remains subject to the issuance of credit guarantees by ExIm Bank). The Company also has financing mandates in place covering the following 12 firm-order aircraft deliveries through operating leases. For additional details on Ryanair’s financings, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

 

Ryanair has also entered into significant derivative transactions intended to hedge its current aircraft acquisition-related debt obligations. These derivative transactions expose Ryanair to certain risks and could have adverse effects on its results of operations and financial condition. See “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”

 

The Company’s Rapid Growth May Expose It to Risks. Ryanair’s operations have grown rapidly since it pioneered the low-fares operating model in Europe in the early 1990s. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—History.” During the 2009 fiscal year, Ryanair announced 236 new routes originating

 

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from Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the U.K. Ryanair intends to continue to expand its fleet and add new destinations and additional flights, which are expected to increase Ryanair’s booked passenger volumes in the 2010 fiscal year to approximately 67 million passengers, an increase of approximately 14% over the 2009 fiscal year level of approximately 58.6 million passengers, although no assurance can be given that this target will in fact be met. If growth in passenger traffic and Ryanair’s revenues do not keep pace with the planned expansion of its fleet, Ryanair could suffer from overcapacity and its results of operations and financial condition (including its ability to fund scheduled aircraft purchases and related debt) could be materially adversely affected.

 

The expansion of Ryanair’s fleet and operations, in addition to other factors, may also strain existing management resources and related operational, financial, management information, and information technology systems, including Ryanair’s Internet-based reservation system, to the point that they may no longer be adequate to support Ryanair’s operations. This would require Ryanair to make significant additional expenditures. Expansion will generally require additional skilled personnel, equipment facilities, and systems. An inability to hire skilled personnel or to secure the required equipment and facilities efficiently and in a cost-effective manner may adversely affect Ryanair’s ability to achieve growth plans and sustain or increase its profitability.

 

Ryanair’s New Routes and Expanded Operations may have an Adverse Financial Impact on its Results. Currently, a substantial number of carriers operate routes that compete with Ryanair’s, and the Company expects to face further intense competition. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Industry Overview—European Market.”

 

When Ryanair commences new routes, its load factors initially tend to be lower than those on its established routes and its advertising and other promotional costs tend to be higher, which may result in initial losses that could have a material negative impact on the Company’s results of operations as well as require a substantial amount of cash to fund. In addition, there can be no assurance that Ryanair’s low-fares service will be accepted on new routes. Ryanair also periodically runs special promotional fare campaigns, in particular in connection with the opening of new routes. Promotional fares may have the effect of increasing load factors and reducing Ryanair’s yield and passenger revenues on such routes during the periods that they are in effect. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Route System, Scheduling and Fares.” Ryanair expects to have other substantial cash needs as it expands, including as regards the cash required to fund aircraft purchases or aircraft deposits related to the acquisition of additional Boeing 737-800s. There can be no assurance that the Company will have sufficient cash to make such expenditures and investments, and to the extent Ryanair is unable to expand its route system successfully, its future revenue and earnings growth will in turn be limited. See “—The Company Will incur Significant Costs Acquiring New Aircraft and the Continued Instability in the Credit and Capital Markets Could Negatively Impact Ryanair’s Ability to Obtain Financing on Acceptable Terms.”

 

Ryanair’s Continued Growth is Dependent on Access to Suitable Airports; Charges for Airport Access are Subject to Increase. Airline traffic at certain European airports is regulated by a system of grandfathered “slot” allocations. Each slot represents authorization to take-off and land at the particular airport during a specified time period. Although the majority of Ryanair’s bases currently have no slot allocations, traffic at a minority of the airports Ryanair serves, including its primary bases, is currently regulated through slot allocations. Applicable EU regulations appear to prohibit the buying or selling of slots for cash, although media reports indicate that the buying and selling of slots may be happening at certain airports in Europe. Regardless of any such sales, there can be no assurance that Ryanair will be able to obtain a sufficient number of slots at slot-controlled airports that it may wish to serve in the future, at the time it needs them, or on acceptable terms. There can also be no assurance that its non-slot bases, or the other non-slot airports Ryanair serves, will continue to operate without slot allocations in the future. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Government Regulation—Slots.” Airports may impose other operating restrictions such as curfews, limits on aircraft noise levels, mandatory flight paths, runway restrictions, and limits on the number of average daily departures. Such restrictions may limit the ability of Ryanair to provide service to, or increase service at, such airports.

 

Ryanair’s future growth also materially depends on its ability to access suitable airports located in its targeted geographic markets at costs that are consistent with Ryanair’s low-fares strategy. Any condition that denies, limits, or delays Ryanair’s access to airports it serves or seeks to serve in the future would constrain Ryanair’s ability to grow. A change in the terms of Ryanair’s access to these facilities or any increase in the relevant charges paid by Ryanair as a result of the expiration or termination of such arrangements and Ryanair’s failure to renegotiate comparable terms or rates could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. For example, in March 2007, the discount arrangement formerly in place at London (Stansted) airport terminated, subjecting Ryanair to an average increase in charges of approximately

 

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100%. This increase in charges had a negative impact on yields and passenger volumes. In addition, in September 2006, the Dublin Airport Authority (“DAA”) announced that it was planning to build a new terminal (Terminal 2) at Dublin Airport at a cost of approximately €800 million. Subsequently, the projected cost of the new terminal has risen to in excess of €1.0 billion. This capital expenditure will mean that charges at Dublin Airport will increase significantly, possibly doubling from their current level, leading to increased fares and an adverse impact on yields and passenger volumes at Dublin Airport. Ryanair has responded by moving to reduce capacity in both summer and winter periods. The increase in charges, in combination with the introduction of the €10 Air Travel Tax described below, could lead to substantially reduced passenger volumes and a significant decline in yields on flights to and from Dublin Airport. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Airport Operations—Airport Charges.” See also “—The Company Is Subject to Legal Proceedings Alleging State Aid at Certain Airports.”

 

The Company’s Acquisition of 29.8% of Aer Lingus and Subsequent Failure to Conclude a Complete Acquisition of Aer Lingus Could Expose the Company to Risk. During the 2007 fiscal year, the Company acquired 25.2% of Aer Lingus. The Company increased its interest to 29.3% during the 2008 fiscal year, and to 29.8% during the 2009 fiscal year at a total aggregate cost of €407.2 million. Following the acquisition of its initial stake and upon the approval of the Company’s shareholders, management proposed to effect a tender offer to acquire the entire share capital of Aer Lingus. This acquisition proposal was, however, blocked by the European Commission on competition grounds. Ryanair filed an appeal with the CFI, which was heard in July 2009, and currently expects the CFI to announce its decision approximately nine months thereafter.

 

The EU Commissioner for Competition, Neelie Kroes, said on June 27, 2007 that, “Since Ryanair is not in a position to exert de jure or de facto control over Aer Lingus, the European Commission is not in a position to require Ryanair to divest its minority shareholding, which is, by the way, not a controlling stake.” In October 2007, the European Commission also reached a formal decision that it would not force Ryanair to sell its shares in Aer Lingus. However, Aer Lingus appealed this decision before the CFI and the CFI may overturn the decision. This case was heard in July 2009 and a decision is expected to be issued approximately nine months thereafter. In addition to the risk that the CFI may overturn the decision, the EU legislation may change in the future so as to require such a forced disposition. In January 2008, the CFI heard an application by Aer Lingus for interim measures limiting Ryanair’s voting rights, pending a decision of the CFI on Aer Lingus’ appeal of the European Commission’s decision not to force Ryanair to sell the Aer Lingus shares. In March 2008, the court dismissed Aer Lingus’ application for interim measures. If eventually forced to dispose of its stake in Aer Lingus, Ryanair could suffer significant losses due to the negative impact on attainable prices of the forced sale of such a significant portion of Aer Lingus’ shares.

 

During the 2008 fiscal year, Ryanair recognized an impairment charge in the income statement of €91.6 million on its Aer Lingus shareholding reflecting the decline in the Aer Lingus share price from the dates of purchase to March 31, 2008. During the 2009 fiscal year, the Company recognized a further impairment charge of €222.5 million.

 

During the three-month period ended June 30, 2009, the Company has recognized a further impairment charge in the income statement of €13.5 million on its Aer Lingus shareholding, reflecting the decline in the Aer Lingus share price from €0.59 at March 31, 2009 to €0.50 at June 30, 2009.

 

Generally deteriorating conditions in the airline industry affect the Company not only directly, but also indirectly, because the value of its stake in Aer Lingus fluctuates with the share price. However, as the value of the Company’s stake in Aer Lingus has already been written down to just €79.7 million, the potential for future write-downs of that asset is currently limited to that amount.

 

On December 1, 2008, Ryanair made a new offer to acquire all of the ordinary shares of Aer Lingus it did not own at a price of €1.40 per ordinary share. The offer of €1.40 per share represented a premium of approximately 25% over the closing price of €1.12 of Aer Lingus on November 28, 2008. Ryanair also advised the market that it would not proceed to seek EU approval for the new bid unless the shareholders agreed to sell their stakes in Aer Lingus to Ryanair. However, the Company was unable to secure the shareholders’ support and, accordingly, on January 28, 2009, it withdrew its new offer for Aer Lingus.

 

Labor Relations Could Expose the Company to Risk. In the past, a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the Company’s historical profitability, have made it difficult for Ryanair to avoid increases to its base salary levels and employee productivity payments. Consequently, there can be no assurance that Ryanair’s existing employee compensation arrangements may not be subject to change or modification at any time. However, given the deterioration in the economic prospects of the Company, the Company has negotiated with

 

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all employee groups and has secured a pay freeze for fiscal years 2009 and 2010. In addition, the Company will eliminate any positions which may be identified as redundant. These steps may lead to deteriorations in labor relations in the Company and could impact the Company’s business or results of operations.

 

The Company completed the retirement of its former fleet of Boeing 737-200A aircraft in December 2005 and replaced them with Boeing 737-800 aircraft. As a result of the retirement of the Boeing 737-200A aircraft, Ryanair required its pilots who lacked the necessary training to undergo a conversion training process to enable them to fly the new Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Starting in the fall of 2004, Ryanair made a number of written offers to its Dublin-based pilots to enable them to participate in a re-training process in order to obtain the correct type-rating for flying the Boeing 737-800 aircraft. All of these pilots have now been trained on the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, either by paying in advance the €15,000 cost of the conversion training, or by executing a five-year bond, under which the training is provided free of charge unless the pilots do not maintain their employment with Ryanair for a period of at least five years, in which case they are obligated to reimburse Ryanair for the training costs. In the Irish High Court, 64 pilots initiated proceedings claiming that the terms of such bond infringed their freedom of association rights and their right to allow trade unions to negotiate on their behalf. Only 11 of such pilots remain in the Company’s employment and still have claims. These proceedings were not progressed by these employees during the 2009 fiscal year.

 

Ryanair currently conducts collective bargaining negotiations with groups of employees, including its pilots, regarding pay, work practices, and conditions of employment, through “Employee Representation Committees,” internally elected collective bargaining units that may conduct negotiations. Ryanair considers its relationships with its employees to be good, although in 1998 the Company did experience work stoppages by a small group of Dublin baggage handlers. In addition, in the U.K., the BALPA unsuccessfully sought to represent Ryanair’s U.K.-based pilots in their negotiations with the Company in 2001. On June 19, 2009, BALPA made a request for voluntary recognition under applicable U.K. legislation, which Ryanair rejected. BALPA now has the option of applying to the U.K.’s Central Arbitration Committee (“CAC”) to organize a vote on union recognition by Ryanair’s pilots in relevant bargaining units, as determined by the CAC. If BALPA were successful in such a ballot initiative, this would allow it to represent the U.K. pilots at some or all U.K. bases in negotiations over salaries and working conditions. For additional details, see “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Employees and Labor Relations.” See, also, “—Ryanair Has Decided to Freeze its Development in the U.K. Market and Curtail Certain U.K. Operations” above.

 

Limitations on Ryanair’s flexibility in dealing with its employees or the altering of the public’s perception of Ryanair generally could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results, and financial condition.

 

The Company is Dependent on External Service Providers. Ryanair currently assigns its heavy airframe maintenance overhauls, engine overhauls and “rotable” repairs to outside contractors approved under the terms of Part 145, the European regulatory standard for aircraft maintenance established by the European Aviation Safety Agency (“Part 145”). The Company also assigns its passenger and aircraft handling and ground handling services at airports other than Dublin and certain airports in Spain to established external service providers. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Maintenance and Repairs—Heavy Maintenance” and “Item 4. Information on the Company—Airport Operations—Airport Handling Services.”

 

The termination or expiration of any of Ryanair’s service contracts or any inability to renew them or negotiate replacement contracts with other service providers at comparable rates could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations. Ryanair will need to enter into airport service agreements in any new markets it enters, and there can be no assurance that it will be able to obtain the necessary facilities and services at competitive rates. In addition, although Ryanair seeks to monitor the performance of external parties that provide passenger and aircraft handling services, the efficiency, timeliness, and quality of contract performance by external providers are largely beyond Ryanair’s direct control. Ryanair expects to be dependent on such outsourcing arrangements for the foreseeable future.

 

The Company is Dependent on Key Personnel. The Company’s success depends to a significant extent upon the efforts and abilities of its senior management team, including Michael O’Leary, the Chief Executive Officer, and key financial, commercial, operating and maintenance personnel. Mr. O’Leary’s current contract may be terminated by either party upon 12 months’ notice. See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Compensation of Directors and Senior Management—Employment Agreements.” The Company’s success also depends on the ability of its executive officers and other members of senior management to operate and manage effectively, both independently and as a group. Although the Company’s employment agreements with

 

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Mr. O’Leary and some of its other senior executives contain non-competition and non-disclosure provisions, there can be no assurance that these provisions will be enforceable in whole or in part. Competition for highly qualified personnel is intense, and either the loss of any executive officer, senior manager, or other key employee without adequate replacement or the inability to attract new qualified personnel could have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s business, operating results, and financial condition.

 

The Company Faces Risks Related to its Internet Reservations Operations and its Announced Elimination of Airport Check-in Facilities. Approximately 99% of Ryanair’s flight reservations are made through its website. Although the Company has established a contingency program whereby the website is hosted in three separate locations, each of these locations accesses the same booking engine, located at a single center, in order to make reservations.

 

A back-up booking engine is available to Ryanair to support its existing platform in the event of a breakdown in this facility. Nonetheless, the process of switching over to the back-up engine could take some time and there can be no assurance that Ryanair would not suffer a significant loss of reservations in the event of a major breakdown of its booking engine or other related systems, which, in turn, could have a material adverse affect on the Company’s operating results or financial condition.

 

In addition, in March 2006, Ryanair also commenced its Internet check-in service for passengers traveling without bags. Internet check-in is part of a package of measures intended to improve service by reducing airfares as well as reducing check-in and boarding gate lines. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Reservations/Ryanair.com.” The Company has deployed this system across its network. Any disruptions to the Internet check-in service as a result of a breakdown in the relevant computer systems or otherwise could have a material adverse impact on these service-improvement efforts. Moreover, the Company has announced that, with effect from October 1, 2009, all passengers, including those traveling with bags and non-EU nationals, will be required to use Internet check-in. The anticipated result of this requirement is that Ryanair will reduce airport and handling costs, as a result of the need to have fewer check-in staff and rented check-in desks. There can be no assurance, however, that this process will be successful or that consumers will not switch to other carriers that provide standard check-in facilities, which would negatively affect the Company’s results of operations and financial condition.

 

Risks Related to the Airline Industry

 

The Airline Industry Is Particularly Sensitive to Changes in Economic Conditions; A Continued Recessionary Environment Would Negatively Impact Ryanair’s Result of Operations. Ryanair’s operations and the airline industry in general are sensitive to changes in economic conditions. Unfavorable economic conditions such as high unemployment rates, constrained credit markets and increased business operating costs lead to reduced spending by both leisure and business passengers. Unfavorable economic conditions, including the current recession, also tend to impact Ryanair’s ability to raise fares to counteract increased fuel and other operating costs. Demand for European air travel weakened during the latter half of 2008 and the first half of 2009, which Ryanair believes can be primarily attributed to the crisis experienced in the worldwide credit markets, high oil prices, and the global recession. A continued recessionary environment will likely negatively impact Ryanair’s operating results. It could also restrict the company’s ability to grow passenger volumes, secure new airports and launch new routes and bases, and could have a material adverse impact on its financial results.

 

The Introduction of Government Taxes on Travel Could Damage Ryanair’s Ability to Grow and Could Have a Material Adverse Impact on Operations. The U.K. government levies an Air Passenger Duty (APD) of £10 per departing passenger and plans to increase it to £11 per passenger in November 2009. The tax was previously set at £5 per passenger, but it was increased to £10 per passenger in 2007. The increase in this tax is thought to have had a negative impact on Ryanair’s operating performance, both in terms of average fares paid and growth in passenger volumes. In 2008, the Dutch government introduced a travel tax ranging from €11 on short-haul flights to €45 on long-haul flights. On March 30, 2009, the Irish government also introduced a €10 Air Travel Tax on all passengers departing from Irish airports on routes longer than 300 kilometers. Both the Belgian and Greek governments planned to introduce similar taxes; however, they have now cancelled plans to introduce these taxes. The Dutch government withdrew its travel tax with effect from July 1, 2009. The introduction of government taxes on travel, Ryanair believes, has a negative impact on passenger volumes, particularly during a period of decreased economic activity, such as the current global recession, when passengers’ disposable income is reduced. The introduction of further government taxes on travel across Europe could have a material negative impact on Ryanair’s results of operations as a result of price-sensitive passengers being less likely to travel.

 

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Any Significant Outbreak of any Airborne Disease, Including Swine Flu or Foot-and-Mouth Disease, Could Significantly Damage Ryanair’s Business. Worldwide, there has been substantial publicity in recent months regarding the A (H1N1) influenza virus—also known as “swine flu”—which emerged in North America in March 2009. The Company believes that this publicity may have a negative impact on demand for air travel in Europe. Past outbreaks of SARS, foot-and-mouth disease and avian flu have adversely impacted the travel industries, including aviation, in certain regions of the world, including Europe. The Company believes that if the swine flu pandemic becomes severe in Europe, its effect on demand for air travel in the markets in which Ryanair operates could be material, and it could therefore have a significantly adverse impact on the Company. A severe outbreak of swine flu, SARS, foot-and-mouth disease, avian flu or another pandemic or livestock-related disease also may result in European or national authorities imposing restrictions on travel, further damaging Ryanair’s business. A serious pandemic could therefore severely disrupt Ryanair’s business, resulting in the cancellation or loss of bookings, and adversely affecting Ryanair’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

EU Regulation on Passenger Compensation Could Significantly Increase Related Costs. The EU has passed legislation for compensating airline passengers who have been denied boarding on a flight for which they hold a valid ticket (Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004). This legislation, which came into force on February 17, 2005, imposes fixed levels of compensation to be paid to passengers in the event of cancelled flights, except when the airline can prove that such a cancellation is caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as weather, air-traffic control delays, or safety issues. The regulation calls for compensation of €250, €400, or €600 per passenger, depending on the length of the flight. As Ryanair’s average flight length is less than 1,500 km—the upper limit for short-haul flights—the amount payable is generally €250 per passenger per occurrence. Passengers subject to long delays (in excess of two hours for short-haul flights) are also entitled to “assistance,” including meals, drinks and telephone calls, as well as hotel accommodations if the delay extends overnight. For delays of over five hours, the airline is also required to offer the option of a refund of the cost of the unused ticket. This legislation has had no material financial impact on the Company to date. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will not incur an increase in costs in the future due to the impact of this legislation, if Ryanair experiences an increase in cancelled flights, which could occur as a result of factors beyond its control.

 

EU Regulation of Emissions Trading Could Increase Costs. On November 19, 2008, the European Council of Ministers adopted legislation to add aviation to the EU Emissions Trading Scheme with effect from 2012. This scheme, which has thus far applied mainly to energy producers, is a cap-and-trade system for CO2 emissions to encourage industries to improve their CO2 efficiency. Under the legislation, airlines will be granted initial CO2 allowances based on historical performance and a CO2 efficiency benchmark. Any shortage of allowances will have to be purchased in the open market and/or at government auctions. The cost and amount of such allowances that Ryanair will have to buy in 2012 have yet to be determined. There can be no assurance that Ryanair will be able to obtain sufficient carbon credits or that the cost of the credits will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results, and financial condition.

 

The Company is Dependent on the Continued Acceptance of Low-fares Airlines. In past years, accidents or other safety-related incidents involving certain low-fares airlines have had a negative impact on the public’s acceptance of such airlines. Any adverse event potentially relating to the safety or reliability of low-fares airlines (including accidents or negative reports from regulatory authorities) could adversely impact the public’s perception of, and confidence in, low-fares airlines like Ryanair, and could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

The 2001 Terrorist Attacks on the United States Had a Severe Negative Impact on the International Airline Industry. The terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, in which four commercial aircraft were hijacked, had a severe negative impact on the international airline industry, particularly on U.S. carriers and carriers operating international service to and from the United States. Although carriers such as Ryanair that operate primarily or exclusively in Europe were generally spared from such material adverse impacts on their businesses, the cost to all commercial airlines of insurance coverage for certain third-party liabilities arising from “acts of war” or terrorism has increased dramatically since the September 11 attacks. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Insurance.” In addition, Ryanair’s insurers have indicated that the scope of the Company’s current “act of war”-related insurance may exclude certain types of catastrophic incidents, such as certain forms of biological, chemical or “dirty bomb” attacks. This could result in the Company’s seeking alternative coverage, including government insurance or self-insurance, which could lead to further increases in costs. Although Ryanair to date has passed on increased insurance costs to passengers by means of a special “insurance levy” on each ticket, there can be no assurance that it will continue to be successful in doing so.

 

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Because a substantial portion of airline travel (both business and personal) is discretionary and because Ryanair is substantially dependent on discretionary air travel, any prolonged general reduction in airline passenger traffic may adversely affect the Company. Similarly, any significant increase in expenses related to security, insurance or related costs could have a material adverse effect on the Company. Any further terrorist attacks in the U.S. or in Europe, particularly in London or other markets that are significant to Ryanair, any significant military actions by the United States or EU nations (such as the current occupation of, and insurgency in, Iraq), or any related economic downturn may have a material adverse effect on demand for air travel and thus on Ryanair’s business, operating results, and financial condition. See also “—Risks Related to the Company—Further Terrorist Attacks in London and Other Destinations Could Have a Detrimental Effect on the Company.”

 

The Company Faces the Risk of Loss and Liability. Ryanair is exposed to potential catastrophic losses that may be incurred in the event of an aircraft accident or terrorist incident. Any such accident or incident could involve costs related to the repair or replacement of a damaged aircraft and its consequent temporary or permanent loss from service. In addition, an accident or incident could result in significant legal claims against the Company from injured passengers and others who experienced injury as a result of the accident or incident, including ground victims. Ryanair currently maintains passenger liability insurance, employer liability insurance, aircraft insurance for aircraft loss or damage, and other business insurance in amounts per occurrence that are consistent with industry standards. Ryanair currently believes its insurance coverage is adequate (although not comprehensive). However, there can be no assurance that the amount of insurance coverage will not need to be increased, that insurance premiums will not increase significantly, or that Ryanair will not be forced to bear substantial losses from any accidents not covered by its insurance. Airline insurance costs increased dramatically following the September 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States. See “—The 2001 Terrorist Attacks on the United States Had a Severe Negative Impact on the International Airline Industry” above. Substantial claims resulting from an accident in excess of related insurance coverage could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations and financial condition. Moreover, any aircraft accident, even if fully insured, could lead to the public perception that Ryanair’s aircraft were less safe or reliable than those operated by other airlines, which could have a material adverse effect on Ryanair’s business.

 

EU Regulation No. 2027/97, as amended by Regulation No. 889/2002, governs air carrier liability. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Insurance” for details of this regulation. This regulation increased the potential liability exposure of air carriers such as Ryanair. Although Ryanair has extended its liability insurance to meet the requirements of the regulation, no assurance can be given that other laws, regulations, or policies will not be applied, modified or amended in a manner that has a material adverse effect on Ryanair’s business, operating results, and financial condition.

 

Airline Industry Margins are Subject to Significant Uncertainty. The airline industry is characterized by high fixed costs and by revenues that generally exhibit substantially greater elasticity than costs. Although fuel accounted for 43.8% of total operating expenses (excluding de-icing costs) in the 2009 fiscal year, management anticipates that this percentage may vary significantly in future years. See “—Changes in Fuel Costs and Fuel Availability Affect the Company’s Results and Increase the Likelihood that the Company May Incur Losses” above. The operating costs of each flight do not vary significantly with the number of passengers flown, and therefore, a relatively small change in the number of passengers, fare pricing, or traffic mix could have a disproportionate effect on operating and financial results. Accordingly, a relatively minor shortfall from expected revenue levels could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s growth or financial performance. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.” The very low marginal costs incurred for providing services to passengers occupying otherwise unsold seats are also a factor in the industry’s high susceptibility to price discounting. See “—The Company Faces Significant Price and Other Pressures in a Highly Competitive Environment” above.

 

Safety-Related Undertakings Could Affect the Company’s Results. Aviation authorities in Europe and the United States periodically require or suggest that airlines implement certain safety-related procedures on their aircraft. In recent years, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (the “FAA”) has required a number of such procedures with regard to Boeing 737 aircraft, including checks of rear pressure bulkheads and flight control modules, redesign of the rudder control system, and limitations on certain operating procedures. Ryanair’s policy is to implement any such required procedures in accordance with FAA guidance and to perform such procedures in close collaboration with Boeing. To date, all such procedures have been conducted as part of Ryanair’s standard maintenance program and have not interrupted flight schedules nor required any material increases in Ryanair’s maintenance expenses. However, there can be no assurance that the FAA or other regulatory authorities will not recommend or require other safety-related undertakings or that such undertakings would not adversely impact the Company’s operating results or financial condition.

 

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There also can be no assurance that new regulations will not be implemented in the future that would apply to Ryanair’s aircraft and result in an increase in Ryanair’s cost of maintenance or other costs beyond management’s current estimates. In addition, should Ryanair’s aircraft cease to be sufficiently reliable or should any public perception develop that Ryanair’s aircraft are less than completely reliable, the Company’s business could be materially adversely affected.

 

Currency Fluctuations Affect the Company’s Results. Although the Company is headquartered in Ireland, a significant portion of its operations is conducted in the U.K. Consequently, the Company has significant operating revenues and operating expenses, as well as assets and liabilities, denominated in U.K. pounds sterling. In addition, fuel, aircraft, insurance, and some maintenance obligations are denominated in U.S. dollars. The Company’s results of operations and financial condition can therefore be significantly affected by fluctuations in the respective values of the U.K. pound sterling and the U.S. dollar. Ryanair is particularly subject to direct exchange rate risks between the Euro and the U.S. dollar because a significant portion of its operating costs are incurred in U.S. dollars and none of its revenues are denominated in U.S. dollars. Although the Company engages in foreign currency hedging transactions between the Euro and the U.S. dollar, between the Euro and the U.K. pound sterling, and between the U.K. pound sterling and the U.S. dollar, hedging activities cannot be expected to eliminate currency risks. See “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Discussion About Market Risk.”

 

Risks Related to Ownership of the Company’s Ordinary Shares or ADRs

 

EU Rules Impose Restrictions on the Ownership of Ryanair Holdings’ Ordinary Shares by Non-EU Nationals, and the Company Has Instituted a Ban on the Purchase of Ordinary Shares by Non-EU Nationals. EU Regulation No. 2407/92 requires that, in order to obtain and retain an operating license, an EU air carrier must be majority-owned and effectively controlled by EU nationals. The regulation does not specify what level of share ownership will confer effective control on a holder or holders of shares. The board of directors of Ryanair Holdings is given certain powers under Ryanair Holdings’ articles of association (the “Articles”) to take action to ensure that the number of shares held in Ryanair Holdings by non-EU nationals (“Affected Shares”) does not reach a level that could jeopardize the Company’s entitlement to continue to hold or enjoy the benefit of any license, permit, consent, or privilege which it holds or enjoys and which enables it to carry on business as an air carrier. The directors, from time to time, set a “Permitted Maximum” on the number of the Company’s Ordinary Shares that may be owned by non-EU nationals at such level as they believe will comply with EU law. The Permitted Maximum is currently set at 49.9%. In addition, under certain circumstances, the directors can take action to safeguard the Company’s ability to operate by identifying those shares, American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”) or Affected Shares which give rise to the need to take action and treat such shares, the American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) evidencing such ADSs, or Affected Shares as “Restricted Shares.” The Board of Directors may, under certain circumstances, deprive holders of Restricted Shares of their rights to attend, vote at, and speak at general meetings, and/or require such holders to dispose of their Restricted Shares to an EU national within as little as 21 days. The directors are also given the power to transfer such shares themselves if a holder fails to comply. In 2002, the Company implemented measures to restrict the ability of non-EU nationals to purchase Ordinary Shares, and non-EU nationals are currently effectively barred from purchasing Ordinary Shares, and will remain so for as long as these restrictions remain in place. There can be no assurance that these restrictions will ever be lifted. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Limitations on Share Ownership by Non-EU Nationals” for a detailed discussion of restrictions on share ownership and the current ban on share purchases by non-EU nationals. As of June 30, 2009, EU nationals owned at least 53.4% of Ryanair Holdings’ Ordinary Shares (assuming conversion of all outstanding ADRs into Ordinary Shares).

 

Holders of Ordinary Shares are Currently Unable to Convert those Shares into American Depositary Receipts. In an effort to increase the percentage of its share capital held by EU nationals, on June 26, 2001, Ryanair Holdings instructed The Bank of New York, the depositary for its ADR program, to suspend the issuance of new ADRs in exchange for the deposit of Ordinary Shares until further notice. Holders of Ordinary Shares cannot convert their Ordinary Shares into ADRs during this suspension, and there can be no assurance that the suspension will ever be lifted. See also “—EU Rules Impose Restrictions on the Ownership of Ryanair Holdings’ Ordinary Shares by Non-EU nationals and the Company has Instituted a Ban on the Purchase of Ordinary Shares by Non-EU Nationals” above.

 

The Company’s Results of Operations May Fluctuate Significantly. The Company’s results of operations have varied significantly from quarter to quarter, and management expects these variations to continue. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Quarterly Fluctuations.” Among the factors causing these variations are the airline industry’s sensitivity to general economic conditions, the seasonal nature of air

 

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travel, as well as trends in airlines’ costs, especially fuel costs. Because a substantial portion of airline travel (both business and personal) is discretionary, the industry tends to experience adverse financial results during general economic downturns. The Company is substantially dependent on discretionary air travel.

 

The trading price of Ryanair Holdings’ Ordinary Shares and ADRs may be subject to wide fluctuations in response to quarterly variations in the Company’s operating results and the operating results of other airlines. In addition, the global stock markets from time to time experience extreme price and volume fluctuations that affect the market prices of many airline company stocks. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the market price of the Ordinary Shares and ADRs.

 

Ryanair Holdings Does Not Intend to Pay Dividends. Since its incorporation as the holding company for Ryanair in 1996, Ryanair Holdings has not declared or paid dividends on its Ordinary Shares and does not anticipate paying any cash or share dividends on its Ordinary Shares in the foreseeable future. See “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Financial Information—Dividend Policy.” As a holding company, Ryanair Holdings does not have any material assets other than the shares of Ryanair.

 

Item 4. Information on the Company

 

INTRODUCTION

 

Ryanair Holdings was incorporated in 1996 as a holding company for Ryanair Limited. The latter operates a low-fares, scheduled-passenger airline serving short-haul, point-to-point routes between Ireland, the U.K., Continental Europe, and Morocco. Incorporated in 1984, Ryanair Limited began to introduce a low-fares operating model under a new management team in the early 1990s. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—History.” At June 30, 2009, with its operating fleet of 196 Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft, Ryanair Limited offered more than 1,200 scheduled short-haul flights per day serving 145 locations throughout Europe and Morocco. See “—Route System, Scheduling and Fares—Route System and Scheduling” for more details of Ryanair’s route network. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Seasonal Fluctuations” for information about the seasonality of Ryanair’s business.

 

Ryanair recorded a loss on ordinary activities after taxation of €169.2 million in the 2009 fiscal year, as compared with a profit on ordinary activities after taxation of €390.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year. The loss, which was recorded notwithstanding an 8.4% increase in total operating revenues to €2,942.0 million from €2,713.8 million in the prior year, was primarily attributable to (i) a 58.9% increase in fuel and oil costs from €791.3 million to €1,257.1 million, (ii) an impairment charge of €222.5 million on the available-for-sale investment in Aer Lingus, reflecting a significant decline in the Aer Lingus share price from March 31, 2008 to March 31, 2009 and (iii) accelerated depreciation of €51.6 million arising from an agreement to dispose of aircraft in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and 2010. The increase in revenues reflected an increase of 5.7% in scheduled revenues and an increase of 22.5% in ancillary revenues. Ryanair generated an average booked passenger load factor of approximately 81% and average scheduled passenger revenue of €0.075 per ASM in the 2009 fiscal year. The Company has focused on maintaining low operating costs (€0.059 per ASM in the 2009 fiscal year).

 

The market’s acceptance of Ryanair’s low-fares service is reflected in the “Ryanair Effect”—Ryanair’s history of stimulating significant annual passenger traffic growth on the new routes on which it has commenced service since 1991. On the basis of the “U.K. Airports Annual Statement of Movements, Passengers and Cargo” published by the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority and statistics released by the International Civil Aviation Organization (the “ICAO”), the number of scheduled airline passengers traveling between Dublin and London increased from 1.7 million passengers in 1991 to 4.3 million passengers in the 2008 calendar year. Most international routes Ryanair has begun serving since 1991 have recorded significant traffic growth in the period following Ryanair’s commencement of service, with Ryanair capturing the largest portion of such growth on each such route. A variety of factors contributed to this increase in air passenger traffic, including the relative strength of the Irish, U.K., and European economies in past years. However, management believes that the most significant factors driving such growth across all its European routes have been Ryanair’s low-fares policy and its superiority to its competitors in terms of flight punctuality, levels of lost baggage, and rates of cancellations.

 

The address of Ryanair Holdings’ registered office is: c/o Ryanair Limited, Corporate Head Office, Dublin Airport, County Dublin, Ireland. The Company’s contact person regarding this Annual Report on Form 20-F is: Howard Millar, Chief Financial Officer (same address as above). The telephone number is +353-1-812-1212 and the facsimile number is +353-1-812-1213. Under its current Articles, Ryanair Holdings has an unlimited corporate duration.

 

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STRATEGY

 

Ryanair’s objective is to firmly establish itself as Europe’s leading scheduled passenger airline, through continued improvements and expanded offerings of its low-fares service. In the highly challenging current operating environment, Ryanair seeks to offer low fares that generate increased passenger traffic while maintaining a continuous focus on cost-containment and operating efficiencies. The key elements of Ryanair’s long-term strategy are:

 

Low Fares. Ryanair’s low fares are designed to stimulate demand, particularly from fare-conscious leisure and business travelers who might otherwise use alternative forms of transportation or choose not to travel at all. Ryanair sells seats on a one-way basis, thus eliminating minimum stay requirements from all travel on Ryanair scheduled services. Ryanair sets fares on the basis of the demand for particular flights and by reference to the period remaining to the date of departure of the flight, with higher fares charged on flights with higher levels of demand and for bookings made nearer to the date of departure. Ryanair also periodically runs special promotional fare campaigns. See “—Route System, Scheduling and Fares—Low and Widely Available Fares” below.

 

Customer Service. Ryanair’s strategy is to deliver the best customer service performance in its peer group. According to reports by the Association of European Airlines (“AEA”) and the airlines’ own published statistics, Ryanair has achieved better punctuality, fewer lost bags, and fewer cancellations than all of the rest of its peer group in Europe. Ryanair achieves this by focusing strongly on the execution of these services and by primarily operating from un-congested airports. Ryanair conducts a daily conference call with Ryanair and airport personnel at each of its base airports, during which the reasons for each flight delay and baggage short-shipment are discussed in detail and logged to ensure that the root cause is identified and rectified. Customer satisfaction is measured by regular online, mystery-passenger and employee surveys.

 

Frequent Point-to-Point Flights on Short-Haul Routes. Ryanair provides frequent point-to-point service on short-haul routes to secondary and regional airports in and around major population centers and travel destinations. In the 2009 fiscal year, Ryanair flew an average route length of 409 miles and average flight duration of approximately 1.55 hours. Short-haul routes allow Ryanair to offer its low fares and frequent service, while eliminating the need to provide unnecessary “frills,” like in-flight meals and movies, otherwise expected by customers on longer flights. Point-to-point flying (as opposed to hub-and-spoke service) allows Ryanair to offer direct, non-stop routes and avoid the costs of providing “through service,” for connecting passengers, including baggage transfer and transit passenger assistance.

 

In choosing its routes, Ryanair favors secondary airports with convenient transportation to major population centers and regional airports. Secondary and regional airports are generally less congested than major airports and, as a result, can be expected to provide higher rates of on-time departures, faster turnaround times (the time an aircraft spends at a gate loading and unloading passengers), fewer terminal delays, more competitive airport access, and lower handling costs. Ryanair’s “on time” performance record (arrivals within 15 minutes of schedule) for the 2009 fiscal year was 88%. According to comparative data from Aer Lingus, easyJet, and the AEA, Ryanair’s “on time” performance record exceeded that of its principal competitors, including: Aer Lingus (approximately 73%); Air France (approximately 84%); British Airways (approximately 78%); easyJet (approximately 71%); Lufthansa (approximately 84%); and Alitalia (approximately 76%). (Data for Alitalia excludes the period from November 2008 to January 12, 2009, as data for this period was not published.) Faster turnaround times are a key element in Ryanair’s efforts to maximize aircraft utilization. Ryanair’s average scheduled turnaround time for the 2009 fiscal year was approximately 25 minutes. Secondary and regional airports also generally do not maintain slot requirements or other operating restrictions that can increase operating expenses and limit the number of allowed take-offs and landings.

 

Low Operating Costs. Management believes that Ryanair’s operating costs are among the lowest of any European scheduled-passenger airline. Ryanair strives to reduce or control four of the primary expenses involved in running a major scheduled airline: (i) aircraft equipment costs; (ii) personnel costs; (iii) customer service costs; and (iv) airport access and handling costs:

 

Aircraft Equipment Costs. Ryanair’s primary strategy for controlling aircraft acquisition costs is to narrow its fleet of aircraft to a single type. Ryanair currently operates only “next generation” Boeing 737-800s. Ryanair’s continuous acquisition of new Boeing 737-800s has already and will continue to significantly increase the size of its fleet and thus significantly increase its aircraft equipment and related costs (on an aggregate basis). However, the purchase of aircraft from a single manufacturer enables Ryanair to limit the costs associated with personnel training, maintenance, and the purchase and storage of spare

 

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parts while also affording the Company greater flexibility in the scheduling of crews and equipment. Management also believes that the terms of its Boeing contracts are very favorable to Ryanair. See “—Aircraft” below for additional information on Ryanair’s fleet.

 

Personnel Costs. Ryanair endeavors to control its labor costs by seeking to continually improve the productivity of its already highly productive work force. Compensation for employees emphasizes productivity-based pay incentives. These incentives include discretionary sales bonuses for onboard sales of products for flight attendants and payments based on the number of hours or sectors flown by pilots and flight attendants within limits set by industry standards or regulations fixing maximum working hours.

 

Customer Service Costs. Ryanair has entered into agreements on competitive terms with external contractors at certain airports for ticketing, passenger and aircraft handling, and other services that management believes can be more cost-efficiently provided by third parties. Management attempts to obtain competitive rates for such services by negotiating fixed-price, multi-year contracts. The development of its own Internet booking facility has allowed Ryanair to eliminate travel agent commissions and third-party reservation systems costs. Ryanair generates virtually all of its scheduled passenger revenues through direct sales via its website.

 

Airport Access and Handling Costs. Ryanair attempts to control airport access and service charges by focusing on airports that offer competitive prices. Management believes that Ryanair’s record of delivering a consistently high volume of passenger traffic growth at many airports has allowed it to negotiate favorable contracts with such airports for access to their facilities. Ryanair further endeavors to reduce its airport charges by opting, when practicable, for less expensive gate locations as well as outdoor boarding stairs rather than more expensive jetways.

 

Taking Advantage of the Internet. In 2000, Ryanair converted its host reservation system to a new system, which it operates under a hosting agreement with Navitaire that will terminate in 2013. As part of the implementation of the new reservation system, Navitaire developed an Internet booking facility. The Ryanair system allows Internet users to access its host reservation system and to make and pay for confirmed reservations in real time through the Ryanair.com website. Since the launch of the Internet reservation system, Ryanair has heavily promoted its website through newspaper, radio and television advertising. As a result, Internet bookings grew rapidly, and have accounted for approximately 99% of all reservations over the past several years. On February 22, 2008, Ryanair upgraded the reservation system to a more scalable version, which offers more flexibility for future system enhancements and to accommodate the planned growth of Ryanair.

 

In addition, in March 2006, Ryanair introduced its Internet check-in service and has since introduced kiosk-based check-in systems at its main base at London (Stansted) and its bases in Belfast, Frankfurt (Hahn), in Germany, and Girona, in Spain. It currently plans to deploy similar kiosks, with credit card and payment facilities, to the majority of its bases over the next year. On March 10, 2009, the Company announced that with effect from October 1, 2009 it will move to 100% Internet-based check-in and that airport check-in facilities will no longer be available. The Company will replace these check-in desks with significantly fewer bag-drop desks. See “Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—The Company Faces Risks Related to its Internet Reservations Operations and its Announced Elimination of Airport Check-in Facilities.”

 

Commitment to Safety and Quality Maintenance. Safety is the primary priority of Ryanair and its management. This commitment begins with the hiring and training of Ryanair’s pilots, flight attendants, and maintenance personnel and includes a policy of maintaining its aircraft in accordance with the highest European airline industry standards. Ryanair has not had a single incident involving major injury to a passenger or a member of its flight crew in its 24-year operating history. Although Ryanair seeks to maintain its fleet in a cost-effective manner, management does not seek to extend Ryanair’s low-cost operating strategy to the areas of safety, maintenance, training or quality assurance. Routine aircraft maintenance and repair services are performed primarily by Ryanair, at Ryanair’s main bases, but are also performed at other base airports by maintenance contractors approved under the terms of Part 145. Ryanair currently performs heavy airframe maintenance, but contracts with other parties who perform engine overhaul services and rotable repairs. These contractors also provide similar services to a number of other airlines, including British Airways and Aer Lingus. Ryanair assigns a Part 145 certified mechanic to oversee engine overhauls performed by other parties.

 

Enhancement of Operating Results through Ancillary Services. Ryanair provides various ancillary services and engages in other activities connected with its core air passenger service, including non-flight scheduled services, the in-flight sale of beverages, food and merchandise and Internet-related services. As part of its non-flight services, Ryanair distributes accommodation, travel insurance and car rentals, principally through its website. Providing these services through the Internet allows Ryanair to increase sales, while at the same time reducing costs on a per-unit basis.

 

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For the 2009 fiscal year, ancillary services accounted for 20.3% of Ryanair’s total operating revenues, as compared to 18.0% of such revenues in the 2008 fiscal year. See “—Ancillary Services” below and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Results of Operations—Fiscal Year 2009 Compared with Fiscal Year 2008—Ancillary Revenues” for additional information.

 

Focused Criteria for Growth. Building on its success in the Ireland-U.K. market and its expansion of service to continental Europe and Morocco, Ryanair intends to follow a manageable growth plan targeting specific markets. Ryanair believes it will have opportunities for continued growth by: (i) initiating additional routes in the EU; (ii) initiating additional routes in countries party to a European Common Aviation Agreement with the EU that are currently served by higher-cost, higher-fare carriers; (iii) increasing the frequency of service on its existing routes; (iv) starting new domestic routes within individual EU countries; (v) considering acquisition opportunities that may become available in the future; (vi) connecting airports within its existing route network (“triangulation”); (vi) establishing new bases in continental Europe; and (vii) initiating new routes not currently served by any carrier.

 

During the 2007 fiscal year, the Company acquired 25.2% of Aer Lingus. The Company thereafter increased its interest to 29.3% during the 2008 fiscal year, and to 29.8% during the 2009 fiscal year at a total aggregate cost of €407.2 million. Following the acquisition of its initial stake and upon the approval of the Company’s shareholders, management proposed to effect a tender offer to acquire the entire share capital of Aer Lingus. This acquisition proposal was, however, blocked by the European Commission on competition grounds. Ryanair filed an appeal with the CFI, which was heard in July 2009, and currently expects the CFI to announce its decision approximately nine months thereafter.

 

On December 1, 2008, Ryanair made a new offer to acquire all of the ordinary shares of Aer Lingus it did not own at a price of €1.40 per ordinary share. Ryanair offered to keep Aer Lingus as a separate company, maintain the Aer Lingus brand, and retain its Heathrow slots and connectivity. Ryanair also proposed to double Aer Lingus’ short-haul fleet from 33 to 66 aircraft and to create 1,000 associated new jobs over a five-year period. If the offer had been accepted, the Irish government would have received over €180 million in cash. The employee share option trust and employees who own 18% of Aer Lingus would have received over €137 million in cash. The Company met Aer Lingus management, representatives of the employee share option trust and other parties. The offer of €1.40 per share represented a premium of approximately 25% over the closing price of €1.12 of Aer Lingus on November 28, 2008. However, as the Company was unable to secure the shareholders’ support (to sell their stakes in Aer Lingus to Ryanair), the Company decided on January 28, 2009, to withdraw its new offer for Aer Lingus.

 

See “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings—Aer Lingus Merger Decision.”

 

Responding to Current Challenges. In recent periods, and with increased effect in the 2008 and 2009 fiscal years, Ryanair’s low-cost, low-fares model has faced substantial pressure due to significantly increased fuel costs and reduced economic growth (or economic contraction) in the economies in which it operates. The Company has aimed to meet these challenges by: (i) selectively grounding aircraft, including 20 aircraft that the Company grounded over the 2008-2009 winter season; (ii) disposing of aircraft (increasing its disposals from six in the 2008 fiscal year to approximately 17 in the 2009 fiscal year); (iii) controlling labor and other costs, including through wage freezes, selective redundancies and the introduction of Internet check-in; and (iv) renegotiating contracts with existing suppliers, airports and handling companies. There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in doing these things or that doing so will allow the Company earn profits in any period. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Changes in Fuel Costs and Fuel Availability Affect the Company’s Results and Increase the Likelihood that the Company May Incur Losses” and “—The Company May Not Be Successful in Raising Fares to Offset Increased Business Costs.”

 

The Company has recently announced capacity reductions, primarily at Dublin Airport, the most expensive airport in terms of airport charges that Ryanair serves. As a result of this airport’s high charges, certain routes are not economically viable to operate during the winter when the Company typically experiences lower load factors and fares. In June 2009, Ryanair announced that it was reducing its fleet at Dublin Airport to 17 by summer 2009 and 16 by winter 2009 (down from 22 in summer 2008 and 20 in winter 2008) as a result of rising airport charges and the introduction of an Air Travel Tax of €10 on all passengers departing from Irish airports on routes longer than 300 kilometers. The Company has also recently announced that it plans to freeze all growth in the United Kingdom and to reduce capacity at its London (Stansted) base by 40% between October 2009 and March 2010. See “Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Ryanair Has Decided to Freeze its Development in the U.K. Market and Curtail Certain U.K. Operations.”

 

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ROUTE SYSTEM, SCHEDULING AND FARES

 

Route System and Scheduling

 

As of June 30, 2009, the Company offered over 1,200 scheduled short-haul flights per day serving 145 locations throughout Europe and Morocco, and flying approximately 845 routes. The following table lists Ryanair’s top ten routes during the 2009 fiscal year by number of passengers, as well as the date service commenced on each such route. These routes in the aggregate accounted for 9.0% of the Company’s scheduled passenger volume in the 2009 fiscal year.

 

Route Served

   Date service
commenced

Between Dublin and London (Stansted)

   Nov-88

Between Dublin and London (Gatwick)

   Nov-94

Between London (Stansted) and Rome (Ciampino)

   Apr-02

Between Dublin and Manchester

   May-94

Between Milan (Bergamo) and Rome (Ciampino)

   Mar-06

Between London (Stansted) and Milan (Bergamo)

   Apr-02

Between Glasgow (Prestwick) and London (Stansted)

   Oct-95

Between Dublin and Birmingham

   Oct-93

Between Dublin and London (Luton)

   Jan-86

Between Dublin and Cork

   Nov-05

 

See Note 17, “Analysis of operating revenues and segmental analysis,” to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 for more information regarding the geographical sources of the Company’s revenue.

 

Management’s objective is to schedule a sufficient number of flights per day on each of Ryanair’s routes to satisfy demand for Ryanair’s low-fares service. Ryanair schedules departures on its most popular routes at frequent intervals, normally between approximately 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. Management regularly reviews the need for adjustments in the number of flights on all of its routes.

 

During the 2009 fiscal year, Ryanair announced 236 new routes originating from Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the U.K. The Company has recently announced capacity reductions at Dublin and London (Stansted) airports and a freeze on its growth in the U.K. See “Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Ryanair Has Decided to Freeze its Development in the U.K. Market and Curtail Certain U.K. Operations.”

 

Low and Widely Available Fares

 

Ryanair offers low fares, with prices generally varying on the basis of advance booking, seat availability and demand. Ryanair sells seats on a one-way basis, thus removing minimum stay requirements from all travel on Ryanair scheduled services. All tickets can be changed, subject to certain conditions, including fee payment and applicable upgrade charges. However, tickets are non-cancelable and non-refundable and must be paid for at the time of reservation.

 

Ryanair’s discounted fares are “capacity controlled” in that Ryanair allocates a specific number of seats on each flight to each fare category to accommodate projected demand for seats at each fare level leading up to flight time. Ryanair generally makes its lowest fares widely available by allocating a majority of its seat inventory to its lowest fare categories. Management believes that its unrestricted fares as well as its advance-purchase fares are attractive to both business and leisure travelers.

 

When launching a new route, Ryanair’s policy is to price its lowest fare so that it will be significantly lower than other carriers’ lowest fares, but still provide a satisfactory operating margin.

 

Ryanair also periodically runs special promotional fare campaigns, in particular in connection with the opening of new routes, and endeavors to always offer the lowest fare on any route it serves. Ryanair offers weekday one-way fares starting at €1 on many of its routes, and offers lower-fare trips on certain routes from time to time. Promotional fares may have the effect of increasing load factors and reducing Ryanair’s yield and passenger revenues on the relevant routes during the periods they are in effect. Ryanair expects to continue to offer significant fare promotions to stimulate demand in periods of lower activity or during off-peak times for the foreseeable future.

 

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MARKETING AND ADVERTISING

 

Ryanair’s primary marketing strategy is to emphasize its widely available low fares and price guarantee. In doing so, Ryanair primarily advertises its services in national and regional newspapers, as well as through controversial and topical advertising, press conferences and publicity stunts. Other marketing activities include the distribution of advertising and promotional material and cooperative advertising campaigns with other travel-related entities, including local tourist boards.

 

RESERVATIONS ON RYANAIR.COM

 

Passenger airlines generally rely on travel agents (whether traditional or online) for a significant portion of their ticket sales and pay travel agents commissions for their services, as well as reimbursing them for the fees charged by reservation systems-providers. Following the introduction of its Internet-based reservations and ticketing service, which now allows passengers to make reservations and purchase tickets directly through the Company’s website, Ryanair’s reliance on travel agents has been eliminated. See “—Strategy—Taking Advantage of the Internet” above for additional information.

 

On February 22, 2008, Ryanair upgraded its reservation system in order to facilitate the continued expansion of the airline. The existing reservation system had been developed in the 1990s and was approaching its capacity in terms of the total number of passenger transactions processed each year. The upgraded system is much more scalable and will be able to cope with the planned growth of Ryanair. In addition, the new system will also give the Company the ability to offer more enhancements to passengers, as the new platform is far more flexible in terms of future development.

 

Under the agreement with the system-provider, Navitaire, the system will serve as Ryanair’s core seating inventory and booking system. In return for access to these system functions, Ryanair will pay transaction fees that are generally based on the number of passenger seat journeys booked through the system. Navitaire will also retain a back-up booking engine to support operations in the event of a breakdown in the main system. Over the last several years, Ryanair has introduced a number of Internet-based customer service enhancements such as Internet check-in and priority boarding service and it recently announced that it would move to 100% Internet check-in. These enhancements are focused on reducing waiting time at airports and speeding a passenger’s journey from arrival at the airport to boarding, as well as significantly reducing airport handling costs. Ryanair has also introduced a checked-bag fee and an airport check-in fee, which are payable on the Internet and are aimed at reducing the number of bags carried by passengers in order to further reduce ongoing handling costs. As a result of the introduction of the new system, Ryanair intends to continue to deliver further passenger service enhancements by introducing Internet-based facilities to enable passengers to manage their own bookings, including through the aforementioned transition to 100% Internet check-in.

 

AIRCRAFT

 

Aircraft

 

As of June 30, 2009, Ryanair’s operating fleet was composed of 196 Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft, each having 189 seats. Ryanair’s fleet totaled 181 Boeing 737-800s at March 31, 2009. The Company expects to have an operating fleet comprising 232 Boeing 737-800s at March 31, 2010.

 

Between March 1999 and June 30, 2009, Ryanair took delivery of 222 new Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft under its contracts with Boeing (and disposed of 26 such aircraft). The new Boeing 737-800s share certain basic characteristics with Ryanair’s prior fleet of Boeing 737-200A aircraft, all of which were retired by December 2005. However, the new aircraft are larger (seating up to 189 passengers, as compared to 130 in the Boeing 737-200As), capable of longer flights without refueling, and incorporate more advanced aviation technology. The Boeing 737-800s also comply with Chapter 3 noise reduction requirements established by the ICAO, which took effect in the EU in 2002.

 

Ryanair entered into a series of agreements with Boeing for Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft starting in 1998. As of January 2005, 89 firm-order aircraft remained to be delivered under those agreements, and the Company had options to purchase an additional 123 aircraft. On February 24, 2005, the Company announced that it had entered into a new agreement with Boeing for the purchase of a further 70 new Boeing 737-800s as well as purchase options for an additional 70 such aircraft.

 

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Under the terms of the 2005 Boeing contract, while the basic price per aircraft that was applicable under the prior contracts continued to apply the firm-order aircraft that remained to be delivered and purchase options outstanding thereunder, these firm-order and option aircraft became subject to the commercial and other terms applicable to the firm-order aircraft under the 2005 Boeing contract, including benefiting from more favorable price concessions.

 

In addition, as part of the 2005 contract with Boeing, the Company ensured that “winglets,” or wing-tip extensions, manufactured by Aviation Partners Boeing (“APB”) would be incorporated into all aircraft to be delivered to the Company under its contracts with Boeing from January 2006 onwards. The cost of these winglets is included in the net price of each aircraft. APB agreed to supply the winglets at a discounted rate for all of the Boeing 737-800s delivered to Ryanair prior to January 2006. The cost of retrofitting all of these winglets was borne by Ryanair and the retrofitting was carried out during routine maintenance at the Company’s facility at Glasgow (Prestwick). The winglets are attached to the existing wings and improve the aerodynamics of the aircraft; as a result, the aircraft consume less fuel per flight-hour. The winglet modification program has proved effective, with better aircraft performance and a reduction of approximately 4% in each aircraft’s consumption of fuel per hour flown.

 

Beginning in June 2005, the Company exercised a number of purchase options to acquire new Boeing 737-800 aircraft. These exercised purchase options are detailed in the table below.

 

Date(s) Purchase Option Exercised

   No. of Aircraft   

Delivery Dates Agreed Upon

June 2005

   5    Feb. 2007 to May 2007

October 2005

   9    Sept. 2007 to Nov. 2007

June 2006

   10    March 2008 to June 2009

August 2006

   32    Sept. 2009 to June 2009

April 2007

   27    Sept. 2009 to March 2010

June 2008, September 2008, October 2008 and January 2009

   30    June 2010 to March 2011

 

As of June 30, 2009, Ryanair expects to take delivery of an additional 116 aircraft under its contracts with Boeing over the period to March 31, 2012. These deliveries will increase the size of Ryanair’s fleet to 292 by March 2012 (assuming that the planned disposal or return of 20 such aircraft is completed on schedule) or more should Ryanair choose to exercise any of the additional 10 options to purchase aircraft remaining under its existing purchase contracts with Boeing.

 

As of June 30, 2009, Ryanair had sold 25 Boeing 737-800 aircraft to third parties, as detailed in the table below. Depending on market conditions and various other considerations, Ryanair expects to either dispose of 20 further aircraft (in addition to those listed in the table below) or return such aircraft to the relevant lessor during the period through December 31, 2012. (The foregoing does not take into account an aircraft involved in a bird strike at Rome (Ciampino) airport in November 2008, which has been retained but not repaired and is thus listed as a disposal in the table on page 49, bringing the total number of past and future disposals and/or returns to 46.)

 

Sale Agreement Dated

  

Aircraft

Model Year

   No. of
Aircraft
   Delivered
Aircraft
  

Disposal Periods

May 2007

   1999    5    5    Sept. 2008 to Dec. 2008

July 2007

   2000, 2001 and 2002    15    15    Mar. 2008 to Apr. 2009

May 2008

   2002    5    5    Nov. 2008 to Apr. 2009

 

For additional details on the Boeing contracts, scheduled aircraft deliveries and related expenditures and their financing, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources.” Furthermore, following the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. dollar over the last number of years, the absolute cost in Euro terms of aircraft has been substantially reduced.

 

Management believes that the purchase of the additional new Boeing 737-800 aircraft will allow Ryanair to continue to grow over the next three years. Management also believes that the significant size of its orders allowed Ryanair to obtain favorable purchase terms, guaranteed deliveries, and a standard configuration for all of the aircraft it purchased.

 

The Boeing 737 is the world’s most widely used commercial aircraft and exists in a number of generations, the Boeing 737-800s being the most recent. Management believes that spare parts and cockpit crews qualified to fly these aircraft are likely to be more widely available on favorable terms than similar resources for other types

 

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of aircraft. Management believes that its strategy of having reduced its fleet to one aircraft type enables Ryanair to limit the costs associated with personnel training, the purchase and storage of spare parts, and maintenance. Furthermore this strategy affords Ryanair greater flexibility in the scheduling of crews and equipment. The Boeing 737-800s are fitted with CFM 56-7B engines and have advanced CAT III Autoland capability, advanced traffic collision avoidance systems, and enhanced ground-proximity warning systems.

 

At March 31, 2009, the average aircraft age of the Company’s Boeing 737-800 fleet was 2.77 years, and no aircraft was more than 8 years old.

 

Training and Regulatory Compliance

 

Ryanair currently owns and operates four Boeing 737-800 flight simulators for pilot training, the first of which was delivered in 2002. The simulators were purchased from CAE Electronics Ltd. of Quebec, Canada (“CAE”). The second simulator was delivered in 2004, while the third and fourth simulators were delivered in the 2008 fiscal year. In September 2006, Ryanair entered into a new contract with CAE to purchase five B737NG Level B flight simulators. The first two of these simulators were delivered in the 2009 fiscal year and are now fully operational. This contract also provides Ryanair with an option to purchase another five such simulators. The gross price of each simulator is approximately $8 million, not taking into account certain price concessions provided by the seller in the form of credit memoranda and discounts.

 

Management believes that Ryanair is currently in compliance with all applicable regulations and EU directives concerning its fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft and will comply with any regulations or EU directives that may come into effect in the future. However, there can be no assurance that the FAA or other regulatory authorities will not recommend or require other safety-related undertakings that could adversely impact the Company’s results of operations or financial condition. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Safety-Related Undertakings Could Affect the Company’s Results.”

 

ANCILLARY SERVICES

 

Ryanair provides various ancillary services and engages in other activities connected with its core air passenger service, including non-flight scheduled services, Internet-related services, and the in-flight sale of beverages, food, and merchandise. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Results of Operations—Fiscal Year 2008 Compared with Fiscal Year 2007—Ancillary Revenues” for additional information.

 

As part of its non-flight scheduled and Internet-related services, Ryanair distributes accommodation services through its website and travel insurance through both its website and its telephone reservation offices. Ryanair also sells bus and rail tickets onboard its aircraft and through its website. Ryanair incentivizes ground service providers at all of the airports it serves to levy correct excess baggage charges for any baggage that exceeds Ryanair’s published baggage allowances and to collect these charges in accordance with Ryanair’s standard terms and conditions. The Company also charges customers a fixed handling fee for debit and credit card transactions. Excess baggage charges and debit and credit handling fees are recorded as components of non-flight scheduled revenue.

 

In addition, Ryanair has a contract with the Hertz Corporation (“Hertz”), pursuant to which Hertz handles all car rental services marketed through Ryanair’s website or telephone reservation system. Hertz pays a per passenger fee to Ryanair. For hotel services, Ryanair has a contract with Booking.com, pursuant to which Booking.com handles all aspects of such services and pays a fee to Ryanair. Ryanair also has contracts with other accommodation providers that enable it to offer camping, hostels, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and villas to its customers. Furthermore, in January 2008 Ryanair signed a contract with Costa Cruises pursuant to which the latter now handles all cruise bookings made via www.ryanair.com. Costa Cruises pays Ryanair a per-passenger fee.

 

Ryanair also sells gift vouchers on www.ryanair.com. Such gift vouchers are redeemable online.

 

Ryanair has agreements with MBNA and GE Capital Bank (“GE Capital”), both issuers of Visa credit cards. Pursuant to these agreements, the Company promotes Ryanair-branded credit cards issued by MBNA and GE Capital onboard its aircraft, on its Internet site, and via direct marketing at airports served by Ryanair in the U.K., Ireland, Poland and Sweden. The MBNA agreement relates to Irish residents only and the GE Capital agreement relates to U.K., Swedish and Polish residents only. Ryanair generates revenues from MBNA and GE Capital on the basis of the number of cards issued and the revenues generated through the use of the credit cards.

 

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In April 2008, Ryanair entered into a contract with On Air, a provider of mobile voice and data solutions for aircraft, for the provision of an in-flight communications service that will allow Ryanair passengers to use mobile phone and electronic communication devices such as Blackberries while onboard Ryanair aircraft. Ryanair will pay a one-off fee for the equipment and bear the cost of its installation on Ryanair aircraft. Ryanair will receive commissions on mobile calls made and text messages and emails sent using the service, which will be billed to customers based on international roaming rates. This service is currently in trials on Dublin, Rome (Ciampino), Pisa and Milan (Bergamo)-based aircraft. Subject to the successful completion of these trials, the service is expected to be rolled out across the Ryanair fleet.

 

MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS

 

General

 

As part of its commitment to safety, Ryanair endeavors to hire qualified maintenance personnel, provide proper training to such personnel, and maintain its aircraft in accordance with European industry standards. While Ryanair seeks to maintain its fleet in a cost-effective manner, management does not seek to extend Ryanair’s low-cost operating strategy to the areas of maintenance, training or quality control.

 

Ryanair’s quality assurance department deals with oversight of all maintenance activities in accordance with Part 145. The European Aviation Safety Agency (“EASA”), which established Part 145, came into being on September 28, 2003, through the adoption of Regulation (EC) No. 1592/2002 of the European Parliament, and its standards superseded the previous Joint Aviation Authority (“JAA”) requirements. See “—Government Regulation—Regulatory Authorities.”

 

Ryanair is itself an EASA Part 145-approved maintenance contractor and provides its own routine aircraft maintenance and repair services. Ryanair also performs certain checks on its aircraft, including pre-flight, daily, and transit checks at some of its bases, as well as A-checks at its Dublin, London (Stansted), and Bremen facilities. Since December 2003, Ryanair has operated a two-bay hangar facility at its base at Glasgow (Prestwick) in Scotland, where it carries out A-checks and C-checks on the fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The facility performs two C-checks per week, enabling Ryanair to perform all of its current heavy maintenance requirements on its Boeing 737-800 fleet in-house. Ryanair opened a 12,000 square meter 5 bay hangar and stores facility at its London (Stansted) airport base in October 2008 to allow Ryanair to carry out additional line maintenance on its expanding fleet. This facility also incorporates 2 flight simulator devices with space and provisions for 2 more, together with a cabin crew trainer and associated training rooms.

 

Maintenance and repair services that may become necessary while an aircraft is located at one of the other airports served by Ryanair are provided by other Part 145-approved contract maintenance providers. Aircraft return each evening to Ryanair’s bases, where they are examined by Ryanair’s approved engineers (or, in the case of Brussels (Charleroi), Stockholm (Skvasta), Rome (Ciampino), Frankfurt (Hahn), Milan (Bergamo), Marseille, Barcelona (Girona), Madrid, Alicante and Dusseldorf (Weeze), by local Part 145-approved companies).

 

Heavy Maintenance

 

As noted above, Ryanair currently has sufficient capacity to be able to carry out all of the routine maintenance work required on its Boeing 737-800 fleet itself. However, Ryanair occasionally contracts with outside maintenance providers for some heavy maintenance services that it cannot accommodate in its own facilities. In those circumstances Ryanair enters into short-term, ad hoc contracts with reputable Part 145-approved suppliers of heavy maintenance in the U.K. and Europe, such as ATC Lasham, for the carrying-out of the heavy maintenance overhauls currently required on its relatively new fleet.

 

Although Ryanair believes that it has sufficient capacity at its existing London (Stansted) and Glasgow (Prestwick) facilities to accommodate the additional maintenance requirements that it expects to arise beginning in winter 2010 due to the aging and expansion of its fleet, Ryanair is also negotiating with several European airports from which it operates to build a new hangar facility. Ryanair contracts out engine overhaul service for its Boeing 737-800 aircraft to General Electric Engine Services of Cardiff, Wales, a Part 145-approved contractor, pursuant to a 10-year agreement with an option for a 10-year extension, signed in 2004. This comprehensive maintenance contract provides for the repair and overhaul of the CFM56-7 series engines fitted to the first 155 of Ryanair’s Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the repair of parts and general technical support for the fleet of engines. On June 30, 2008, the Company finalized a contract for a similar level of coverage and support for the

 

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engines on all of its aircraft that have been or are scheduled to be delivered as well as any option aircraft delivered pursuant to the Company’s current contracts with Boeing over the period through December 2011. By contracting with experienced Part 145-approved maintenance providers, management believes it is better able to ensure the quality of its aircraft and engine maintenance. Ryanair assigns a Part 145-certified mechanic to oversee all heavy maintenance and to authorize all engine overhauls performed by third parties. Maintenance providers are also monitored closely by the national authorities under EASA and national regulations.

 

Ryanair expects to be dependent on external service contractors, particularly for engine and component maintenance, for the foreseeable future, notwithstanding the additional capabilities provided by its maintenance facilities at Glasgow (Prestwick) and London (Stansted). See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—The Company Is Dependent on External Service Providers.”

 

SAFETY RECORD

 

During its 24-year operating history, Ryanair has not had a single incident involving major injury to a passenger or a member of its flight crew. Ryanair manifests its commitment to safe operations through its safety training procedures, its investment in safety-related equipment, and its adoption of an internal confidential reporting system for safety issues. The Company’s board of directors also has an air safety committee to review and discuss air safety and related issues. Michael Horgan, a Company director, is the chairman of this committee and reports to the board of directors.

 

Ryanair’s flight training is oriented towards accident prevention and covers all aspects of flight operations. Ryanair maintains full control of the content and delivery of all of its flight crew training, including initial, recurrent, and upgrade phases. All training programs are approved by the Irish Aviation Authority (the “IAA”), which regularly audits both operation control standards and flight crew training standards for compliance with EU legislation.

 

All of the Boeing 737-800s that Ryanair has bought or committed to buy are certified for Category IIIA landings (automatic landings with minimum horizontal visibility of 200 meters and no vertical visibility).

 

Ryanair has a comprehensive and documented safety management system. Management encourages flight crews to report any safety-related issues through the Safety Alert Initial Report reporting program or to use the confidential reporting system, which is available through Ryanair’s Flight Safety Offices. The confidential reporting system affords flight crews the opportunity to report directly to senior management any event, error, or discrepancy in flight operations that they do not wish to report through standard reporting channels. The confidential reporting system is designed to increase management’s awareness of problems that may be encountered by flight crews in their day-to-day operations. Management uses the information reported through all reporting systems to modify operating procedures and improve flight operation standards.

 

Ryanair has installed an Operational Flight Data Monitoring (OFDM) system on each of its Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which automatically provides a confidential report on the procedures followed by pilots. The purpose of this system is to monitor operational trends and inform management of any instance of an operational limit being exceeded. By analyzing these reports, management is able to identify potential areas of risk and take steps to rectify any deviations from normal operating procedures, thereby ensuring adherence to Ryanair’s flight safety standards.

 

In November 2008, a Ryanair aircraft suffered a multiple bird strike during its final approach to Rome (Ciampino) airport. This incident caused substantial damage to the aircraft and both engines, which resulted in an insurance claim being filed in respect of this aircraft. The damage that it suffered was such that the aircraft was not repaired. It is scheduled as a “disposal” in the table on page 49, although Ryanair has retained ownership of it.

 

AIRPORT OPERATIONS

 

Airport Handling Services

 

Ryanair provides its own aircraft and passenger handling and ticketing services at Dublin Airport. Third parties provide these services to Ryanair at most other airports it serves. Servisair plc provides Ryanair’s ticketing, passenger and aircraft handling, and ground handling services at many of these airports in Ireland and the U.K. (excluding London Stansted Airport where these services are provided primarily by Swissport Ltd.), while similar services in continental Europe are generally provided by the local airport authorities, either directly

 

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or through sub-contractors. Management attempts to obtain competitive rates for such services by negotiating multi-year contracts at fixed prices, although some may have periodic increases linked to inflation. These contracts are generally scheduled to expire in one to five years, unless renewed, and certain of them may be terminated by either party before their expiry upon prior notice. Ryanair will need to enter into similar agreements in any new markets it may enter. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—The Company Is Dependent on External Service Providers.”

 

During 2009, Ryanair introduced kiosks for the issuance of boarding passes and the provision of other services. The Company has these kiosks in operation at London (Stansted), Frankfurt (Hahn), Belfast and Girona (Barcelona) and plans to eventually extend them to all of its main bases. These, together with the introduction of Internet check-in and the reduction in the number of bags carried by passengers, is expected to enable Ryanair to achieve reductions in airport handling costs.

 

Airport Charges

 

As with other airlines, Ryanair must pay airport charges each time it lands and accesses facilities at the airports it serves. Depending on the policy of the individual airport, such charges can include landing fees, passenger loading fees, security fees and parking fees. Ryanair attempts to negotiate discounted fees by delivering annual increases in passenger traffic, and opts, when practicable, for less expensive facilities, such as less convenient gates and the use of outdoor boarding stairs rather than more expensive jetways. Nevertheless, there can be no assurance that the airports Ryanair uses will not impose higher airport charges in the future and that any such increases would not adversely affect the Company’s operations.

 

The Irish Commission for Aviation Regulation (“CAR”) is currently responsible for regulating charges at Dublin Airport. In late September 2005, the CAR approved an increase in airport charges of more than 22% (effective January 1, 2006). On March 30, 2006, following an appeal by the DAA, charges at Dublin Airport were increased by an additional 3%. On September 5, 2006, the CAR announced the launch of a public consultation to review and obtain feedback on the levels of airport charges at Dublin Airport. In September 2007, the CAR announced its decision not to change the cap on airport charges but appeared to allow approximately €1.2 billion of additional planned capital expenditures (which includes approximately €800 million for the new terminal) to be counted towards the regulated asset base (which would enable the DAA to substantially increase charges from 2010 onwards). Ryanair challenged this decision in the Irish High Court but was unsuccessful. The High Court did, however, confirm that the CAR’s decision was a “determination” within the meaning of the Aviation Regulation Act 2001 and that Ryanair is therefore entitled to appeal this decision to an Independent Appeals Panel established by the Minister for Transport. In December 2008, the Appeals Panel issued its decision in which it criticized the CAR for its “passive approach” to regulating the DAA monopoly and found that the new terminal planned by the DAA (“Terminal 2”) was “considerably oversized” and that DAA should have to bear the full risk for that over-sizing. Despite the Panel’s findings, the CAR has refused to reduce airport charges. In June 2009, the CAR issued its draft decision on charges at Dublin Airport and, based on this draft decision, Ryanair anticipates that the cost per passenger for fiscal 2010 will likely increase by 13%. In June 2009, Ryanair announced that it was reducing its fleet at Dublin Airport to 17 by summer 2009 and 16 by winter 2009 (down from 22 in summer 2008 and 20 in winter 2008) as a result of rising airport charges and the introduction of an Air Travel Tax of €10 on all passengers departing from Irish airports on routes longer than 300 kilometers.

 

In March 2007, the discount arrangement formerly in place at London (Stansted) airport terminated, subjecting Ryanair to an average increase in charges of approximately 100%. The increase in these charges, which was passed on in the form of higher ticket prices, had a negative impact on yields and passenger volumes in the winter resulting in Ryanair’s decision to ground seven aircraft. Ryanair responded to the increases by filing complaints with the U.K. Office of Fair Trading (“OFT”) and the U.K. Competition Commission (“Competition Commission”), calling for the break-up of the British Airports Authority plc (“BAA”) monopoly and the introduction of competition in the London airports market. The OFT referred the matter to the Competition Commission, whose preliminary findings were released in April 2008. The Competition Commission found that the common ownership by BAA of the three main airports in London affects competition and that a “light touch” approach by the Civil Aviation Authority was adversely impacting competition. The Competition Commission has since ordered the break-up of BAA, a reorganization that will require the sale of both London (Gatwick) and London (Stansted) airports and either Glasgow or Edinburgh Airport in Scotland. In the meantime, however, costs at London (Stansted) remain high.

 

Following the December 2003 publication of the U.K. government’s White Paper on Airport Capacity in the Southeast of England, the BAA in 2004 announced plans to spend up to £4 billion on a multi-year project to construct a second runway and additional terminal facilities at London (Stansted) airport with a target opening

 

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date of 2013. Ryanair and other airlines using London (Stansted) support the principle of a second runway at London (Stansted), but are opposed to this development because they believe that the financing of what they consider to be an overblown project will lead to airport costs approximately doubling from current levels. Following the final decision of the U.K. Competition Commission forcing BAA to sell London (Stansted), it is highly unlikely that BAA’s planned £4 billion program will proceed, and Ryanair intends to work with the new owners to develop appropriate low-cost facilities.

 

Ryanair announced on July 21, 2009 that, as a result of the U.K. government’s APD tourist tax (discussed above) and the continuing high costs of operating at its London (Stansted) base, it would implement a 40% reduction in capacity at such base between October 2009 and March 2010. In particular, the Company will reduce its London (Stansted)-based aircraft from the current 40 to 24 during the aforementioned period. This reduction in capacity will accompany a 30% reduction in the number of weekly Ryanair flights to and from the airport, and is expected to result in 2.5 million fewer passenger trips during the period.

 

With respect to Ryanair’s bases in Ireland, the DAA has announced plans to build a second terminal (“Terminal 2”) at Dublin Airport. When this was first announced, the DAA estimated that the proposed expansion would cost between €170 million and €200 million. Ryanair supported a development of this scale; however, in September 2006, the DAA announced that the construction of Terminal 2 would cost approximately €600 million. Subsequently, the projected cost of the new terminal has risen to in excess of €1.0 billion. Ryanair opposes expansion at what it believes to be an excessive cost. On August 29, 2007, the planning authority approved a planning application from the DAA for the building of Terminal 2, a second runway, and other facilities. The new construction is subject to a capacity restriction of 32 million passengers, and the runway is subject to limits in its hours of operation. The approval will mean that charges at Dublin Airport will increase significantly, possibly doubling from their current level. Ryanair sought a judicial review of the planning approval. However, this appeal was not successful. The doubling of airport charges, as a result of this development, could have an adverse impact on yields and passenger volumes at Dublin Airport, as the Company may be forced to reduce capacity to compensate for the increased charges. In June 2009, Ryanair announced that it was reducing its fleet at Dublin Airport from 17 down to just 16 as a result of rising airport charges and the introduction of an Air Travel Tax of €10 on all passengers departing from Irish airports on routes longer than 300 kilometers.

 

The introduction of the €10 tax has likely had a negative impact on passengers traveling to and from Ireland. The DAA has reported that passenger volumes fell by 5% in April and 15% in May, in each case compared against the prior-year numbers. Ryanair believes that this is partly reflective of the negative impact of the tax on Irish travel. Ryanair has called for the elimination of the tax to stimulate tourism during the recession. The Company has cited the example of the Dutch government, which withdrew its travel tax with effect from July 1, 2009. The Dutch travel tax had ranged from €11 for short-haul flights to €45 for long-haul flights and had resulted in a significant decline in passenger volumes at Schiphol Airport, Holland’s main airport, according to data published by the airport.

 

See “Item 3. Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Ryanair’s Continued Growth is Dependent on Access to Suitable Airports; Charges for Airport Access are Subject to Increase.” See also “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings—EU State Aid-Related Proceedings” for information regarding legal proceedings in which Ryanair’s economic arrangements with several publicly owned airports are being contested.

 

FUEL

 

The cost of jet fuel accounted for 43.8% and 36.1% of Ryanair’s total operating expenses in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively (in each case, this accounts for costs after giving effect to the Company’s fuel hedging activities but excludes de-icing costs, which accounted for 0.8% and 0.7% of total fuel costs in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively). Jet fuel costs experienced substantial variance in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and 2008. The future availability and cost of jet fuel cannot be predicted with any degree of certainty, and Ryanair’s low-fares policy limits its ability to pass on increased fuel costs to passengers through increased fares. Jet fuel prices are dependent on crude oil prices, which are quoted in U.S. dollars. If the value of the U.S. dollar, which is near historical lows, rises against the Euro, Ryanair’s fuel costs, expressed in Euro, may increase even absent any increase in the U.S. dollar price of crude oil. Ryanair has also entered into foreign currency swaps to hedge against some currency fluctuations. See “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Foreign Currency Exposure and Hedging.”

 

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Ryanair has historically entered into arrangements providing for substantial protection against fluctuations in fuel prices, generally through forward contracts covering periods of up to 18 months of anticipated jet fuel requirements. Ryanair (like many other airlines) has, in more recent periods, entered into hedging arrangements on a much more selective basis. Ryanair has entered into forward jet fuel (jet kerosene) contracts covering approximately 90% of its estimated requirements for the period from April to December 2009 at prices equivalent to approximately $620 per metric ton. In addition, Ryanair has entered into forward jet fuel (jet kerosene) contracts covering approximately 60% of its estimated requirements for the period from January 2010 to March 2010 at prices equivalent to $610 per metric ton. See “Item 3. Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Changes in Fuel Costs and Fuel Availability Affect the Company’s Results and Increase the Likelihood that the Company May Incur Losses” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Fuel Price Exposure and Hedging” for additional information on recent trends in fuel costs and the Company’s related hedging activities, as well as certain associated risks. See also “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Fiscal Year 2009 Compared with Fiscal Year 2008—Fuel and Oil.”

 

The following table details Ryanair’s fuel consumption and costs for scheduled operations (i.e. it excludes costs related to de-icing) after giving effect to the Company’s fuel hedging activities for fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007. The excluded de-icing costs amounted to €9.7 million, €5.5 million, and €4.7 million, respectively, for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. De-icing costs, which are costs incurred for the labor and anti-freeze used to de-ice aircraft, have increased significantly in recent years as the Company’s route network and number of sectors flown have increased.

 

     Fiscal Year ended March 31,
     2009    2008    2007

Scheduled fuel consumption (thousands of U.S. gallons)

     530,523      469,546      377,185

Available seat miles (ASM) (thousands)

     47,102,503      41,342,195      32,043,022

Scheduled fuel consumption (U.S. gallons) per ASM

     0.011      0.011      0.012

Total scheduled fuel costs(a) (€ thousands)

     1,247,346      785,822      688,663

Cost per U.S. gallon

   2.351    1.674    1.826

Total scheduled fuel costs as a percentage of total operating costs

     43.8%      36.1%      39.0%

 

(a) Omits de-icing costs.

 

INSURANCE

 

Ryanair is exposed to potential catastrophic losses that may be incurred in the event of an aircraft accident or terrorist incident. Any such accident or incident could involve costs related to the repair or replacement of a damaged aircraft and its consequent temporary or permanent loss from service. In addition, an accident or incident could result in significant legal claims against the Company from injured passengers and others who experienced injury as a result of the accident or incident, including ground victims. Ryanair maintains passenger liability insurance, employer liability insurance, aircraft insurance for aircraft loss or damage, and other business insurance in amounts per occurrence consistent with industry standards. Ryanair believes its insurance coverage is adequate, although not comprehensive. There can be no assurance that the amount of such coverage will not need to be increased, that insurance premiums will not increase significantly or that Ryanair will not be forced to bear substantial losses from accidents.

 

The cost of insurance coverage for certain third-party liabilities arising from “acts of war” or terrorism increased dramatically as a result of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. In the immediate aftermath, aircraft hull war-liability indemnities for amounts above $50 million were, in the absence of any alternative coverage, provided by the Irish Government at pre-September 11, 2001 levels of coverage on the basis of a per-passenger surcharge. In March 2002, once such coverage was again commercially available, Ryanair arranged coverage to replace that provided by the government indemnity. The replacement insurance coverage operates on the basis of a per-passenger surcharge with an additional surcharge based on hull values. Ryanair’s insurers have indicated that the scope of the Company’s current war-related insurance coverage may exclude certain types of catastrophic incidents, which may result in the Company seeking alternative coverage. Ryanair to date has passed increased insurance costs on to passengers by means of a special “insurance levy” on each ticket.

 

During the 2006 fiscal year, Ryanair established Aviation Insurance (IOM), Limited (“AIL”), a wholly owned insurance company subsidiary, to provide the Company with self-insurance as part of its ongoing risk-management strategy. AIL’s activities are currently limited to underwriting a portion of the Company’s aviation

 

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insurance program, which covers not only the Company’s aircraft but also its liability to passengers and to third parties. AIL reinsures virtually all of the risk it underwrites with recognized third parties in the aviation reinsurance market, with the amount of AIL’s maximum aggregate exposure not currently subject to such reinsurance agreements being equal to approximately $14.25 million.

 

Council Regulation (EC) No. 2027/97, as amended by Council Regulation (EC) No. 889/2002, governs air carrier liability. This legislation provides for unlimited liability of an air carrier in the event of death or bodily injuries suffered by passengers, implementing the Warsaw Convention of 1929 for the Unification of Certain Rules Relating to Transportation by Air, as amended by the Montreal Convention of 1999. Ryanair has extended its liability insurance to meet the requirements of the legislation.

 

See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Airline Industry—The Company Faces the Risk of Loss and Liability” for information on the Company’s risks of loss and liability.

 

FACILITIES

 

The following are the principal properties owned or leased by the Company:

 

Location

   Site Area
(Sq. Meters)
   Floor Space
(Sq. Meters)
  

Tenure

  

Activity

Dublin Airport

   1,116    1,395    Leasehold    Corporate Headquarters

Phoenix House, Conyngham Road, Dublin

   2,566    3,899    Freehold    Administration Offices

Satellite 3, Stansted Airport

   605    605    Leasehold    Sales Office and Operations Center

Dublin Airport (Hangar)

   2,993    2,175    Leasehold    Aircraft Maintenance

East Midlands Airport

   3,890    2,801    Freehold    Simulator and Training Center

East Midlands Airport

   2,045    634    Leasehold    Training Center

Bremen Airport

   5,952    5,874    Leasehold    Terminal

Skvasta Airport (Hangar)

   1,936    1,936    Leasehold    Aircraft Maintenance

Prestwick Airport (Hangar)

   4,052    4,052    Leasehold    Aircraft Maintenance

Stansted Storage Facilities

   378    531    Leasehold    Aircraft Maintenance

Dublin Airport Business Park

   955    749    Leasehold    Administration Offices

Stansted Airport (Hangar)

   12,161    10,301    Leasehold    Aircraft Maintenance Hangar and Simulator Training Centre

 

Ryanair has agreements with the DAA, the Irish government authority charged with operating Dublin Airport, to lease ticket counters and other space at the passenger and cargo terminal facilities at Dublin Airport. The airport office facilities used by Ryanair at London (Stansted) are leased from the airport authority; similar facilities at each of the other airports Ryanair serves are provided by Servisair plc or other service providers.

 

TRADEMARKS

 

Ryanair’s logo and the slogans “Ryanair.com The Low Fares Website” and “Ryanair The Low Fares Airline” have been registered as Community Trade Marks (“CTMs”). A CTM allows a trademark owner to obtain a single registration of its trademark, which registration affords uniform protection for that trademark in all EU member states. The registration gives Ryanair an exclusive monopoly over the use of its trade name with regard to similar services and the right to sue for trademark infringement should another party use an identical or confusingly similar trademark in relation to identical, or similar services.

 

Ryanair has also registered the CTMs for the word “Ryanair” and for “Ryanairhotels.com.” Ryanair has not registered either its name or its logo as a trademark in Ireland, as CTM-registration provides all of the protection available from an Irish registration, and management believes there are therefore no advantages in making a separate Irish application.

 

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GOVERNMENT REGULATION

 

Liberalization of the EU Air Transportation Market

 

Ryanair began its flight operations in 1985, during a decade in which the governments of Ireland and the U.K. liberalized the bilateral arrangements for the operation of air services between the two countries. In 1992, the Council of Ministers of the EU adopted a package of measures intended to liberalize the internal market for air transportation in the EU. The liberalizations included measures that allow EU air carriers substantial freedom to set air fares, provided EU air carriers greatly enhanced access to routes within the EU, and also introduced a licensing procedure for EU air carriers. Beginning in April 1997, EU air carriers have generally been able to provide passenger services on domestic routes within any EU member state outside their home country of operations without restriction. See also “—Industry Overview—European Airline Market.”

 

Regulatory Authorities

 

As an Irish air carrier with routes to the U.K. and other EU countries, Ryanair is subject to Irish and EU regulation, which is implemented primarily by the Department of Transport, the IAA, the European Commission, and the EASA. Management believes that the present regulatory environment in Ireland and the EU is characterized by high sensitivity to safety and security issues, which is demonstrated by intensive reviews of safety-related procedures, training, and equipment by the national and EU regulatory authorities.

 

Commission for Aviation Regulation. The CAR is currently primarily responsible for deciding maximum airport charges only at Dublin Airport. See “—Airport Operations—Airport Charges” above.

 

The CAR also has responsibility for licensing Irish airlines, subject to the requirements of EU law. It issues operating licenses under the provisions of EU Regulation 1008/2008 (formerly 2407/92). An operating license is an authorization permitting the holder to transport passengers, mail and/or cargo by air. The criteria for granting an operating license include, inter alia, an air carrier’s financial fitness, the adequacy of its insurance, and the fitness of the persons who will manage the air carrier. In addition, in order to obtain and maintain an operating license, Irish and EU regulations require that (i) the air carrier must be owned and continue to be owned directly or through majority ownership by EU member states and/or nationals of EU member states and (ii) the air carrier must at all times be effectively controlled by such EU member states or EU nationals. The CAR has broad authority to revoke an operating license. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Limitations on Share Ownership by Non-EU Nationals.” See also “Item 3. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Ownership of the Company’s Ordinary Stock—EU Rules Impose Restrictions on the Ownership of Ryanair Holdings’ Ordinary Shares by Non-EU nationals and the Company has Instituted a Ban on the Purchase of Ordinary Shares by Non-EU Nationals” above.

 

The CAR is also responsible for deciding whether a regulated airport should be coordinated or fully coordinated under Council Regulation (EEC) No. 95/93 (as amended by Regulation (EC) No. 793/2004) on slots and for authorizing ground handling operations under Council Directive 96/67/EC and its implementing legislation. In April 2005, the CAR announced that Dublin Airport would be fully slot-coordinated beginning in March 2006. Ryanair successfully challenged this decision in the Irish High Court, and the decision was overturned in July 2006. In February 2007, the CAR re-imposed full coordination at Dublin Airport. Ryanair again challenged this decision in the Irish High Court, but subsequently withdrew the challenge. See “—Slots” below for additional information regarding this litigation.

 

Ryanair’s current operating license became effective on December 1, 1993, and is subject to periodic review. The Flight Operations Department is also subject to ongoing review by the Irish Aviation Authority (the IAA), which reviews the department’s audits, including flight audits, training audits, document audits, and quality audits. Ryanair’s current Air Operator Certificate No 07/2009 was issued on April 28, 2009.

 

Irish Aviation Authority. The IAA is primarily responsible for the operational and regulatory function and services relating to the safety and technical aspects of aviation in Ireland. To operate in Ireland and the EU, an Irish air carrier is required to hold an operator’s certificate granted by the IAA attesting to the air carrier’s operational and technical competence to conduct airline services with specified types of aircraft. The IAA has broad authority to amend or revoke an operator’s certificate, with Ryanair’s ability to continue to hold its operator’s certificate being subject to ongoing compliance with applicable statutes, rules and regulations pertaining to the airline industry, including any new rules and regulations that may be adopted in the future.

 

The IAA is also responsible for overseeing and regulating the operations of Irish air carriers. Matters within the scope of the IAA’s regulatory authority include: air safety; aircraft certification; personnel licensing and training; maintenance, manufacture, repair, airworthiness, and operation of aircraft; implementation of EU

 

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legislation; aircraft noise; and ground services. Each of the Company’s aircraft has received an airworthiness certificate, issued by the IAA and the Company will be required to obtain certificates in respect of all additional aircraft that it adds to the fleet. These airworthiness certificates are issued for a period of 12 months, after which application for a further certificate must be made. The Company’s flight personnel, flight and emergency procedures, aircraft, and maintenance facilities are subject to periodic inspections and tests by the IAA. The IAA has broad regulatory and enforcement powers, including the authority to require reports; inspect the books, records, premises, and aircraft of a carrier; and investigate and institute enforcement proceedings. Failure to comply with IAA regulations can result in revocation of operating certification.

 

In July 1999, the IAA awarded Ryanair an air operator’s certificate, which is subject to routine audit and review, in recognition of Ryanair’s satisfaction of the relevant EU requirements for the operation of commercial air transport (“EU OPS 1”). The requirements of EU OPS 1 have been incorporated into European law as prescribed in Regulation (EEC) 3922/91 and were applied in full on July 16, 2008. All current regulatory requirements are addressed in the Ryanair Operations Manual Part A (as amended). The current Manual, Issue 3 Revision 5, was approved by the IAA on April 1, 2009.

 

The Flight Operations Department is subject to ongoing review by the IAA, which reviews the department’s own audits, including flight audits, training audits, document audits and quality audits. These reviews are performed on an agreed audit schedule.

 

Department of Transport. The Department of Transport (“DOT”) is responsible for implementation of certain EU and Irish legislation and international standards relating to air transport (e.g., noise levels, aviation security, etc.).

 

In June 2005, the Minister for Transport enacted legislation strengthening rights for air passengers following the enactment of EU legislation requiring compensation of airline passengers who have been denied boarding on a flight for which they hold a valid ticket (Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004), which came into force on February 17, 2005. See “Item 3. Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Airline Industry—EU Regulation on Passenger Compensation Could Significantly Increase Related Costs.”

 

The European Aviation Safety Agency. EASA is an agency of the EU that has been given specific regulatory and executive tasks in the field of aviation safety. EASA was established through Regulation (EC) No. 1592/2002 of the European Parliament and the Council of July 15, 2002. The purpose of EASA is to draw-up common standards to ensure the highest levels of safety, oversee their uniform application across Europe and promote them at the global level. The EASA formally started its work on September 28, 2003, taking over the responsibility for regulating airworthiness and maintenance issues within the EU member states.

 

Eurocontrol. The European Organization for the Safety of Air Navigation (“Eurocontrol”) is an autonomous European organization established under the Eurocontrol Convention of December 13, 1960. Eurocontrol is responsible for, inter alia, the safety of air navigation and the collection of route charges for en route air navigation facilities and services throughout Europe. Ireland is a party to several international agreements concerning Eurocontrol. These agreements have been implemented in Irish law, which provides for the payment of charges to Eurocontrol in respect of air navigation services for aircraft in airspace under the control of Eurocontrol. The relevant legislation imposes liability for the payment of any charges upon the operators of the aircraft in respect of which services are provided and upon the owners of such aircraft or the managers of airports used by such aircraft. Ryanair, as an aircraft operator, is primarily responsible for the payment to Eurocontrol of charges incurred in relation to its aircraft.

 

The legislation authorizes the detention of aircraft in the case of default in the payment of any charge for air navigation services by the aircraft operator or the aircraft owner, as the case may be. This power of detention extends to any equipment, stores or documents, which may be onboard the aircraft when it is detained, and may result in the possible sale of the aircraft.

 

European Commission. The European Commission is in the process of introducing a “single European sky policy,” which would lead to changes to air traffic management and control within the EU. The “single European sky policy” currently consists of the Framework Regulation (Reg. (EC) No. 549/2004) plus three technical regulations on the provision of air navigation services, organization and use of the airspace and the interoperability of the European air traffic management network. The objective of the policy is to enhance safety standards and the overall efficiency of general air traffic in Europe.

 

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On September 6, 2005, the European Commission announced new guidelines on the financing of both airports and start-up aid to airlines by certain regional airports based on its finding in the Charleroi case, a decision that the CFI has since annulled. The guidelines only apply to publicly owned regional airports, and place restrictions on the incentives that these airports can offer airlines to deliver traffic. However, Ryanair believes that the CFI’s annulment of the Charleroi decision overturns these guidelines.

 

The European Council of Ministers has also passed draft legislation on airport charges, which was originally intended to address abusive pricing at monopoly airports. However, the legislation includes all European airports with over five million passengers per year. Management believes that this will likely increase the administrative burdens on smaller airports and may lead to higher airport charges. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related-Party Transactions—Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings—EU State Aid-Related Proceedings.”

 

The European Council has also passed legislation calling for transparency in airline fares, which requires the inclusion of all taxes, fees, and charges in advertised prices. Ryanair currently includes this information in its advertised fares in all markets where it operates.

 

Registration of Aircraft

 

Pursuant to the Irish Aviation Authority (Nationality and Registration of Aircraft) Order 2002 (the “Order”), the IAA regulates the registration of aircraft in Ireland. In order to be registered or continue to be registered in Ireland, an aircraft must be wholly owned by either (i) a citizen of Ireland or a citizen of another member state of the EU having a place of residence or business in Ireland or (ii) a company registered in and having a place of business in Ireland and having its principal place of business in Ireland or another member state of the EU and not less than two-thirds of the directors of which are citizens of Ireland or of another member state of the EU. As of the date of this report, six of the eight directors of Ryanair Holdings are citizens of Ireland or of another member state of the EU. An aircraft will also fulfill these conditions if it is wholly owned by such citizens or companies in combination. Notwithstanding the fact that these particular conditions may not be met, the IAA retains discretion to register an aircraft in Ireland so long as it is in compliance with the other conditions for registration under the Order. Any such registration may, however, be made subject to certain conditions. In order to be registered, an aircraft must also continue to comply with any applicable provisions of Irish law. The registration of any aircraft can be cancelled if it is found that it is not in compliance with the requirements for registration under the Order and, in particular; (i) if the ownership requirements are not met; (ii) if the aircraft has failed to comply with any applicable safety requirements specified by the IAA in relation to the aircraft or aircraft of a similar type; or (iii) if the IAA decides in any case that it is not in the public interest for the aircraft to remain registered in Ireland.

 

Regulation of Competition

 

Competition/Antitrust Law. It is a general principle of EU competition law that no agreement may be concluded between two or more separate economic undertakings that prevents, restricts or distorts competition in the common market or any part of the common market. Such an arrangement may nevertheless be exempted by the European Commission, on either an individual or category basis. The second general principle of EU competition law is that any business or businesses having a dominant position in the EU common market or any substantial part of the common market may not abuse such dominant position. Ryanair is subject to the application of the general rules of EU competition law as well as specific rules on competition in the airline sector (principally, Council Regulation (EEC) 3975/87, as amended).

 

An aggrieved person may sue for breach of EU competition law in the courts of a member state and/or petition the European Commission for an order to put an end to the breach of competition law. The European Commission also may impose fines and daily penalties on businesses and the courts of the member states may award damages and other remedies (such as injunctions) in appropriate circumstances.

 

Competition law in Ireland is primarily embodied in the Competition Act 2002. This Act is modeled on the EU competition law system. The Irish rules generally prohibit anti-competitive arrangements among businesses and prohibit the abuse of a dominant position. These rules are enforced either by public enforcement (primarily by the Competition Authority) through both criminal and civil sanctions or by private action in the courts. These rules apply to the airline sector, but are subject to EU rules that override any contrary provisions of Irish competition law. Ryanair has been subject to an investigation by the Irish Competition Authority in relation to service between Dublin and Cork. The Company is still awaiting the outcome of this investigation.

 

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State Aid. The EU rules control aid granted by member states to businesses on a selective or discriminatory basis. The EU Treaty prevents member states from granting such aid unless approved in advance by the EU. Any such grant of state aid to an airline is subject to challenge before the EU or, in certain circumstances, national courts. If aid is held to have been unlawfully granted it may have to be repaid by the airline to the granting member state, together with interest thereon. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—The Company Is Subject to Legal Proceedings Alleging State Aid at Certain Airports” and “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”

 

Environmental Regulation

 

Aircraft Noise Regulations. Ryanair is subject to international, national and, in some cases, local noise regulation standards. EU and Irish regulations have required that all aircraft operated by Ryanair comply with Stage 3 noise requirements since April 1, 2002. All of Ryanair’s aircraft currently comply with these regulations. Certain airports in the U.K. (including London Stansted and London Gatwick) and continental Europe have established local noise restrictions, including limits on the number of hourly or daily operations or the time of such operations.

 

Company Facilities. Environmental controls are generally imposed under Irish law through property planning legislation, specifically the Local Government (Planning and Development) Acts of 1963 to 1999, the Planning and Development Act 2000 and regulations made thereunder. At Dublin Airport, Ryanair operates on land controlled by the DAA. Planning permission for its facilities has been granted in accordance with both the zoning and planning requirements of Dublin Airport. There is also specific Irish environmental legislation implementing applicable EU directives and regulations, to which Ryanair adheres. From time to time, noxious or potentially toxic substances are held on a temporary basis within Ryanair’s engineering facilities at Dublin Airport, Glasgow (Prestwick) and London (Stansted). However, at all times Ryanair’s storage and handling of these substances complies with the relevant regulatory requirements. At Ryanair’s Glasgow (Prestwick) and London (Stansted) maintenance facilities, all normal waste is removed in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act of 1996 and Duty of Care Waste Regulations. For special waste removal, Ryanair operates under the Special Waste Regulations 1998. At all other facilities Ryanair adheres to all local and EU regulations.

 

Ryanair’s Policy on Noise and Emissions. Ryanair is committed to reducing emissions and noise through investments in “next generation” aircraft and engine technologies and the implementation of certain operational and commercial decisions to minimize the environmental impact of its operations. Ryanair is currently the industry leader in terms of environmental efficiency and is constantly working towards improving its performance.

 

In December 2005, Ryanair completed the fleet replacement program it commenced in 1999. All of Ryanair’s older Boeing 737-200A aircraft were replaced with Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft, and Ryanair now operates a single-aircraft-type fleet of Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft with an average age of only 2.77 years. The design of the new aircraft is aimed at minimizing drag, thereby reducing the rate of fuel burn and noise levels. The engines are also quieter and more fuel-efficient. See “—Aircraft” above for details on Ryanair’s fleet plan.

 

Ryanair has completed the process of installing winglets on all of its existing aircraft and all future aircraft will also be fitted with winglets. Winglets reduce both the rate of fuel burn and carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 4% and also reduce noise emissions.

 

Furthermore, by moving to an all Boeing 737-800 “next generation” fleet, Ryanair has reduced the unit emissions per passenger due to the inherent capacity increase in the Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft have a significantly superior fuel-burn to passenger-kilometer ratio than Ryanair’s former fleet of Boeing 737-200A aircraft.

 

In addition, Ryanair has distinctive operational characteristics that management believes are helpful to the general environment. In particular, Ryanair:

 

   

operates with a high-seat density of 189 seats and an all-economy configuration, as opposed to the 162 seats and two-class configuration of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft used by traditional network airlines, reducing fuel burn and emissions per seat-kilometer flown;

 

   

has reduced per-passenger emissions through higher load factors;

 

   

better utilizes existing infrastructure by operating out of underutilized secondary and regional airports throughout Europe, which limits the use of holding patterns and taxiing times, thus reducing fuel burn and emissions and reducing the need for new airport infrastructure;

 

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provides direct services as opposed to connecting flights, in order to limit the need for passengers to transfer at main hubs and thus reduces the number of take-offs and landings per journey from four to two, reducing fuel burn and emissions per journey; and

 

   

has no late-night departures of aircraft, reducing the impact of noise emissions.

 

Emissions Trading. On November 19, 2008, the European Council of Ministers adopted legislation to add aviation to the EU Emissions Trading Scheme as of 2012. This scheme, which has thus far applied mainly to energy producers, is a cap-and-trade system for CO2 emissions to encourage industries to improve their CO2 efficiency. Under the legislation, airlines will be granted initial CO2 allowances based on historical “revenue ton kilometers” and a CO2 efficiency benchmark. Any shortage of allowances will have to be purchased in the open market and/or at government auctions. The cost and amount of such allowances that Ryanair will have to buy in 2012 have yet to be determined. Management believes that this legislation is likely to have a negative impact on the European airline industry. Ryanair takes its environmental responsibilities seriously and intends to continue to improve its environmental efficiency and to minimize emissions.

 

Fuel Taxes/Emissions Levies. Ryanair is fundamentally opposed to the introduction of any fuel tax or emissions levy. Ryanair has and continues to offer the lowest fares in Europe, to make passenger air travel affordable and accessible to European consumers. Ryanair believes that the imposition on airlines of a tax on fuel or emissions will not only increase airfares, but will discourage new entrants into the market, resulting in less choice for consumers. Ryanair believes this would ultimately have adverse effects on the European economy in general.

 

As a company, Ryanair believes in free market competition and that the imposition of any of the above measures would favor the less efficient flag carriers—which generally have smaller and older aircraft, lower load factors, a much higher fuel burn per passenger, and operate primarily into congested airports—and reduce competition. Furthermore, the introduction of a fuel tax or emissions levy at a European level only would distort competition between airlines operating solely within Europe and those operating also outside of Europe. We believe that the introduction of such a tax or levy would also be incompatible with international law.

 

Airport charges

 

The EU Airport Charges Directive of March 2009 sets forth general principles that are to be followed by airports when setting airport charges and provides for an appeals procedure for airlines in the event they are not satisfied with the level of charges. However, Ryanair does not believe that this procedure will be effective or that it will constrain those airports that are currently abusing their dominant position. This legislation may in fact lead to higher airport charges, depending on how its provisions are implemented and applied by EU member states and subsequently by the courts. The directive is to be transposed into national legislation throughout the EU by March 2011.

 

Slots

 

Currently, the majority of Ryanair’s bases of operations have no “slot” allocations; however, traffic at a substantial number of the airports Ryanair serves, including its primary bases, are regulated by means of “slot” allocations, which represent authorizations to take off or land at a particular airport within a specified time period. In addition, the airports in Edinburgh and Reus, which became Ryanair bases in September 2008 and November 2008, respectively, are regulated through slot allocations. EU law currently regulates the acquisition, transfer, and loss of slots. Applicable EU regulations currently prohibit the buying or selling of slots for cash. The European Commission adopted a regulation in April 2004 (Regulation (EC) No. 793/2004) that made some minor amendments to the current allocation system, allowing for limited transfers of, but not trading in, slots. Slots may be transferred from one route to another by the same carrier, transferred within a group or as part of a change of control of a carrier, or swapped between carriers. In April 2008, the European Commission issued a communication on the application of the slot allocation regulation, signaling the acceptance of secondary trading of airport slots between airlines. This is expected to allow more flexibility and mobility in the use of slots and will further enhance possibilities for market entry. Any future proposals that might create a secondary market for the auction of slots or allow trading of slots among airlines could create a potential source of revenue for certain of Ryanair’s current and potential competitors, many of which have many more slots allocated at present than Ryanair. Slot values depend on several factors, including the airport, time of day covered, the availability of slots and the class of aircraft. Ryanair’s ability to gain access to and develop its operations at slot-controlled airports will be affected by the availability of slots for takeoffs and landings at these specific airports. New entrants to an

 

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airport are currently given certain privileges in terms of obtaining slots, but such privileges are subject to the grandfathered rights of existing operators that are utilizing their slots. While Ryanair generally seeks to avoid slot-controlled airports, there is no assurance that Ryanair will be able to obtain a sufficient number of slots at the slot-controlled airports that it desires to serve in the future at the time it needs them or on acceptable terms.

 

Other

 

Health and occupational safety issues relating to the Company are largely addressed in Ireland by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989; the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations, 1993; and other regulations under that act. Although licenses or permits are not issued under such legislation, compliance is monitored by the Health and Safety Authority (the “Authority”), which is the regulating body in this area. The Authority periodically reviews Ryanair’s health and safety record and when appropriate, issues improvement notices or prohibition notices. Ryanair has responded to all such notices to the satisfaction of the Authority. Other safety issues are covered by the Irish Aviation Orders, which may vary from time to time.

 

The Company’s operations are subject to the general laws of Ireland and, insofar as they are applicable in Ireland, the laws of the EU. The Company may also become subject to additional regulatory requirements in the future. The Company is also subject to local laws and regulations at locations where it operates and the regulations of various local authorities that operate the airports it serves.

 

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

 

For certain information about each of the Company’s key facilities, see “—Facilities” above. Management believes that the Company’s facilities are suitable for its needs and are well maintained.

 

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments

 

There are no unresolved staff comments.

 

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

 

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company and the notes thereto included in Item 18. Those consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS.

 

HISTORY

 

Ryanair’s current business strategy dates to the early 1990s, when a new management team, including the current chief executive, commenced the restructuring of Ryanair’s operations to become a low-fares airline based on the low-cost operating model pioneered by Southwest Airlines Co. in the United States. During the period between 1992 and 1994, Ryanair expanded its route network to include scheduled passenger service between Dublin and Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow (Prestwick). In 1994, Ryanair began standardizing its fleet by purchasing used Boeing 737-200A aircraft to replace substantially all of its leased aircraft. Beginning in 1996, Ryanair continued to expand its service from Dublin to new provincial destinations in the U.K. In August 1996, Irish Air, L.P., an investment vehicle led by David Bonderman and certain of his associates at the Texas Pacific Group, acquired a minority interest in the Company. Ryanair Holdings completed its initial public offering in June 1997.

 

From 1997 through June 30, 2009, Ryanair launched service on more than 800 routes throughout Europe and also increased the frequency of service on a number of its principal routes. During that period, in addition to Dublin, Ryanair established, London (Stansted and Luton), Glasgow (Prestwick), Brussels (Charleroi), Frankfurt (Hahn), Milan (Bergamo), Stockholm (Skvasta), Rome (Ciampino), Barcelona (Girona), Nottingham East Midlands, Liverpool, Shannon, Pisa, Cork, Marseille, Madrid, Bremen, Dusseldorf (Weeze), Bristol, Alicante, Belfast, Bournemouth, Birmingham, Kerry, Edinburgh, Reus, Alghero, Cagliari, Trapani, Bologna and Pescara airports as bases of operations. Ryanair plans to open a base at Porto in August 2009. Ryanair has increased the number of booked passengers from 4.9 million in the 1999 fiscal year to approximately 58.6 million in the 2009 fiscal year, had 196 Boeing 737-800 aircraft as of June 30, 2009, and now serves 145 airports while employing over 6,900 people.

 

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Ryanair expects to have 232 aircraft in its operating fleet by March 31, 2010. During the period through March 2012, the Company expects to take delivery of additional Boeing 737-800 aircraft that, net of further planned retirements and lease terminations, are expected to increase the size of the Company’s fleet to 292 aircraft, with that number increasing should Ryanair choose to exercise any of the 10 options remaining under its current contracts with Boeing. See “—Liquidity and Capital Resources” and “Item 4. Information on the Company—Aircraft” for additional details.

 

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

 

Since Ryanair pioneered its low-fares operating model in Europe in the early 1990s, its passenger volumes and scheduled passenger revenues have increased significantly because it has substantially increased capacity. Ryanair’s annual booked passenger volume has grown from approximately 945,000 passengers in the calendar year 1992 to 58.6 million passengers in the 2009 fiscal year.

 

Ryanair’s revenue passenger miles (“RPMs”) increased 13.8% from 34,452.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year to 39,202.3 million in the 2009 fiscal year due primarily to a 13.9% increase in scheduled available seat miles (“ASMs”) from 41,342.2 million in the 2008 fiscal year to 47,102.5 million in the 2009 fiscal year. Scheduled passenger revenues increased 5.3% from €2,225.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €2,343.9 million in the 2009 fiscal year. Average yield per RPM was €0.065 in the 2008 fiscal year and €0.060 in the 2009 fiscal year. The decrease in average yield per RPM in the 2009 fiscal year was principally attributable to an increase in seat capacity and increased competition without a corresponding increase in average yield per passenger—the amount of scheduled revenues per passenger booked.

 

The combination of expanding passenger volumes and capacity, high load factors and aggressive cost containment has enabled Ryanair to continue to generate operating profits despite increasing price competition and increases in certain costs, particularly fuel costs. However, these negative factors have been reflected in significant increases in Ryanair’s total break-even load factor and costs per ASM, and contributed to Ryanair recording a loss after taxation of €169.2 million in fiscal year 2009 (This loss was also driven by a €223.0 million write-down of the Company’s investment in Aer Lingus and accelerated depreciation of €51.7 million, among other things). Ryanair’s total break-even load factor was 67% in the 2008 fiscal year and 79% in the 2009 fiscal year. Cost per ASM was €0.051 in the 2008 fiscal year and €0.058 in the 2009 fiscal year, reflecting a higher fuel cost per ASM of €0.027 in the 2009 fiscal year, as compared to €0.019 in the 2008 fiscal year, as well as a 13.9% increase in ASMs in the 2009 fiscal year and associated costs. Ryanair recorded operating profits of €537.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year and €92.6 million in the 2009 fiscal year, and profit after taxation from ordinary activities of €390.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year and a loss after taxation of €169.2 million in the 2009 fiscal year (after the abovementioned €223.0 million write-down of the Company’s investment in Aer Lingus and accelerated depreciation of €51.7 million). Ryanair recorded seat capacity growth of approximately 14% in the 2009 fiscal year, compared to approximately 21% in the 2008 fiscal year, and expects capacity to increase by approximately 15% in the 2010 fiscal year, reflecting the current timetable for the delivery of aircraft under the Company’s contracts with Boeing.

 

Investment in Aer Lingus

 

The Company owns 29.8% of Aer Lingus, which it acquired in fiscal years 2007, 2008 and 2009 at a total cost of €407.2 million. Following the approval of its shareholders, management proposed in the 2007 fiscal year to effect a tender offer to acquire the entire share capital of Aer Lingus. This acquisition proposal was, however, blocked by the European Commission on competition grounds in June 2007. Ryanair’s management views the acquisition of Aer Lingus in the context of the overall trend of consolidation among airlines in Europe and believes that the acquisition would lead to the formation of one strong Irish airline group able to compete with large carriers such as Lufthansa, Air France/KLM and BA. During the EU competition review, the Company made a commitment that if the acquisition was approved, Ryanair would eliminate Aer Lingus’ fuel surcharges and reduce its fares, which would have resulted in Aer Lingus passengers saving approximately €100 million per year. The Company was thus surprised and disappointed by the European Commission’s decision to block the merger. This decision was the first adverse decision taken in respect of any EU airline merger and the first-ever adverse decision in respect of a proposed merger of two companies with less than 5% of the EU market for their services. Ryanair filed an appeal with the CFI, which was heard in July 2009, and currently expects the CFI to announce its decision approximately nine months thereafter.

 

In October 2007, the European Commission also reached a formal decision that it would not force Ryanair to sell its shares in Aer Lingus. However, Aer Lingus appealed this decision before the CFI and the CFI may

 

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overturn the decision. This case was heard in July 2009 and judgment is expected to be issued approximately nine months thereafter. In addition to the risk that the CFI may overturn the decision, the relevant European law may change in the future so as to require such a forced disposition. In January 2008, the CFI heard an application by Aer Lingus for interim measures limiting Ryanair’s voting rights, pending a decision of the CFI on Aer Lingus’ appeal of the European Commission’s decision not to force Ryanair to sell the Aer Lingus shares. In March 2008, the court dismissed Aer Lingus’ application for interim measures.

 

On December 1, 2008, Ryanair made a new offer to acquire all of the ordinary shares of Aer Lingus it did not own at a price of €1.40 per ordinary share. Ryanair offered to keep Aer Lingus as a separate company, maintain the Aer Lingus brand, and retain its Heathrow slots and connectivity. Ryanair also proposed to double Aer Lingus’ short-haul fleet from 33 to 66 aircraft and to create 1,000 associated new jobs over a five-year period. If the offer had been accepted, the Irish government would have received over €180 million in cash. The employee share option trust and employees who own 18% of Aer Lingus would have received over €137 million in cash. The Company met Aer Lingus management, representatives of the employee share option trust and other parties. The offer of €1.40 per share represented a premium of approximately 25% over the closing price of €1.12 of Aer Lingus on November 28, 2008. As the Company was unable to secure the shareholders’ support, it decided on January 28, 2009 to withdraw its new offer for Aer Lingus.

 

On May 21, 2009, Ryanair proposed three resolutions to be put forward at the Aer Lingus annual general meeting held on June 5, 2009. The first resolution called for a reduction in the non-executive chairman’s fees from €200,000 to €35,000 per annum. The second resolution called for the non-executive directors’ fees to be reduced from €45,000 to €17,500 per person per annum (i.e. to rates consistent with those paid to the Aer Lingus chairman and board members during the fiscal year 2006). Aer Lingus allowed votes on these two proposed resolutions at the annual general meeting; however, both proposals were rejected by the shareholders. Ryanair’s third resolution, which sought to enable shareholders to approve in advance severance payments for executives that resign, was rejected by Aer Lingus and thus not voted upon by shareholders.

 

The balance sheet value of €93.2 million reflects the market value of the Company’s stake in Aer Lingus as at March 31, 2009, as compared to a value of €311.5 million as of March 31, 2008. In accordance with the Company’s accounting policy, this investment is held at fair value. This investment is classified as available-for-sale, rather than as an investment in an associate, because the Company does not have the power to exercise significant influence over Aer Lingus. During the 2008 fiscal year, Ryanair recognized an impairment charge of €91.6 million on its Aer Lingus shareholding reflecting the fall in Aer Lingus’ share price from the date of purchase to March 31, 2008. Ryanair recorded a further impairment of €222.5 million in the 2009 fiscal year reflecting a fall in the Aer Lingus share price from €2.00 at March 31, 2008 to €0.59 at March 31, 2009.

 

The Company’s determination that it does not have control, or even exercise a “significant influence,” over Aer Lingus has been based on the following factors:

 

  (i) Ryanair does not have any representation on the Aer Lingus board of directors; nor does it have a right to appoint a director.

 

  (ii) Ryanair does not participate in Aer Lingus policy-making decisions; nor does it have a right to participate in such policy-making decisions.

 

  (iii) There are no material transactions between Ryanair and Aer Lingus, there is no interchange of personnel between the two companies and there is no sharing of technical information between the companies.

 

  (iv) Aer Lingus and its principal shareholders have openly opposed Ryanair’s investment or participation in the company.

 

  (v) On August 13, 2007 and September 4, 2007, Aer Lingus refused Ryanair’s attempt to assert its statutory right to requisition a general meeting (a legal right of any 10% shareholder under Irish law). The Aer Lingus Board of Directors refused to accede to these requests (by letters dated August 31, 2007 and September 17, 2007).

 

  (vi) The European Commission has formally found that Ryanair’s shareholding in Aer Lingus does not grant Ryanair “de jure or de facto control of Aer Lingus” and that “Ryanair’s rights as a minority shareholder…are associated exclusively to rights related to the protection of minority shareholders.”

 

Historical Results Are Not Predictive of Future Results

 

The historical results of operations discussed herein may not be indicative of Ryanair’s future operating performance. Ryanair’s future results of operations will be affected by, among other things, overall passenger traffic volume; the availability of new airports for expansion; fuel prices; the airline pricing environment in a

 

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period of increased competition; the ability of Ryanair to finance its planned acquisition of aircraft and to discharge the resulting debt service obligations; economic and political conditions in Ireland, the U.K. and the EU; terrorist threats or attacks within the EU; seasonal variations in travel; developments in government regulations, litigation and labor relations; foreign currency fluctuations, competition and the public’s perception regarding the safety of low-fares airlines; the value of its equity stake in Aer Lingus; changes in aircraft acquisition, leasing, and other operating costs; and the rates of income taxes paid. Ryanair expects its depreciation, staff and fuel charges to increase as additional aircraft and related flight equipment are acquired. Future fuel costs may also increase as a result of the depletion of petroleum reserves, the shortage of fuel production capacity and/or production restrictions imposed by fuel oil producers. Maintenance expenses may also increase as a result of Ryanair’s fleet expansion and replacement program. In addition, the financing of new Boeing 737-800 aircraft will increase the total amount of the Company’s outstanding debt and the payments it is obliged to make to service such debt. The cost of insurance coverage for certain third-party liabilities arising from “acts of war” or terrorism increased dramatically following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Although Ryanair currently passes on increased insurance costs to passengers by means of a special “insurance levy” on each ticket, there can be no assurance that it will continue to be successful in doing so. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—The 2001 Terrorist Attacks on the United States Had a Severe Negative Impact on the International Airline Industry.”

 

RECENT OPERATING RESULTS

 

For the quarter ended June 30, 2009 (the first quarter of the Company’s 2010 fiscal year), the Company recorded a significant increase in operating profit, from €7.8 million in the first quarter of the 2009 fiscal year to €154.7 million in the recently completed quarter. Total operating revenues remained almost flat, however, declining only slightly from €776.9 million in the first quarter of 2009 to €774.7 million in the first quarter of 2010. The increase in operating profit was therefore due to a 19.4% decrease in operating expenses. Operating expenses declined from €769.1 million in the first quarter of 2009 to €620.0 million in the first quarter of 2010, due primarily to a 42% decrease in fuel costs, offset by increases in other operating costs associated with a higher level of activity in line with the growth of the airline. The Company’s profit after taxation for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 was €123.0 million, as compared to a loss of €90.5 million for the corresponding period of the previous year. These results include a charge of €13.5 million in the first quarter of the 2010 fiscal year and a charge of €93.6 million in the first quarter of the 2009 fiscal year, in respect of an impairment of the Aer Lingus shareholding. Results for the first quarter of 2009 also include an accelerated depreciation charge of €17.9 million in respect of fiscal year 2009 and fiscal year 2010 aircraft disposals. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and financial assets with terms of less than three months amounted to €2,500.1 million at June 30, 2009 as compared with €2,250.0 million at June 30, 2008.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

The following discussion and analysis of Ryanair’s financial condition and results of operations is based on its consolidated financial statements, which are included in Item 18 and prepared in accordance with IFRS.

 

The preparation of the Company’s financial statements requires the use of estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

 

The Company believes that its critical accounting policies, which are those that require management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments, are those described in this section. These critical accounting policies, the judgments and other uncertainties affecting application of these policies and the sensitivity of reported results to changes in conditions and assumptions are factors to be considered in reviewing the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 and the discussion and analysis below. For additional detail on these policies, see Note 1, “Basis of preparation and significant accounting policies,” to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18.

 

Available-for-Sale Securities

 

The Company holds certain equity securities, which are classified as available-for-sale, and are measured at fair value, less incremental direct costs, on initial recognition. Such securities are classified as available for sale, rather than as an investment in an associate because the Company does not have the power to exercise significant

 

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influence over the investee. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at fair value and changes therein, other than impairment losses, are recognized directly in equity. The fair values of available-for-sale securities are determined by reference to quoted prices at each reporting date. When an investment is de-recognized the cumulative gain or loss in equity is transferred to the income statement.

 

Such securities are considered to be impaired if there is objective evidence which indicates that there may be a negative influence on future cash flows. This includes where there is a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value below its cost. All impairment losses are recognized in the income statement and any cumulative loss in respect of an available-for-sale asset recognized previously in equity is transferred to the income statement.

 

Long-lived Assets

 

As of March 31, 2009, Ryanair had €3.6 billion of long-lived assets, virtually all of which were aircraft. In accounting for long-lived assets, Ryanair must make estimates about the expected useful lives of the assets, the expected residual values of the assets, and the potential for impairment based on the fair value of the assets and the cash flows they generate.

 

In estimating the lives and expected residual values of its aircraft, Ryanair has primarily relied on its own and industry experience, recommendations from Boeing, the manufacturer of all of the Company’s aircraft, and other available marketplace information. Subsequent revisions to these estimates, which can be significant, could be caused by changes to Ryanair’s maintenance program, changes in utilization of the aircraft, governmental regulations on aging of aircraft and changing market prices for new and used aircraft of the same or similar types. Ryanair evaluates its estimates and assumptions in each reporting period, and, when warranted, adjusts these assumptions. Generally, these adjustments are accounted for on a prospective basis, through depreciation expense.

 

Ryanair periodically evaluates its long-lived assets for impairment. Factors that would indicate potential impairment would include, but are not limited to, significant decreases in the market value of an aircraft, a significant change in an aircraft’s physical condition and operating or cash flow losses associated with the use of the aircraft. While the airline industry as a whole has experienced many of these factors from time to time, Ryanair has not yet been seriously impacted and continues to record positive cash flows from these long-lived assets. Consequently, Ryanair has not yet identified any impairments related to its existing aircraft fleet. The Company will continue to monitor its long-lived assets and the general airline operating environment.

 

The Company’s estimate of the recoverable amount of aircraft residual values is 15% of market value, determined periodically, based on actual aircraft disposals during the year, agreements to sell further aircraft in future periods and current market valuations.

 

During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009 accelerated depreciation of €51.6 million (as compared to €10.6 million in fiscal year 2008) arose in relation to aircraft disposals during the year and an agreement to dispose of additional aircraft in the 2010 fiscal year. In particular, this charge arose due to an adverse change in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Euro since the accounting periods in which the aircraft were purchased.

 

Heavy Maintenance

 

An element of the cost of an acquired aircraft is attributed, on acquisition, to its service potential, reflecting the maintenance condition of the engines and airframe. Additionally, when Ryanair has a lease commitment to perform aircraft maintenance, a provision is made during the lease term for this obligation. Both of these elements of accounting policies involve the use of estimates in determining the quantum of both the initial maintenance asset and/or the amount of provisions to be recorded and the respective periods over which such amounts are charged to income. In making such estimates, Ryanair has primarily relied on its own and industry experience, industry regulations and recommendations from Boeing; however, these estimates can be subject to revision, depending on a number of factors, such as the timing of the planned maintenance, the ultimate utilization of the aircraft, changes to government regulations and increases and decreases in estimated costs. Ryanair evaluates its estimates and assumptions in each reporting period and, when warranted, adjusts its assumptions, which generally impact maintenance and depreciation expense in the income statement on a prospective basis.

 

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following table sets forth certain income statement data (calculated under IFRS) for Ryanair expressed as a percentage of Ryanair’s total revenues for each of the periods indicated:

 

     Fiscal Year ended March 31,  
          2009             2008             2007      

Total Revenues

   100%      100%      100%   

Scheduled Revenues

   79.7      82.0      83.8   

Ancillary Revenues

   20.3      18.0      16.2   

Total Operating Expenses

   96.9      80.2      78.9   

Staff Costs

   10.5      10.5      10.1   

Depreciation and Amortization

   8.7      6.5      6.4   

Fuel and Oil

   42.7      29.2      31.0   

Maintenance, Materials and Repairs

   2.3      2.1      1.9   

Marketing and Distribution Costs

   0.4      0.6      1.1   

Aircraft Rentals

   2.7      2.7      2.6   

Route Charges

   9.8      9.5      8.9   

Airport and Handling Charges

   15.1      14.6      12.2   

Other

   4.7      4.5      4.7   
                  

Operating Profit

   3.1      19.8      21.1   

Net Interest Income (Expense)

   (1.9   (0.5   (0.9

Other Income (Expenses)

   (7.4   (3.1   (0.0
                  

(Loss)/Profit before Taxation

   (6.2   16.2      20.2   

Taxation(a)

   0.4      1.8      0.7   
                  

(Loss)/Profit after Taxation

   (5.8   14.4      19.5   
                  

 

(a) Taxation in the 2007 fiscal year included the release of a tax contingency reserve of €34.2 million, principally relating to deferred tax and arising from the recognition of certain previously unrecognized tax benefits. The resulting benefit to the Company’s effective tax rate is not reasonably expected to recur.

 

FISCAL YEAR 2009 COMPARED WITH FISCAL YEAR 2008

 

(Loss)/Profit after Taxation. Ryanair recorded a loss on ordinary activities after taxation of €169.2 million in the 2009 fiscal year, as compared with a profit on ordinary activities after taxation of €390.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year. The loss, which was recorded notwithstanding an 8.4% increase in total operating revenues to €2,942.0 million from €2,713.8 million in the prior year, was primarily attributable to (i) a 58.9% increase in fuel and oil costs from €791.3 million to €1,257.1 million, (ii) an impairment charge of €222.5 million on the available-for-sale investment in Aer Lingus, reflecting a significant decline in the Aer Lingus share price from March 31, 2008 to March 31, 2009 and (iii) accelerated depreciation of €51.6 million arising from aircraft disposals during the year and an agreement to dispose of additional aircraft in the 2010 fiscal year. These negative effects were offset in part by an increase in revenues and a €11.3 million tax credit. The increase in revenues reflected an increase of 5.3% in scheduled revenues and an increase of 22.5% in ancillary revenues, each as described in more detail below. Total revenue per passenger decreased by 5.7%, primarily due to an 8.4% decrease in average fares, as offset in part by a 22.5% increase in ancillary revenues.

 

Scheduled Revenues. Ryanair’s scheduled passenger revenues increased 5.3%, from €2,225.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year, to €2,343.9 million in the 2009 fiscal year, as overall passengers booked increased 14.9%, from 50.9 million to 58.6 million. This change reflected increased scheduled passenger volumes on existing passenger routes and the successful launch of new bases at Alghero, Birmingham, Bologna, Bournemouth, Cagliari and Edinburgh in the 2009 fiscal year. The higher scheduled revenues were recorded notwithstanding a decrease of 8.4% in average fares and a one-percentage-point decrease in booked passenger load factors from 82% in the 2008 fiscal year to 81% in the 2009 fiscal year.

 

Passenger capacity (as measured in ASMs) during the 2009 fiscal year increased by 13.9% due to the addition of 18 Boeing 737-800 aircraft (net of disposals), as well a 15.2% increase in sectors flown (the effect of which was partially offset by a 1.1% decrease in the average length of passenger haul). Scheduled passenger revenues accounted for 79.7% of Ryanair’s total revenues for the 2009 fiscal year, compared with 82.0% of total revenues in the 2008 fiscal year.

 

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Ancillary Revenues. Ryanair’s ancillary revenues, which comprise revenues from non-flight scheduled operations, car rentals, in-flight sales and Internet-related services, increased 22.5%, from €488.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €598.1 million in the 2009 fiscal year, while ancillary revenue per booked passenger increased to €10.22 from €9.58. The overall increases reflected higher revenues in each of the aforementioned categories. Revenues from non-flight scheduled operations, including revenues from excess baggage charges, debit and credit card transactions, sales of rail and bus tickets, accommodations and travel insurance, increased 27.3% to €425.8 million from €334.6 million in the 2008 fiscal year, and car rental revenues increased 27.3%, to €32.2 million from €25.3 million. The rate of increase in revenues from non-flight scheduled operations and car rental revenues exceeded the increase in overall passengers booked, while the rate of increase in the other categories lagged somewhat behind. Revenues from in-flight sales increased 13.5%, to €83.2 million from €73.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year. Revenues from Internet-related services, primarily commissions received from products sold on websites linked to the Ryanair.com website, increased 3.4%, from €55.0 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €56.9 million in the 2009 fiscal year.

 

The following table sets forth the components of ancillary revenues earned by Ryanair and each component expressed as a percentage of total ancillary revenues for each of the periods indicated:

 

     Fiscal Year ended March 31,
     2009    2008
     (in thousands of Euro, except percentage data)

Non-flight Scheduled

   425,808    71.2%    334,580    68.5%

Car Rental

   32,172    5.4%    25,266    5.2%

In-flight Sales

   83,196    13.9%    73,314    15.0%

Internet-related

   56,921    9.5%    54,970    11.3%
                       

Total

   598,097    100.0%    488,130    100.0%
                       

 

Operating Expenses. As a percentage of total revenues, Ryanair’s operating expenses increased from 80.2% in the 2008 fiscal year to 96.9% in the 2009 fiscal year, reflecting the fact that operating expenses grew at a significantly faster rate than revenues. In absolute terms, total operating expenses increased 30.9%, from €2,176.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year, to €2,849.3 million in the 2009 fiscal year, principally as a result of the increase in booked passenger volume and the 15.2% increase in the number of sectors flown, which were reflected in increases in fuel expenses, route charges, staff costs, route and airport charges and handling charges. The increase in operating expenses also reflected the adverse impact of significantly higher jet fuel prices in U.S. dollars that were only partially offset by the strength of the Euro against the U.S. currency, as well as an increase in depreciation and amortization expenses related to aircraft disposals. Depreciation, amortization, maintenance, aircraft rental and other expenses also increased, while marketing and distribution costs decreased. Total operating expenses per ASM increased by 15.4%, with the slower rate of growth reflecting the increase in passenger capacity (as measured in ASMs) during the 2009 fiscal year.

 

The following table sets forth the amounts in Euro cents and percentage changes of Ryanair’s operating expenses (on a per ASM basis) for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008 under IFRS. These data are calculated by dividing the relevant expense amount (as shown in the consolidated financial statements) by the number of ASMs in the relevant year as shown in the table of “Selected Operating and Other Data” in Item 3 and rounding to the nearest Euro cent; the percentage change is calculated on the basis of the relevant figures before rounding.

 

     Fiscal Year
Ended
March 31,
2009
   Fiscal Year
Ended
March 31,
2008
   % Change

Staff Costs

   0.66    0.69    (4.9)%

Depreciation and Amortization

   0.54    0.40    35.0%

Fuel and Oil

   2.67    1.91    39.4%

Maintenance, Materials and Repairs

   0.14    0.14    3.4%

Marketing and Distribution

   0.03    0.04    (34.8)%

Aircraft Rentals

   0.17    0.18    (5.5)%

Route Charges

   0.61    0.63    (3.0)%

Airport and Handling Charges

   0.94    0.96    (1.8)%

Other Operating Expenses

   0.29    0.30    (3.3)%
              

Total Operating Expenses

   6.05    5.24    15.4%
              

 

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Staff Costs. Ryanair’s staff costs, which consist primarily of salaries, wages and benefits, decreased 4.9% on a per-ASM basis, while in absolute terms, these costs increased 8.4%, from €285.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €309.3 million in the 2009 fiscal year. This increase in absolute terms was primarily attributable to a 21.0% increase in average headcount to 6,369 and a €3.8 million charge for share options granted to eligible employees. Employee numbers rose due to the growth of the business.

 

Depreciation and Amortization. Ryanair’s depreciation and amortization per ASM increased by 35.0%, while in absolute terms these costs/increased 45.6% from €175.9 million in the 2008 fiscal year, to €256.1 million in the 2009 fiscal year. This reflects an additional 10 owned aircraft (net of disposals) in the fleet at March 31, 2009 and accelerated depreciation of €51.6 million in relation to aircraft disposals during the year and an agreement to dispose of additional aircraft in the 2010 fiscal year. See “—Critical Accounting Policies—Long-lived Assets” above.

 

Fuel and Oil. Ryanair’s fuel and oil costs per ASM increased by 39.4%, while in absolute terms, these costs increased by 58.9% from €791.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €1,257.1 million in the 2009 fiscal year, in each case after giving effect to the Company’s fuel hedging activities. The 58.9% increase reflected a 40.7% increase in average fuel prices paid and a 13.4% increase in the number of hours flown, the effect of which was offset in part by a decrease of 1.1% in the average sector length and the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. dollar during the period. Fuel and oil costs include the direct cost of fuel, the cost of delivering fuel to the aircraft, and aircraft de-icing costs. The average fuel price paid by Ryanair (calculated by dividing total scheduled fuel costs by the number of U.S. gallons of fuel consumed) increased 40.7% from €1.67 per U.S. gallon in the 2008 fiscal year to €2.35 per U.S. gallon in the 2009 fiscal year, in each case after giving effect to the Company’s fuel hedging activities.

 

Maintenance, Materials and Repairs. Ryanair’s maintenance, materials and repair expenses, which consist primarily of the cost of routine maintenance and the overhaul of spare parts, increased 3.4% on a per-ASM basis, while in absolute terms these expenses increased by 17.8% from €56.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year, to €66.8 million in the 2009 fiscal year. The increase in absolute terms during the fiscal year reflected the higher number of leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which grew to 43 from 35 during the year, and the increased level of activity, offset in part by a lower level of maintenance costs incurred due to the improved reliability of the Boeing 737-800s operated and the positive impact of the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. dollar during the period.

 

Marketing and Distribution Costs. Ryanair’s marketing and distribution costs (including baggage-handling commissions) per ASM decreased 34.8%, while in absolute terms these costs decreased by 25.7%, from €17.2 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €12.8 million in the 2009 fiscal year. The decrease in absolute terms was primarily the result of tight control on expenditure and the increased focus on Internet-based promotions.

 

Aircraft Rentals. Ryanair recorded €78.2 million in aircraft rental expenses during the 2009 fiscal year, a 7.6% increase from the €72.7 million reported in the 2008 fiscal year, reflecting an increase in the weighted average number of leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft by eight, bringing the total to 43 during the 2009 fiscal year, the negative effect of which was somewhat offset by lower lease rates and the impact of a stronger Euro versus the U.S. dollar.

 

Route Charges and Airport and Handling Charges. Ryanair’s route charges per ASM decreased 3.0% in the 2009 fiscal year, while airport and handling charges per ASM decreased 1.8%. In absolute terms, route charges increased 10.5%, from €259.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €286.6 million in the 2009 fiscal year, primarily as a result of the 15.2% increase in sectors flown (the effect of which was offset in part by the decrease of 1.1% in average sector length). In absolute terms, airport and handling charges increased 11.9%, from €396.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year, to €443.4 million in the 2009 fiscal year, reflecting the overall growth in passenger volumes as well as increased costs at London (Stansted) airport, where unit costs doubled during the 2009 fiscal year, and higher charges at Dublin Airport, both offset in part by lower average costs at Ryanair’s newer airports and bases.

 

Other Expenses. Ryanair’s other operating expenses, including those applicable to the generation of ancillary revenues, decreased 3.3% on a per ASM basis in the 2009 fiscal year, while in absolute terms, these costs increased 14.1%, from €122.0 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €139.1 million in the 2009 fiscal year, with the overall increase primarily reflecting increased passenger numbers.

 

Operating Profit. As a result of the factors outlined above, operating profit decreased 84.8% on a per-ASM basis in the 2009 fiscal year, and decreased 82.7% in absolute terms, from €537.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €92.6 million in the 2009 fiscal year.

 

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Finance Income. Ryanair’s interest and similar income decreased 10.0%, from €84.0 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €75.5 million in the 2009 fiscal year, primarily reflecting lower average interest rates received on its deposits during the year, the impact of which was partially offset by higher average cash balances on hand.

 

Finance Expense. Ryanair’s interest payable and similar charges increased 34.5%, from €97.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year to €130.5 million in the 2009 fiscal year, reflecting the increase in debt related to the acquisition of additional Boeing 737-800 aircraft. These costs are expected to continue to increase as Ryanair further expands its fleet.

 

Foreign Exchange Gains (Losses). Ryanair recorded foreign exchange gains of €4.4 million in the 2009 fiscal year, as compared with foreign exchange losses of €5.6 million in the 2008 fiscal year, with the different result being primarily due to the positive impact of changes in the U.K. pound sterling and U.S. dollar exchange rates against the Euro during the 2009 fiscal year.

 

Taxation. The tax credit of €11.3 million recorded in the 2009 fiscal year was primarily due to the recognition of a deferred tax asset of €34.3 million in respect of net operating losses incurred and available to carry-forward to future periods. The recoverability of the deferred tax asset is based on future income forecasts which demonstrate that it is more likely than not that future profits will be available in order to utilize the deferred tax asset. The deferred tax asset’s recoverability is not dependent on material improvements over historical levels of pre-tax income, material changes in the present relationship between income reported for financial and tax purposes, or material asset sales or other non-routine transactions. The effective tax rate for the 2009 fiscal year was a tax benefit of (6.3%), as compared to the effective tax rate of 11.0% in the 2008 fiscal year. The effective tax rate reflects the statutory rate of Irish corporation tax of 12.5%, the positive impact of the reduced rates tax applicable to Ryanair.com and other Internet-related businesses and the loss due to the impairment of the Company’s available-for-sale financial asset (which is not subject to corporation tax).

 

FISCAL YEAR 2008 COMPARED WITH FISCAL YEAR 2007

 

Profit after Taxation. Ryanair’s profit on ordinary activities after taxation decreased by 10.3% from €435.6 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €390.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year. While total operating revenues increased by 21.3% to €2,713.8 million from €2,236.9 million in the prior year and Ryanair also recorded a gain of €12.2 million on the disposal of property, plant and equipment in the 2008 fiscal year. These positive effects were more than offset by (i) a 23.3% increase in operating expenses from €1,765.2 million to €2,176.7 million, (ii) an impairment charge of €91.6 million on the available-for-sale investment in Aer Lingus, reflecting a significant and prolonged decline in the Aer Lingus share price from the date of purchase to March 31, 2008; and (iii) accelerated depreciation of €10.6 million arising on the agreement to dispose of aircraft at future dates in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and 2010. The increase in revenues reflected an increase of 18.7% in scheduled revenues and of 34.8% in ancillary revenues, each as described in more detail below. Total revenue per passenger increased by 1.3%, primarily due to the 34.8% growth in ancillary revenues, which was offset by a 1.0% decrease in average fares. Ryanair’s profit from ordinary activities before taxation decreased 2.7%, from €451.0 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €438.9 million in the 2008 fiscal year.

 

Scheduled Revenues. Ryanair’s scheduled passenger revenues increased 18.7%, from €1,874.8 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €2,225.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year, as overall passengers booked increased 19.8%, from 42.5 million to 50.9 million. This change reflected increased scheduled passenger volumes on existing passenger routes and the successful launch of new bases at Bristol, Alicante, Valencia and Belfast in the 2008 fiscal year. The higher scheduled revenues take into account a decrease of 1.0% in average fares. Booked passenger load factors stayed constant at 82%.

 

Passenger capacity (as measured in ASMs) during the 2008 fiscal year increased by 29.0% due to the addition of 30 Boeing 737-800 aircraft (net of disposals), as well as an 6.6% increase in the average length of passenger haul and a 21.2% increase in sectors flown. Scheduled passenger revenues accounted for 82.0% of Ryanair’s total revenues for the 2008 fiscal year, compared with 83.8% of total revenues in fiscal 2007 fiscal year.

 

Ancillary Revenues. Ryanair’s ancillary revenues, which comprise revenues from non-flight scheduled operations, car rentals, in-flight sales and Internet-related services, increased 34.8%, from €362.1 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €488.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year, while ancillary revenue per booked passenger increased to €9.58 from €8.52. The overall increase reflected higher revenues in each of the aforementioned categories. Revenues from non-flight scheduled operations, including revenues from excess baggage charges, debit and

 

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credit card transactions, sales of rail and bus tickets, hotel accommodations and travel insurance, increased 38.4% to €334.9 million from €242.0 million in the 2007 fiscal year, while car rental revenues increased 10.0%, to €25.3 million from €23.0 million. The increase in revenues from non-flight scheduled operations exceeded the increase in Ryanair’s passenger numbers. However, the increase in car rental revenues did not match the increase in booked passengers (decreasing from 6.4% of total ancillary revenues in the 2007 fiscal year to 5.2% in the 2008 fiscal year), reflecting increased competition in the market. Revenues from in-flight sales increased 22.0%, to €73.3 million from €60.1 million in the 2007 fiscal year. Revenues from Internet-related services, primarily commissions received from products sold on websites linked to the Ryanair.com website, increased 48.0%, from €37.1 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €54.9 million in the 2008 fiscal year.

 

The following tables set forth the components of ancillary revenues earned by Ryanair and each component expressed as a percentage of total ancillary revenues for each of the periods indicated:

 

     Fiscal Year ended March 31,
             2008                    2007        
     (in thousands of Euro, except percentage data)

Non-flight Scheduled

   334,580    68.5%    241,990    66.8%

Car Rental

   25,266    5.2%    22,972    6.4%

In-flight Sales

   73,314    15.0%    60,079    16.6%

Internet-related

   54,970    11.3%    37,063    10.2%
                       

Total

   488,130    100.0%    362,104    100.0%
                       

 

Operating Expenses. As a percentage of total revenues, Ryanair’s operating expenses increased from 78.9% in the 2007 fiscal year to 80.2% in the 2008 fiscal year, reflecting the fact that operating expenses grew at a faster rate than revenues. In absolute terms, total operating expenses increased 23.3%, from €1,765.2 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €2,176.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year, principally as a result of the increase in booked passenger volume and the 21.2% increase in the number of sectors flown, which were reflected in increases in fuel expenses, route charges, staff costs and airport and handling charges. The increase in operating expenses also reflected the adverse impact of an increase of 6.6% in average sector length and higher jet fuel prices in U.S. dollars that were only partially offset by the strength of the Euro against the U.S. currency. Total operating expenses per ASM decreased by 4.9% reflecting the increase in passenger capacity (as measured in ASMs) during the 2008 fiscal year.

 

The following table sets forth the amounts in Euro cents and percentage changes of Ryanair’s operating expenses (on a per ASM basis) for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007 under IFRS. These data are calculated by dividing the relevant expense amount (as shown in the consolidated financial statements) by the number of ASMs in the relevant year as shown in the table of “Selected Operating and Other Data” in Item 3 and rounding to the nearest Euro cent; the percentage change is calculated on the basis of the relevant figures before rounding.

 

     Fiscal Year
Ended
March 31,
2008
   Fiscal Year
Ended
March 31,
2007
   % Change

Staff Costs

   0.69    0.71    (2.4)%

Depreciation and Amortization

   0.40    0.45    (10.7)%

Fuel and Oil

   1.91    2.16    (11.5)%

Maintenance, Materials and Repairs

   0.14    0.13    4.5%

Marketing and Distribution

   0.04    0.07    (44.1)%

Aircraft Rentals

   0.18    0.18    (3.2)%

Route Charges

   0.63    0.62    0.9%

Airport and Handling Charges

   0.96    0.85    12.3%

Other Operating Expenses

   0.30    0.33    (9.8)%
              

Total Operating Expenses

   5.24    5.51    (4.9)%
              

 

Staff Costs. Ryanair’s staff costs, which consist primarily of salaries, wages and benefits, decreased 2.4% on a per-ASM basis, while in absolute terms, these costs increased 26.0%, from €226.6 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €285.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year. This primarily reflects a 32.0% increase in average headcount to 5,262, the impact of pay increases granted during the period and a €10.9 million charge for share options granted to eligible employees. Employee numbers rose due to the growth of the business and an increase in cabin crewing ratios as a result of a new EU labor directive.

 

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Depreciation and Amortization. Ryanair’s depreciation and amortization per ASM decreased by 10.7%, while in absolute terms these costs increased 22.6% from €143.5 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €175.9 million in the 2008 fiscal year. This reflects an additional 27 owned aircraft (net of disposals) in the fleet at March 31, 2008 and accelerated depreciation of €10.6 million arising on the agreement to dispose of aircraft at future dates in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and 2010, offset by a lower depreciation charge of €9.6 million due to changes in estimates associated with the revision of the residual value of the fleet to reflect current market valuations and the positive impact of the stronger Euro (versus the U.S. dollar) on estimates of maintenance component costs.

 

Fuel and Oil. Ryanair’s fuel and oil costs per ASM decreased by 11.5%, while in absolute terms these costs increased by 14.1% from €693.3 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €791.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year, in each case after giving effect to the Company’s fuel hedging activities. The 14.1% increase reflected a 27.0% increase in the number of hours flown, an increase of 6.6% in the average sector length and the significant increase in the average dollar-denominated fuel price discussed below, offset in part by the positive impact of Ryanair’s fuel hedging program and the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. dollar during the period. Fuel and oil costs include the direct cost of fuel, the cost of delivering fuel to the aircraft and aircraft de-icing costs. The average fuel price paid by Ryanair (calculated by dividing total scheduled fuel costs by the number of U.S. gallons of fuel consumed) decreased 8.7% from €1.83 per U.S. gallon in the 2007 fiscal year to €1.67 per U.S. gallon in the 2008 fiscal year, in each case after giving effect to the Company’s fuel hedging activities.

 

Maintenance, Materials and Repairs. Ryanair’s maintenance, materials and repair expenses, which consist primarily of the cost of routine maintenance and the overhaul of spare parts, increased 4.5% on a per-ASM basis, while in absolute terms these expenses increased by 34.9% from €42.0 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €56.7 million in the 2008 fiscal year. The absolute increase during the fiscal year reflected the higher number of leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which grew to 35 from 32 during the year and the increased level of activity, offset in part by a lower level of maintenance costs incurred due to the improved reliability of the Boeing 737-800s operated and the positive impact of the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. dollar during the period.

 

Marketing and Distribution Costs. Ryanair’s marketing and distribution costs (including baggage-handling commissions) per ASM decreased 44.1%, while in absolute terms these costs decreased by 27.7%, from €23.8 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €17.2 million in the 2008 fiscal year. The decrease in absolute terms was primarily the result of tight control on expenditure and the increased focus on Internet-based promotions.

 

Aircraft Rentals. Ryanair recorded €72.7 million in aircraft rental expense during the 2008 fiscal year, a 24.9% increase from the €58.2 million reported in the 2007 fiscal year, reflecting an increase in the weighted average number of leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft by 10, bringing the total to 35 during the 2008 fiscal year, the effect of which was somewhat offset by lower lease rates and the impact of a stronger Euro (versus the U.S. dollar).

 

Route and Airport and Handling Charges. Ryanair’s route charges per ASM increased 0.9% in the 2008 fiscal year, while airport and handling charges per ASM increased 12.3%. In absolute terms, route charges increased 30.1%, from €199.2 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €259.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year, primarily as a result of the 21.2% increase in sectors flown and the increase of 6.6% in average sector length. In absolute terms, airport and handling charges increased 44.9%, from €273.6 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €396.3 million in the 2008 fiscal year, reflecting the overall growth in passenger volumes as well as increased costs at London Stansted Airport, where unit costs doubled during the 2008 fiscal year, and higher charges at Dublin Airport, offset in part by lower average costs at the new airports and bases.

 

Other Expenses. Ryanair’s other operating expenses, including those applicable to the generation of ancillary revenues, decreased 9.8% on a per-ASM basis in the 2008 fiscal year, although in absolute terms, these costs increased 16.3%, from €104.9 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €122.0 million in the 2008 fiscal year due to increased passenger numbers.

 

Operating Profit. As a result of the factors outlined above, operating profit decreased 10.0% on a per-ASM basis in the 2008 fiscal year, but increased 13.9% in absolute terms, from €471.7 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €537.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year.

 

Finance Income. Ryanair’s interest and similar income increased 33.3%, from €63.0 million in the 2007 fiscal year to €84.0 million in the 2008 fiscal year, primarily reflecting higher average interest rates received on its deposits during the year, the impact of which was partially offset by lower average cash balances on hand.

 

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Finance Expense. Ryanair’s interest payable and similar charges increased 17.1%, from €82.9 million in the 2007 fiscal year, to €97.1 million in the 2008 fiscal year, reflecting the increase in debt related to the acquisition of additional Boeing 737-800 aircraft. These costs are expected to continue to increase as Ryanair further expands its fleet.

 

Foreign Exchange Gains (Losses). Ryanair’s foreign exchange losses increased significantly to €5.6 million in the 2008 fiscal year, from €0.9 million in the 2007 fiscal year, primarily due to the negative impact of changes in the U.K. pound sterling and U.S. dollar exchange rates against the Euro.

 

Taxation. The effective tax rate for the 2008 fiscal year was 11.0%, as compared to 3.4% in the 2007 fiscal year. The effective tax rate reflects the statutory rate of Irish corporation tax of 12.5%; the positive impact of Ryanair.com (which benefits from a reduced corporation tax rate); and the continued benefit of Ryanair’s Internet-related businesses. Profits from qualifying activities at Ryanair.com are currently levied at an effective 10% tax rate in Ireland. Ryanair.com will continue to be eligible for the 10% preferential tax treatment until the scheduled expiration of its license in 2010. The effective tax rate for the 2007 fiscal year of 3.4% includes a release of a tax contingency reserve of €34.2 million, which resulted in a benefit to the Company’s effective tax rate that is not reasonably expected to recur.

 

SEASONAL FLUCTUATIONS

 

The Company’s results of operations have varied significantly from quarter to quarter, and management expects these variations to continue. Among the factors causing these variations are the airline industry’s sensitivity to general economic conditions and the seasonal nature of air travel. Ryanair typically records higher revenues and income in the first half of each fiscal year ended March 31 than the second half of such year.

 

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

 

Please see Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 for information on recently issued accounting standards that are material to the Company.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Liquidity. The Company finances its working capital requirements through a combination of cash generated from operations and bank loans for the acquisition of aircraft. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—The Company Will Incur Significant Costs Acquiring New Aircraft” for more information about risks relating to liquidity and capital resources. The Company had cash and liquid resources at March 31, 2009 and 2008 of €2,278.2 million and €2,169.6 million, respectively. The increase at March 31, 2009 primarily reflects proceeds from the sale of 16 Boeing 737-800 aircraft, offset in part by the cash used to fund the purchase of property, plant, and equipment—primarily 35 new Boeing 737-800 aircraft—and €46 million incurred in respect of the Company’s share buy-back program. During the 2009 fiscal year, the Company funded its €702 million in purchases of property, plant, and equipment with €459.0 million in loans and the balance from cash generated from operations. Cash and liquid resources included €291.6 million and €288.4 million in “restricted cash” held on deposit as collateral for certain derivative financial instruments entered into by the Company with respect to its aircraft financing obligations and other banking arrangements at March 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, as well as €4.0 million held in escrow relating to ongoing legal proceedings at March 31, 2008 which was repaid in full in the 2009 fiscal year. See “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”

 

The Company’s net cash inflow from operating activities in the 2009 and 2008 fiscal years amounted to €413.1 million and €703.9 million, respectively, with the decline reflecting the decrease in the Company’s operating profitability. During the last two fiscal years, Ryanair’s primary cash requirements have been for operating expenses, additional aircraft, including advance payments in respect of the new fleet of Boeing 737-800s and related flight equipment, payments on related indebtedness and payments of corporation tax as well as share buy-backs. Cash generated from operations has been the principal source for these cash requirements, supplemented primarily by aircraft-related bank loans.

 

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The Company’s net cash used in investing activities in fiscal years 2009 and 2008 totaled €388.3 million and €692.3 million, respectively, primarily reflecting the Company’s capital expenditures, as described in more detail below.

 

The Company’s net cash provided by financing activities totaled €87.5 million in the 2009 fiscal year and €112.8 million in the 2008 fiscal year, largely reflecting the receipt of proceeds from long-term borrowings of €459.0 million and €646.4 million in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, respectively, offset in part by repayments of long-term borrowings of €327.1 million and €242.0 million in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

Capital Expenditures. The Company’s net cash outflows for capital expenditures in fiscal years 2009 and 2008 were €702.0 million and €937.1 million, respectively. Ryanair has funded a significant portion of its acquisition of new Boeing 737-800 aircraft and related equipment through borrowings under facilities provided by international financial institutions on the basis of guarantees issued by The Export Import Bank of the United States (the “ExIm Bank”). At March 31, 2009, Ryanair had a fleet of 181 Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the majority of which (109 aircraft) were funded by ExIm Bank-guaranteed financing. Other sources of on-balance-sheet aircraft financing utilized by Ryanair are Japanese Operating Leases with Call Options (“JOLCOs”), which are treated as finance leases (20 of the aircraft in the fleet as of March 31, 2009) and commercial debt financing (six of the aircraft in the fleet as of March 31, 2009). 43 Boeing 737-800 aircraft in Ryanair’s fleet at March 31, 2009 were financed through operating lease arrangements. The three remaining aircraft in Ryanair’s fleet at March 31, 2009 were owned free and clear of financing-related encumbrances.

 

Of the 18 new Boeing 737-800 aircraft of which Ryanair took delivery between April 1, 2009 and June 30, 2009, 14 were financed through ExIm Bank-guaranteed financing and four were financed through sale-and-leaseback arrangements with international leasing companies.

 

Ryanair has generally been able to generate sufficient funds from operations to meet its non-aircraft acquisition-related working capital requirements. Management believes that the working capital available to the Company is sufficient for its present requirements and will be sufficient to meet its anticipated requirements for capital expenditures and other cash requirements for the 2010 fiscal year.

 

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The below table summarizes the delivery schedule for the Boeing 737-800 aircraft Ryanair has purchased, or is required to purchase, under its past and current contracts with Boeing, including through the exercise of purchase options. These Boeing 737-800s are identical in all significant respects, having 189 seats and the same cockpit and engine configuration. The table also provides details of the “Basic Price” (equivalent to a standard list price for an aircraft of this type) for each of these aircraft. The Basic Price for each of the firm-order aircraft to be delivered pursuant to the 2005 Boeing contract, as well as for each of the firm-order aircraft that remained to be delivered and purchase options outstanding under the prior contracts at January 1, 2005, will be increased by (a) an estimated $900,000 per aircraft for certain “buyer furnished” equipment the Company has asked Boeing to purchase and install on each of the aircraft, and (b) an “Escalation Factor” designed to increase the Basic Price of any individual aircraft to reflect increases in the published U.S. Employment Cost and Producer Price indices from the time the Basic Price is set through the time six months prior to the delivery of such aircraft. The Basic Price is also subject to decrease to take into account certain concessions granted to the Company by Boeing pursuant to the terms of the contracts. These concessions take the form of credit memoranda, which the Company may apply towards the purchase of goods and services from Boeing or towards certain payments in respect of the purchase of the aircraft. These credit memoranda are generally incorporated into Boeing’s final aircraft invoices and thus reduce the amount paid by Ryanair for aircraft. Boeing and CFM International S.A. (the manufacturer of the CFM56-7B engines that power the Boeing 737-800 aircraft) have also agreed to give the Company certain allowances for promotional and other activities, as well as provide other goods and services to the Company on concessionary terms. As a result of credit memoranda received from Boeing, the effective price of each aircraft purchased in the past has been, and the effective prices of aircraft to be delivered in the future are expected to be, significantly below the unadjusted Basic Prices in the following table.

 

Aircraft Delivery Schedule

 

Deliveries and Scheduled

Deliveries in the Fiscal Year ending March 31,

   1998
Boeing
Contract
(Incl.
Options)
   2002
Boeing
Contract
(Incl.
Options)
   2003
Boeing
Contract
(Incl.
Options)
   2005
Boeing
Contract
(Incl.
Options)
   737-800
Disposals
    Total
No. of
Boeing
737-800

Aircraft

1999

     1      —        —        —      —        1

2000

     4      —        —        —      —        4

2001

     10      —        —        —      —        10

2002

     5      —        —        —      —        5

2003

     8      5            13

2004

     —        18      —        —      —        18

2005

     —        13      14      —      —        27

2006

     —        16      9      —      —        25

2007

     —        27      1      2    —        30

2008

     —        21      —        15    (6   30

2009

     —        3      —        32    (17 )(a)    18
                                      

Total as of March 31, 2009

     28      103      24      49    (23   181
                                      

2010

     —        —        —        54    (3   51

2011

     —        —        —        65    (10   55

2012

     —        —        —        15    (10   5
                                      

Expected Total as of March 31, 2012

     28      103      24      183    (46 )(b)    292
                                      

Basic Price per aircraft
(unadjusted) (in millions)

   $ 47    $ 51    $ 51    $ 51     
                                

 

(a) This includes the aircraft that was involved in the bird strike incident at Rome (Ciampino) airport in November 2008, which has not been sold and remains the property of Ryanair (albeit in its un-repaired state).
(b) At June 30, 2009 the Company had sold and delivered a cumulative total 25 Boeing 737-800 aircraft (including three aircraft disposed of in April 2009. The Company expects to dispose of 20 further aircraft before March 2012 (which, when added to the 25 completed disposals, and the aircraft disabled by the bird strike and thus listed as a disposal, brings the total number of disposals to 46). To this end, the Company may choose to dispose of aircraft through sale and/or non-renewal of 11 operating leases due to expire in 2010 and 2011.

 

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The following table summarizes the aggregate purchase options available to the Company under its contracts with Boeing as of the dates specified, broken down by periods in which the relevant option aircraft are deliverable.

 

     For Deliveries
in Fiscal
2007 – 2011
   For Deliveries
in Fiscal
2012 – 2014
   Total
Boeing 737-800
Options

Options available as of April 1, 2007

   67    70    137

Options granted in the period

   —      —      —  

Options exercised in the period

   27    —      27

Options cancelled in the period

   —         —  
              

Options available as of March 31, 2008

   40    70    110

Options granted in the period

   —      —      —  

Options exercised in the period

   30    —      30

Options cancelled in the period

   —      —      —  
              

Options available as of March 31, 2009

   10    70    80

Options granted after March 31, 2009

   —      —      —  

Options exercised after March 31, 2009

   —      —      —  

Options cancelled after March 31, 2009

   —      —      —  
              

Options available as of June 30, 2009

   10    70    80
              

 

As can be seen from the delivery schedule table on the preceding page, delivery of the Boeing 737-800s already ordered will enable the Company to increase the size of its summer schedule fleet by between 5 and 55 additional aircraft (net of planned disposals) each fiscal year during the period from fiscal year 2010 to fiscal year 2012, thereby significantly increasing the size of the fleet, which is expected to total 292 at the end of that period (assuming that the planned disposal and/or lease return of 20 such aircraft is completed on schedule). If traffic growth proves to be greater than can be satisfied by these new aircraft, the Company may exercise its rights to acquire some of the option aircraft detailed in the above table to cater to this demand.

 

Capital Resources. Ryanair’s long-term debt (including current maturities) totaled €2,266.5 million at March 31, 2008 and €2,398.40 million at March 31, 2009, with the increase being primarily attributable to the financing of new aircraft. Please see the table “Obligations Due by Period” below for more information on Ryanair’s long-term debt (including current maturities) and finance leases as of March 31, 2009. See also Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 for further information on the maturity profile, interest rate structure and other information on the Company’s borrowings.

 

The Company’s purchase of the 35 Boeing 737-800 aircraft delivered in the 2009 fiscal year has been funded by a combination of structures including bank loans supported by ExIm Bank guarantees (21 aircraft), JOLCOs (6 aircraft), and sale-and-leaseback structures (8 aircraft). At March 31, 2009, the majority of the aircraft in Ryanair’s fleet had been financed through loan facilities with various financial institutions active in the structured export finance sector and supported by a loan guarantee from ExIm Bank. Each of these facilities takes essentially the same form and is based on the documentation developed by Ryanair and ExIm Bank, which follows standard market forms for this type of financing. On the basis of an ExIm Bank guarantee with regard to the financing of up to 85% of the eligible U.S. and foreign content represented in the net purchase price of the relevant aircraft, the financial institution enters into a commitment letter with the Company to provide financing for a specified number of aircraft benefiting from such guarantee; loans are then drawn down as the aircraft are delivered and payments to Boeing become due. Each of the loans under the facilities is on substantially similar terms, having a maturity of 12 years from the drawdown date and being secured by a first priority mortgage in favor of a security trustee on behalf of ExIm Bank.

 

Through the use of interest rate swaps, Ryanair has effectively converted a portion of its floating-rate debt under its financing facilities into fixed-rate debt. Approximately 72% of the loans for the aircraft acquired under the above facilities are not covered by such swaps and have therefore remained at floating rates linked to EURIBOR with the interest rate exposure from these is loans largely hedged by placing a similar amount of cash on deposit at floating interest rates. The net result is that Ryanair has effectively drawn down fixed-rate Euro-denominated debt with a maturity of 12 years in respect of approximately 28% of its outstanding debt financing at March 31, 2009.

 

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The table below illustrates the effect of swap transactions (each of which is with an established international financial counterparty) on the profile of Ryanair’s total outstanding debt at March 31, 2009. See “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Interest Rate Exposure and Hedging” for additional details on the Company’s hedging transactions.

 

At March 31, 2009

   EUR
Fixed
   EUR
Floating
 
     (thousands)  

Euro borrowing profile before swap transactions

   189,998    2,208,442   

Interest rate swaps

     477,102      (477,102
               

Borrowing profile after swap transactions

   667,100    1,731,340   
               

 

The weighted-average interest rate on the cumulative borrowings under these facilities of €2,398.4 million at March 31, 2009 was 3.77%. Ryanair’s ability to obtain additional loans pursuant to each of the facilities to finance the price of future Boeing 737-800 aircraft purchases is subject to the issuance of further bank commitments and the satisfaction of various contractual conditions. These conditions include, among other things, the execution of satisfactory documentation, the requirement that Ryanair perform all of its obligations under the Boeing agreements and provide satisfactory security interests in the aircraft (and related assets) in favor of the lenders and ExIm Bank, and that Ryanair not suffer a material adverse change in its conditions or prospects (financial or otherwise).

 

ExIm Bank’s policy on facilities of this type is to issue a binding final commitment approximately six months prior to delivery of each aircraft being financed. ExIm Bank has already issued final binding commitments and related guarantees with respect to the 109 (net of 25 aircraft disposals) ExIm Bank-financed Boeing 737-800 aircraft delivered between 1999 and March 31, 2009. ExIm Bank’s final binding commitment is also subject to certain conditions set forth in the documentation for facilities and the ExIm Bank guarantee. These conditions include, among other things, the execution of satisfactory documentation, the creation and maintenance of the lease and related arrangements described below, that Ryanair provide satisfactory security interests in the aircraft (and related assets) in favor of ExIm Bank and the lenders, and that the subject aircraft be registered in Ireland, be covered by adequate insurance and maintained in a manner acceptable to ExIm Bank. Ryanair expects that any future commitments or guarantees issued by ExIm Bank will contain similar conditions. The terms of the facilities and the ExIm Bank guarantee require that Ryanair pay certain fees in connection with such financings. In particular, these fees include arrangement fees paid to the facility arranger, and a commitment fee based on the unutilized and non-cancelled portion of the guarantee commencing 60 days from the date of issuance of the guarantee and payable semi-annually in arrears. An exposure fee for the issuance of the guarantee on the date of delivery is also payable to ExIm Bank (based on the amount of the guarantee). Ryanair’s payment of the 3% exposure fee to ExIm Bank (based on the amount of the loan provided) is eligible for financing under the facilities. Ryanair anticipates that similar fees will be incurred as additional aircraft are delivered and financed.

 

As part of its ExIm Bank guarantee-based financing of the Boeing 737-800s, Ryanair has entered into certain lease agreements and related arrangements. Pursuant to these arrangements, legal title to the 109 aircraft delivered and remaining in the fleet as of March 31, 2009 rests with a number of United States special purpose vehicles (the “SPVs”) in which Ryanair has no equity or other interest. The SPVs are the borrowers of record under the loans made or to be made under the facilities, with all of their obligations under the loans being guaranteed by Ryanair Holdings. The shares of the SPVs (which are owned by an unrelated charitable association) are in turn pledged to a security trustee in favor of ExIm Bank and the lenders. Ryanair operates each of the aircraft pursuant to a finance lease it has entered into with the SPVs, the terms of which mirror those of the relevant loans under the facilities. Ryanair has the right to purchase the aircraft upon termination of the lease for a nominal amount. Pursuant to this arrangement, Ryanair is considered to own the aircraft for accounting purposes under IFRS. Ryanair does not use special purpose entities for off-balance sheet financing or any other purpose which results in assets or liabilities not being reflected in Ryanair’s consolidated financial statements.

 

At June 30, 2009, Ryanair had mandated a number of lenders to provide financing for up to 65 of its firm-order Boeing 737-800 aircraft under ExIm Bank guaranteed financing structures (although guarantees with respect to 55 of such aircraft remain subject to the receipt of ExIm Bank’s preliminary commitment). The Company expects to finance the remaining 88 Boeing 737-800 aircraft it is obligated to purchase under its contracts with Boeing by March 2012 and any option aircraft it acquires under those agreements through the use of similar financing arrangements based on ExIm Bank guarantees, bank debt provided by commercial banks,

 

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and finance and operating leases, including via sale-and-leaseback transactions such as those described below, as well as cash flow generated from the Company’s operations. It is expected that any future ExIm Bank guarantee-based financing will also be subject to terms and conditions similar to those described above. However, no assurance can be given that such financing will be available to Ryanair, or that the terms of any such financing will be as advantageous to the Company as those available at the time of the facilities. Any inability of the Company to obtain financing for the new aircraft on advantageous terms could have a material adverse effect on its business, results of operation and financial condition.

 

The Company financed 43 of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft delivered between December 2003 and March 2009 under seven-year, sale-and-leaseback arrangements with a number of international leasing companies, pursuant to which each lessor purchased an aircraft and leased it to Ryanair under an operating lease. As a result, Ryanair operates, but does not own, these aircraft, which were leased to provide flexibility for the aircraft delivery program. Ryanair has no right or obligation to acquire these aircraft at the end of the relevant lease terms. Fifteen of these leases are denominated in Euro and require Ryanair to make variable rental payments that are linked to EURIBOR. Through the use of interest rate swaps, Ryanair has effectively converted the floating-rate rental payments due under 12 of these leases into fixed-rate rental payments. Twenty-one of these leases are denominated in Euro and require Ryanair to make fixed rental payments over the term of the lease. The remaining seven operating leases are U.S. dollar-denominated and two require Ryanair to make variable rental payments that are linked to U.S. dollar LIBOR, while a further five require Ryanair to make fixed rental payments. The Company has an option to extend the initial period of seven years on 77% of the operating lease aircraft on pre-determined terms. Ryanair has financed an additional four aircraft, delivered in May and June 2009, through similar sale-and-leaseback arrangements with international leasing companies. In addition to the above, the Company financed 20 of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft delivered between March 2005 and March 2009 with 13-year Euro-denominated JOLCOs. These structures are accounted for as finance leases and recorded at fair value in the Company’s balance sheet. Under each of these contracts, Ryanair has a call option to purchase the aircraft at a pre-determined price after a period of 10.5 years, which it may exercise. Six aircraft have been financed through Euro-denominated 12-year amortizing commercial debt transactions. The remaining three aircraft in Ryanair’s fleet at March 31, 2009 were originally acquired through ExIm Bank-guaranteed financing but were not subject to any financing-related encumbrances as of such date.

 

Since, under each of the Company’s operating leases, the Company has a commitment to maintain the relevant aircraft, an accounting provision is made during the lease term for this obligation based on estimated future costs of major airframe and certain engine maintenance checks by making appropriate charges to the income statement calculated by reference to the number of hours or cycles operated during the year. Under IFRS, the accounting treatment for these costs with respect to leased aircraft differs from that for aircraft owned by the Company, for which such costs are capitalized and amortized.

 

In 2000, Ryanair purchased a Boeing 737-800 flight simulator from CAE Electronics Limited of Quebec, Canada (“CAE”). The simulator is being used for pilot training purposes. The gross purchase price of the simulator and the necessary software was approximately $10 million, not taking into account certain price concessions provided by the seller in the form of credit memoranda. The Company financed this expenditure with a 10-year Euro-denominated loan provided by the Export Development Corporation of Canada for up to 85% of the net purchase price, with the remainder provided by cash flows from operations.

 

In 2002, Ryanair entered into a contract to purchase three additional Boeing 737-800 flight simulators from CAE. The first of these simulators was delivered in 2004 and the second and third simulators were delivered in the 2008 fiscal year. The gross price of each simulator was approximately $10.3 million, not taking into account certain price concessions provided by the seller in the form of credit memoranda. In September 2006 Ryanair entered into a new contract with CAE to purchase five B737NG Level B flight simulators. The first two of these simulators were delivered in the 2009 fiscal year. This contract also provides Ryanair with an option to purchase another five such simulators. The gross price of each simulator is approximately $8 million, not taking into account certain price concessions provided by the seller in the form of credit memoranda and discounts.

 

Contractual Obligations. The table below sets forth the contractual obligations and commercial commitments of the Company with definitive payment terms, which will require significant cash outlays in the future, as of March 31, 2009. These obligations primarily relate to Ryanair’s aircraft purchase and related financing obligations, which are described in more detail above. For additional information on the Company’s contractual obligations and commercial commitments, see Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18.

 

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The amounts listed under “Finance Lease Obligations” reflect the Company’s obligations under its JOLCOs. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

 

The amounts listed under “Purchase Obligations” in the table reflect obligations for aircraft purchases and are calculated by multiplying the number of aircraft the Company is obligated to purchase under its current agreements with Boeing during the relevant period by the Basic Price for each aircraft pursuant to the relevant contract, with the dollar-denominated Basic Price being converted into Euro at an exchange rate of $1.3261=€1.00 (based on the Federal Reserve Rate on March, 31, 2009). The relevant amounts therefore exclude the effect of the price concessions granted to Ryanair by Boeing and CFM, as well as any application of the Escalation Factor. As a result, Ryanair’s actual expenditures for aircraft during the relevant periods will be lower than the amounts listed under “Purchase Obligations” in the table.

 

With respect to purchase obligations under the terms of the 2005 Boeing contract, the Company was required to pay Boeing 1% of the Basic Price of each of the 70 firm-order Boeing 737-800 aircraft at the time the contract was signed in February 2005, and will be required to make periodic advance payments of the purchase price for each aircraft it has agreed to purchase during the course of the two-year period preceding the delivery of each aircraft. These payment terms also applied for the 89 aircraft that remained to be delivered under the 2002 and 2003 Boeing contracts as of January 2005. As a result of these required advance payments, the Company will have paid up to 30% of the Basic Price of each aircraft prior to its delivery (including the addition of an estimated “Escalation Factor” but before deduction of any credit memoranda and other concessions); the balance of the net price is due at the time of delivery.

 

The amounts listed under “Operating Lease Obligations” reflect the Company’s obligations under its aircraft operating lease arrangements.

 

Obligations Due by Period

 

Contractual Obligations

   Total    Less than
1 year
   1-2 years    2-5 years    After
5 years
     (millions)

Long-term Debt(a)

   1,810    172    177    566    895

Finance Lease Obligations

     588      31      32      107      418

Purchase Obligations

     5,127      2,066      2,487      574      —  

Operating Lease Obligations

     293      86      69      109      29
                                  

Total Contractual Obligations

   7,818    2,355    2,765    1,356    1,342
                                  

 

(a) Amounts presented include the related interest expense that will be paid when due. For additional information on Ryanair’s long-term debt obligations, see Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18.

 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET TRANSACTIONS

 

Ryanair uses certain off-balance sheet arrangements in the ordinary course of business, including financial guarantees and operating lease commitments. Details of each of these arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity or capital resources are discussed below.

 

Operating Lease Commitments. The Company has entered into a number of sale-and-leaseback transactions in connection with the financing of a number of aircraft in its fleet. See “—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Resources” above for additional information on these transactions.

 

Guarantees. Ryanair Holdings has provided an aggregate of €20.5 million in letters of guarantee to secure obligations of certain of its subsidiaries in respect of loans and bank advances, including those relating to aircraft financing and related hedging transactions. All of these guarantees are eliminated in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

 

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TREND INFORMATION

 

For information concerning the principal trends and uncertainties affecting the Company’s results of operations and financial condition, see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors,” “—Business Overview,” “—Recent Operating Results,” “—Results of Operations,” “—Liquidity and Capital Resources” and “Item 4. Information on the Company—Strategy—Responding to Current Challengesabove.

 

INFLATION

 

Inflation did not have a significant effect on the Company’s results of operations and financial condition during the three fiscal years ended March 31, 2009.

 

Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

 

Ryanair Holdings was established in 1996 as a holding company for Ryanair. The management of Ryanair Holdings and Ryanair are integrated, with the two companies having the same directors and executive officers.

 

DIRECTORS

 

The following table sets forth certain information concerning the directors of Ryanair Holdings and Ryanair as of June 30, 2009:

 

Name

   Age   

Positions

David Bonderman(a)(b)

   66    Chairman of the Board and Director

Emmanuel Faber(c)

   45    Director

Michael Horgan(d)

   72    Director

Klaus Kirchberger(e)

   51    Director

Kyran McLaughlin(c)

   65    Director

Michael O’Leary(a)(b)(f)

   48    Director and Chief Executive Officer

James Osborne(c)(e)

   60    Director

Paolo Pietrogrande(e)

   52    Director

 

(a) Member of the Executive Committee.
(b) Member of the Nomination Committee.
(c) Member of the Audit Committee.
(d) Member of the Air Safety Committee.
(e) Member of the Remuneration Committee.
(f) Mr. O’Leary is also the chief executive officer of Ryanair Holdings and Ryanair. None of the other directors are executive officers of Ryanair Holdings or Ryanair.

 

David Bonderman (Chairman). David Bonderman has served as a director since August 1996 and has served as the chairman of the board of directors since December 1996. In 1992, Mr. Bonderman co-founded Texas Pacific Group, a private equity investment firm. He currently serves as an officer and director of the general partner and manager of Texas Pacific Group. Mr. Bonderman is also an officer, director and shareholder of 1996 Air G.P. Inc., which owns shares of Ryanair. He also serves on the boards of directors of the public companies, CoStar Group, Inc. and Gemalto N.V. Mr. Bonderman is a U.S. citizen.

 

Emmanuel Faber (Director). Emmanuel Faber has served as a director since September 2002. He holds the title of Co-Chief Operating Officer for Group Danone and also serves as a director of a number of French public companies. Mr. Faber is a French citizen.

 

Michael Horgan (Director). Michael Horgan has served as a director since January 12, 2001. A former Chief Pilot of Aer Lingus, he has acted from time to time as a consultant to a number of international airlines, civil aviation authorities, the European Commission and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Mr. Horgan is the Chairman of the Company’s Air Safety Committee. Mr. Horgan is an Irish citizen.

 

Klaus Kirchberger (Director). Klaus Kirchberger has served as a director since September 2002 and is also the Chief Executive Officer of DOBA Grund Beteiligungs GmbH in Munich, Germany. He also serves as a director of a number of German corporations. Mr. Kirchberger is a German citizen.

 

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Kyran McLaughlin (Director). Kyran McLaughlin has served as a director since January 2001, and is also Deputy Chairman and Head of Capital Markets at Davy Stockbrokers. Mr. McLaughlin also advised Ryanair during its initial flotation on the Dublin and Nasdaq stock markets in 1997. He is also the chairman of the board of directors of Elan Corporation plc, and he serves as a director of a number of other Irish private companies. Mr. McLaughlin is an Irish citizen.

 

Michael O’Leary (Executive Director). Michael O’Leary has served as a director of Ryanair since 1988 and a director of Ryanair Holdings since July 1996. Mr. O’Leary was appointed chief executive officer of Ryanair on January 1, 1994. Mr. O’Leary is an Irish citizen.

 

James Osborne (Director). Mr. Osborne has served as a director of Ryanair Holdings since August 1996, and has been a director of Ryanair since April 1995. Mr. Osborne is a former managing partner of A & L Goodbody Solicitors. He also serves as a director of a number of Irish private companies. Mr. Osborne is an Irish citizen.

 

Paolo Pietrogrande (Director). Paolo Pietrogrande, a citizen of the United States, has been a director since 2001. He is presently also Executive Chairman of 9REN Group, formerly Gamesa Solar. A chemical engineer by training, he has served as an executive at KTI Group, Bain & Company, General Electric, Enel, Ducati Motor Holding and Sviluppo Italia; as chief executive officer of Enel Greenpower, CISE, and Nuovi Cantieri Apuania; and as chairman of Atmos Holdings and Solar Energy Italia. His previous board memberships include different companies of the Enel Group, Trinergy Plc, Ducati Motor Holding and Atmos Holdings and its subsidiaries. He also currently serves on the advisory board of Wheb Ventures.

 

The Board of Directors has established a number of committees, including the following:

 

Executive Committee. The board of directors established the Executive Committee in August 1996. The Executive Committee can exercise the powers exercisable by the full board of directors in circumstances in which action by the board of directors is required but it is impracticable to convene a meeting of the full board of directors. Messrs. Bonderman and O’Leary are the members of the Executive Committee.

 

Remuneration Committee. The board of directors established the Remuneration Committee in September 1996. This committee has authority to determine the remuneration of senior executives of the Company and to administer the stock option plans described below. The board of directors as a whole determines the remuneration and bonuses of the chief executive officer, who is the only executive director. Messrs. Osborne, Pietrogrande and Kirchberger are the members of the Remuneration Committee.

 

Audit Committee. The board of directors established the Audit Committee in September 1996 to make recommendations concerning the engagement of independent chartered accountants; to review with the accountants the plans for and scope of each annual audit, the audit procedures to be utilized and the results of the audit; to approve the professional services provided by the accountants; to review the independence of the accountants; and to review the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company’s internal accounting controls. Messrs. McLaughlin, Faber, and Osborne are the members of the Audit Committee. In accordance with the recommendations of the Irish Combined Code of Corporate Governance (the “Combined Code”), a senior independent non-executive director, Mr. McLaughlin, is the chairman of the Audit Committee. All members of the Audit Committee are independent for purposes of the listing rules of the Nasdaq National Market (“Nasdaq”) and the U.S. federal securities laws.

 

Nomination Committee. The board of directors established the Nomination Committee in May 1999 to make recommendations and proposals to the full board of directors concerning the selection of individuals to serve as executive and non-executive directors. The board of directors as a whole then makes appropriate determinations regarding such matters after considering such recommendations and proposals. Messrs. Bonderman and O’Leary are the members of the Nomination Committee.

 

Air Safety Committee. The board of directors established the Air Safety Committee in March 1997 to review and discuss air safety and related issues. The Air Safety Committee reports to the full board of directors each quarter. The Air Safety Committee is composed of Mr. Horgan (who acts as the chairman), as well as the following executive officers of Ryanair: Messrs. Conway, Hickey, O’Brien and Wilson.

 

Powers of, and Action by, the Board of Directors

 

The board of directors is empowered by the Articles to carry on the business of Ryanair Holdings, subject to the Articles, provisions of general law and the right of stockholders to give directions to the directors by way of ordinary resolutions. Every director who is present at a meeting of the board of directors of Ryanair Holdings has

 

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one vote. In the case of a tie on a vote, the chairman of the board of directors has a second or tie-breaking vote. A director may designate an alternate director to attend any board of directors meeting, and such alternate director shall have all the rights of a director at such meeting.

 

The quorum for a meeting of the board of directors, unless another number is fixed by the directors, consists of three directors, a majority of whom must be EU nationals. The Articles require the vote of a majority of the directors (or alternates) present at a duly convened meeting for the approval of any action by the board of directors.

 

Composition and Term of Office

 

The Articles provide that the board of directors shall consist of no fewer than three and no more than 15 directors, unless otherwise determined by the stockholders. There is no maximum age for a director and no director is required to own any shares of Ryanair Holdings.

 

Directors are elected (or have their appointments confirmed) at the annual general meetings of stockholders. Save in certain circumstances, at every annual general meeting, one-third (rounded down to the next whole number if it is a fractional number) of the directors (being the directors who have been longest in office) must stand for re-election. Accordingly Messrs Horgan, McLaughlin and Pietrogrande will be retiring, and will be eligible to offer themselves for re-election at the annual general meeting scheduled to be held on September 24, 2009.

 

Exemptions from Nasdaq Corporate Governance Rules

 

At the time of the listing of Ryanair’s ADSs on Nasdaq in 1997, the Company received certain exemptions from the Nasdaq corporate governance rules. These exemptions, and the practices the Company adheres to, are as follows:

 

   

The Company is exempt from Nasdaq’s quorum requirements applicable to meetings of shareholders, which require a minimum quorum of 33% for any meeting of the holders of common stock, which in the Company’s case are its Ordinary Shares. In keeping with Irish generally accepted business practice, the Articles provide for a quorum for general meetings of shareholders of three shareholders, regardless of the level of their aggregate share ownership.

 

   

The Company is exempt from Nasdaq’s requirement with respect to audit committee approval of related-party transactions, as well as its requirement that shareholders approve certain stock or asset purchases when a director, officer or substantial shareholder has an interest. The Company is subject to extensive provisions under the Listing Rules of the Irish Stock Exchange (the “Irish Listing Rules”) governing transactions with related parties, as defined therein, and the Irish Companies Act also restricts the extent to which Irish companies may enter into related-party transactions. In addition, the Articles contain provisions regarding disclosure of interests by the directors and restrictions on their votes in circumstances involving conflicts of interest. The concept of a related party for purposes of Nasdaq’s audit committee and shareholder approval rules differs in certain respects from the definition of a transaction with a related party under the Irish Listing Rules.

 

   

Nasdaq requires shareholder approval for certain transactions involving the sale or issuance by a listed company of common stock other than in a public offering. Under the Nasdaq rules, whether shareholder approval is required for such transactions depends, among other things, on the number of shares to be issued or sold in connection with a transaction, while the Irish Listing Rules require shareholder approval when the size of a transaction exceeds a certain percentage of the size of the listed company undertaking the transaction.

 

The Company also follows certain other practices under the Combined Code in lieu of those set forth in the Nasdaq corporate governance rules, as expressly permitted thereby. Most significantly:

 

   

Independence. Nasdaq requires that a majority of an issuer’s board of directors be “independent” under the standards set forth in the Nasdaq rules and that directors deemed independent be identified in the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F. The board of directors has determined that each of the Company’s seven non-executive directors is “independent” under the standards set forth in the Combined Code. Under the Combined Code, there is no bright-line test establishing set criteria for independence, as there is under Nasdaq Rule 4200(a)(15). Instead, the board of directors determines whether the director is “independent in character and judgment,” and whether there are relationships or

 

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circumstances which are likely to affect, or could appear to affect, the director’s judgment. Under the Combined Code, the board of directors may determine that a director is independent notwithstanding the existence of relationships or circumstances which may appear relevant to its determination, but it should state its reasons if it makes such a determination. The Combined Code specifies that relationships or circumstances that may be relevant include whether the director: (i) has been an employee of the relevant company or group within the last five years; (ii) has had within the last three years a direct or indirect material business relationship with such company; (iii) has received payments from such company, subject to certain exceptions; (iv) has close family ties with any of the company’s advisers, directors or senior employees; (v) holds cross-directorships or other significant links with other directors; (vi) represents a significant shareholder; or (vii) has served on the board of directors for more than nine years. In determining that each of the seven non-executive directors is independent under the Combined Code standard, the Ryanair Holdings board of directors identified such relevant factors with respect to Messrs. Bonderman, McLaughlin and Osborne. The Nasdaq independence criteria specifically state that an individual may not be considered independent if, within the last three years, such individual or a member of his or her immediate family has had certain specified relationships with the company, its parent, any consolidated subsidiary, its internal or external auditors, or any company that has significant business relationships with the company, its parent or any consolidated subsidiary. Neither ownership of a significant amount of stock nor length of service on the board is a per se bar to independence under the Nasdaq rules.

 

   

CEO compensation. The Nasdaq rules require that an issuer’s chief executive officer not be present during voting or deliberations by the board of directors on his or her compensation. There is no such requirement under the Combined Code.

 

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

The following table sets forth certain information concerning the executive officers of Ryanair Holdings and Ryanair at June 30, 2009:

 

Name

   Age   

Position

Michael Cawley

   55    Deputy Chief Executive; Chief Operating Officer

Ray Conway

   54    Chief Pilot

Caroline Green

   45    Head of Customer Service

Michael Hickey

   46    Director of Engineering

Juliusz Komorek

   31    Director of Legal & Regulatory Affairs; Company Secretary

Howard Millar

   48    Deputy Chief Executive; Chief Financial Officer

David O’Brien

   45    Director of Flight Operations and Ground Operations

Michael O’Leary

   48    Chief Executive Officer

Edward Wilson

   45    Director of Personnel and In-flight

 

Michael Cawley (Deputy Chief Executive; Chief Operating Officer). Michael Cawley was appointed Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Operating Officer on January 1, 2003, having served as Chief Financial Officer and Commercial Director since February 1997. From 1993 to 1997, Michael served as Group Finance Director of Gowan Group Limited, one of Ireland’s largest private companies and the main distributor for Peugeot and Citröen automobiles in Ireland.

 

Ray Conway (Chief Pilot). Captain Ray Conway was appointed as Chief Pilot in June 2002, having joined Ryanair in 1987. He has held a number of senior management positions within the Flight Operations Department over the last 17 years, including Fleet Captain of the BAC1-11 and Boeing 737–200 fleets. Ray was Head of Training between 1998 and June 2002. Prior to joining Ryanair, Ray served as an officer with the Irish Air Corps for 14 years where he was attached to the Training and Transport Squadron, which was responsible for the Irish government jet.

 

Caroline Green (Head of Customer Service). Caroline Green was appointed Head of Customer Service in February 2003. Prior to this, Caroline served as Chief Executive Officer of Ryanair.com between November 1996 and January 2003. Before joining Ryanair, Caroline worked in senior positions at a number of airline computerized reservations system providers, including Sabre.

 

Michael Hickey (Director of Engineering). Michael Hickey has served as Director of Engineering since January 2000. Michael has held a wide range of senior positions within the Engineering Department since 1988

 

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and was Deputy Director of Engineering between 1992 and January 2000. Prior to joining Ryanair in 1988, Michael worked as an aircraft engineer with Fields Aircraft Services and McAlpine Aviation, working primarily on executive aircraft.

 

Juliusz Komorek (Director of Legal & Regulatory Affairs; Company Secretary). Juliusz Komorek was appointed Company Secretary and Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs in May 2009, having served as Deputy Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs since 2007. Prior to joining the Company in 2004, Juliusz had gained relevant experience in the European Commission’s Directorate General for Competition and in the Polish Embassy to the EU in Brussels, as well as in the private sector in Poland and the Netherlands. Juliusz is a lawyer, holding degrees from the universities of Warsaw and Amsterdam.

 

Howard Millar (Deputy Chief Executive; Chief Financial Officer). Howard Millar was appointed Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer on January 1, 2003, having served as Director of Finance of Ryanair from March 1993. Between April 1992 and March 1993 he served as Financial Controller of Ryanair. Howard was the Group Finance Manager for the Almarai Group, an international food processing company in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 1988 to 1992.

 

David O’Brien (Director of Flight Operations and Ground Operations). David O’Brien was appointed Director of Flight Operations and Ground Operations in December 2002; previously, he served as Director of Flight Operations of Ryanair from May 2002, having served as Director of U.K. Operations since April 1998. Prior to that, David served as Regional General Manager for Europe and CIS for Aer Rianta International. Between 1992 and 1996, David served as Director of Ground Operations and In-flight for Ryanair.

 

Michael O’Leary (Chief Executive Officer). Michael O’Leary has served as a director of Ryanair since November 1988 and was appointed Chief Executive Officer on January 1, 1994.

 

Edward Wilson (Director of Personnel and In-flight). Edward Wilson was appointed Director of Personnel and In-flight in December 2002, prior to which he served as Head of Personnel since joining Ryanair in December 1997. Prior to joining Ryanair he served as Human Resources Manager for Gateway 2000 and held a number of other human resources-related positions in the Irish financial services sector.

 

COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

Compensation

 

The aggregate amount of compensation paid by Ryanair Holdings and its subsidiaries to the eight directors and nine executive officers named above in the 2009 fiscal year was €5.4 million. For details of Mr. O’Leary’s compensation in such fiscal year, see “—Employment and Bonus Agreement with Mr. O’Leary” below.

 

Each of Ryanair Holdings’ seven non-executive directors is entitled to receive €32,000 plus expenses per annum, as remuneration for his services to Ryanair Holdings. Mr. Bonderman executed an agreement with Ryanair Holdings waiving his entitlement to receive this remuneration for the 2009 fiscal year. The additional remuneration paid to Audit Committee members for service on that committee is €15,000 per annum. Mr. Horgan receives €40,000 per annum in connection with his additional duties in relation to the Air Safety Committee.

 

Emmanuel Faber and Klaus Kirchberger were appointed to the board of directors as non-executive directors on September 25, 2002, and the appointments were approved by the Company’s shareholders at the annual general meeting held on September 24, 2003. In connection with such appointments, each of Messrs. Faber and Kirchberger was granted 25,000 share options under the Company’s “Option Plan 2000” (described below). These options were exercisable between June 2007 and June 2009, at a strike price of €5.65. (Following the 2-for-1 stock split that occurred on February 26, 2007, the number of options was adjusted to 50,000 and the strike price was adjusted to €2.83.) Mr. Kirchberger exercised his options on June 18, 2009 and Mr. Faber exercised his options the following day, on June 19, 2009.

 

For further details of stock options that have been granted to the Company’s employees, including the executive officers, see “Item 10. Additional Information—Options to Purchase Securities from Registrant or Subsidiaries,” as well as Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements included herein.

 

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Employment and Bonus Agreement with Mr. O’Leary

 

Mr. O’Leary’s current employment agreement with the Company is dated July 1, 2002 and can be terminated by either party upon 12 months’ notice. Pursuant to the agreement, Mr. O’Leary serves as Chief Executive Officer at a current annual gross salary of €535,583, subject to any increases that may be agreed between the Company and Mr. O’Leary. Mr. O’Leary also is eligible for annual bonuses as determined by the board of directors of the Company; the amount of such bonuses paid to Mr. O’Leary in the 2009 fiscal year totaled €470,000. Mr. O’Leary is subject to a covenant not to compete with the Company within the EU for a period of two years after the termination of his employment with the Company. Mr. O’Leary’s employment agreement does not contain provisions providing for compensation on its termination.

 

EMPLOYEES AND LABOR RELATIONS

 

The following table sets forth the number of Ryanair’s employees at each of March 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007:

 

Classification

   Number of
Employees at
March 31, 2009
   Number of
Employees at
March 31, 2008
   Number of
Employees at
March 31, 2007

Management

   99    99    99

Administrative

   257    229    206

Reservations

   14    30    75

Maintenance

   202    201    177

Ground Operations

   384    485    482

Pilots

   1,852    1,599    1,497

Flight Attendants

   3,808    3,277    1,926
              

Total

   6,616    5,920    4,462
              

 

Ryanair’s pilots, flight attendants and maintenance and ground operations personnel undergo training, both initial and recurrent. A substantial portion of the initial training for Ryanair’s flight attendants is devoted to safety procedures, and cabin crews are required to undergo annual evacuation and fire drill training during their tenure with the airline. Ryanair utilizes its own Boeing 737-800 aircraft simulators for pilot training. Ryanair has established an in-house apprenticeship program to train maintenance engineers that annually produces between four and six qualified engineers at Dublin and eight at Prestwick. Ryanair also provides salary increases to its engineers who complete advanced training in certain fields of aircraft maintenance.

 

IAA regulations require pilots to be licensed as commercial pilots with specific ratings for each aircraft to be flown. In addition, IAA regulations require all commercial pilots to be medically certified as physically fit. At March 31, 2009, the average age of Ryanair’s pilots was 38.2 years and their average period of employment with Ryanair was 4.4 years. Licenses and medical certification are subject to periodic re-evaluation and require recurrent training and recent flying experience in order to be maintained. Maintenance engineers must be licensed and qualified for specific aircraft. Flight attendants must undergo initial and periodic competency training. Training programs are subject to approval and monitoring by the IAA. In addition, the appointment of senior management personnel directly involved in the supervision of flight operations, training, maintenance and aircraft inspection must be satisfactory to the IAA. Based on its experience in managing the airline’s growth to date, management believes that there is a sufficient pool of qualified and licensed pilots, engineers and mechanics in Ireland, in the U.K. and within the EU to satisfy Ryanair’s anticipated future needs in the areas of flight operations, maintenance and quality control and that Ryanair will not face significant difficulty in hiring and continuing to employ the required personnel. Ryanair has also been able to satisfy its short-term needs for additional pilots by contracting with certain employment agencies that represent experienced flight personnel and, as of March 31, 2009, Ryanair had 1,041 such pilots under contract. These contract pilots are included in the table above.

 

Ryanair has licensed IAA-approved organizations in Sweden and the Netherlands to operate pilot training courses using Ryanair’s syllabus, in order to grant Boeing 737 type-ratings. Each trainee pilot must pay for his or her own training and, based on his or her performance, he or she may be offered a position within Ryanair. This program enables Ryanair to secure a continuous stream of type-rated co-pilots.

 

Ryanair’s employees earn productivity-based incentive payments, including discretionary sales bonuses for in-flight sales for flight attendants and payments based on the number of hours or sectors flown by pilots and flight attendants (within limits set by industry standards or regulations fixing maximum working hours). During

 

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the 2009 fiscal year, such productivity-based incentive payments accounted for approximately 39% of an average flight attendant’s total pay package and approximately 37% of the typical pilot’s compensation. Pilots at all Ryanair bases are covered by four-year agreements on pay, allowances and rosters. In March 2009, negotiations on new pilot pay arrangements including a one-year pay freeze, the extension of existing agreements by one year, the conclusion of new agreements and other productivity measures were successfully concluded at all of Ryanair’s bases. Ryanair’s pilots are currently subject to IAA-approved limits of 100 flight-hours per 28-day cycle, 300 flight-hours every three months and 900 flight-hours per fiscal year. For the 2009 fiscal year, the average flight-hours for Ryanair’s pilots amounted to approximately 64 hours per full working month and approximately 762 hours for the complete year, a slight reduction from previous years due to the introduction of more flexible work and pay arrangements (including the use of pilot contracting companies). Were more stringent regulations on flight hours to be adopted, Ryanair’s flight personnel could experience a reduction in their total pay due to lower compensation for the number of hours or sectors flown and Ryanair could be required to hire additional flight personnel.

 

An EU Working Time Directive, which became effective in January 2007, has limited Ryanair’s flight attendants’ duty hours to 2,000 hours per fiscal year and their flight hours to 900 flying hours per fiscal year. Prior to the introduction of this EU directive, there were no cumulative flight-hour limits. As a result of the directive, Ryanair’s ratio of flight attendants per aircraft increased from approximately four crews per aircraft (or 16 flight attendants per aircraft) in the 2007 fiscal year to approximately five crews per aircraft (or 20 flight attendants per aircraft) by the end of the 2009 fiscal year.

 

Ryanair considers its relations with its employees to be good. Ryanair currently negotiates with groups of employees, including its pilots, through “Employee Representation Committees” (“ERCs”) regarding pay, work practices and conditions of employment, including conducting formal negotiations with these internal collective bargaining units. Ryanair’s senior management has quarterly meetings with the different ERCs to discuss all aspects of the business and those issues that specifically relate to each relevant employee group.

 

In 2001, BALPA, the U.K. pilots union, sought to obtain a formal recognition agreement under schedule A1 of the U.K. Trade Union & Labour Relations Act 1992, but a secret ballot resulted in more than 82% of eligible Ryanair Pilots opting not to have BALPA recognized for collective bargaining purposes. The result of this ballot precluded BALPA from seeking a recognition agreement with Ryanair for a period of three years (until October 2004). On June 19, 2009, BALPA made a request for voluntary recognition under applicable U.K. legislation, which Ryanair rejected. BALPA now has the option of applying to the U.K.’s Central Arbitration Committee (CAC) to organize a vote on union recognition by Ryanair’s pilots in relevant bargaining units, as determined by the CAC. If BALPA were successful in such a ballot initiative, this would allow it to represent the U.K. pilots in negotiations over salaries and working conditions.

 

Ryanair Holdings’ shareholders have approved a number of share option plans for employees and directors. Ryanair Holdings has also issued share options to certain of its senior managers. For details of all outstanding share options, see “Item 10. Additional Information—Options to Purchase Securities from Registrant or Subsidiaries.”

 

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

 

As of June 30, 2009, 1,476,521,336 Ordinary Shares were outstanding. At that date, 137,619,734 ADRs, representing 688,098,674 Ordinary Shares, were held of record in the United States by 83 holders, and represented in the aggregate 46.6% of the number of Ordinary Shares then outstanding. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Articles of Association” and “—Limitations on Share Ownership by Non-EU Nationals.”

 

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MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

 

Based on information available to Ryanair Holdings, the following table summarizes the holdings of those shareholders holding 3% or more of the Ordinary Shares as of June 30, 2009, June 30, 2008 and July 31, 2007, the latest practicable date prior to the Company’s publication of its statutory annual report in each of the relevant years.

 

    As of June 30, 2009   As of June 30, 2008   As of July 31, 2007
    No. of Shares   % of
Class
  No. of Shares   % of
Class
  No. of Shares   % of
Class

Capital Research and Management Company.

  195,559,515   13.24%   211,322,630   14.29%   180,029,994   11.90%

Gilder Gagnon Howe & Co. LLC

  76,570,295   5.19%   93,372,870   6.31%   93,749,190   6.20%

FMR LLC

  64,938,500   4.40%   46,806,380   3.15%   90,452,075   5.95%

FIL Limited

  62,235,643   4.22%   51,086,444   3.44%   28,274,071   1.86%

Michael O’Leary(a)

  60,000,016   4.06%   65,000,016   4.39%   65,000,016   4.30%

Chieftain Capital Management Inc

  52,789,800   3.58%   77,871,400   5.27%   54,743,575   3.60%

 

(a) On June 5, 2009, Michael O’Leary sold 5 million Ordinary Shares at €3.75 per share in a private sale conducted outside the United States in accordance with Regulation S under the Securities Act.

 

As of June 30, 2009, the directors and executive officers of Ryanair Holdings as a group owned 76,118,220 Ordinary Shares, representing 5.16% of Ryanair Holdings’ outstanding Ordinary Shares as of such date. See also Note 19(d) to the consolidated financial statements included herein.

 

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

The Company has not entered into any “related party transactions” as defined in Item 7.B. of Form 20-F in the three fiscal years ending March 31, 2009 or in the period from March 31, 2009 to the date hereof.

 

Item 8. Financial Information

 

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Please refer to “Item 18. Financial Statements.”

 

OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is engaged in litigation arising in the ordinary course of its business. Although no assurance can be given as to the outcome of any current or pending litigation, management does not believe that any of such litigation will, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or financial condition of the Company, except as otherwise described below.

 

EU State Aid-Related Proceedings. On December 11, 2002, the European Commission announced the launch of an investigation into the April 2001 agreement among Ryanair, the Brussels (Charleroi) airport and the government of the Walloon Region of Belgium, the owner of the airport, which enabled the Company to launch new routes and base up to four aircraft at Brussels (Charleroi). The European Commission’s investigation was based on an anonymous complaint alleging that Ryanair’s arrangements with Brussels (Charleroi) constituted illegal state aid.

 

The European Commission issued its decision on February 12, 2004. As regards the majority of the arrangements between Ryanair, the airport and the region, the European Commission found that although they constituted state aid, they were nevertheless compatible with the EC Treaty provisions and therefore did not require repayment. However, the European Commission also found that certain other arrangements did constitute illegal state aid and therefore ordered Ryanair to repay the amount of the benefit received in connection with those arrangements. On April 20, 2004, the Walloon Region wrote to Ryanair requesting repayment of such state aid, although it acknowledged that Ryanair could offset against the amount of such state aid certain costs incurred in relation to the establishment of the base, in accordance with the European Commission’s decision. Ryanair made the requested repayment.

 

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On May 25, 2004, Ryanair appealed the decision of the European Commission to the CFI, requesting the court to annul the decision because:

 

   

the European Commission infringed Article 253 of the EC Treaty by failing to provide adequate reasons for its decision; and

 

   

the European Commission misapplied Article 87 of the EC Treaty by failing to properly apply the Market Economy Investor Principle (MEIP), which generally holds that an investment made by a public entity that would have been made on the same basis by a private entity does not constitute state aid.

 

In March 2008, Ryanair had its hearing before the CFI, and in December 2008, the CFI annulled the European Commission’s decision, and Ryanair was repaid the €4 million that the Commission had claimed was illegal state aid. The Belgian government has also withdrawn a separate €2.3 million action against Ryanair arising from the same transaction.

 

Ryanair is facing similar legal challenges by third parties (mainly competing airlines) with respect to agreements with certain other airports. In 2007 and 2008, the European Commission announced that it had begun investigations of airport agreements at the Hamburg (Lubeck), Tampere, Berlin (Schonefeld), Alghero, Pau, Aarhus, Bratislava and Dortmund airports; however, Ryanair has only limited flights to and from the first seven of such airports and does not operate flights to or from Dortmund. On June 17, 2008, the European Commission launched a further investigation into Ryanair’s agreements at Frankfurt (Hahn) airport, which is a significant base for Ryanair. The European Commission announced in a public statement that its initial investigation had found that the airport might have acted like a private market investor but that it had insufficient evidence to reach a conclusion and therefore had elected to open a formal investigation. The formal investigation is ongoing. Previous complaints by Lufthansa about Ryanair’s cost base at Frankfurt (Hahn) have been rejected by German courts.

 

In September 2005, the European Commission announced new guidelines on the financing of airports and the provision of start-up aid to airlines departing from regional airports, based on the Commission’s finding in the Brussels (Charleroi) case, which Ryanair successfully appealed. The guidelines apply only to publicly owned regional airports, and place restrictions on the incentives these airports can offer airlines to deliver traffic. Furthermore, the guidelines apply only in cases in which the terms offered by a public airport are in excess of what a similar private airport would have offered. Ryanair deals with airports, both public and private, on an equal basis and receives the same cost agreements from both. The guidelines have therefore had no impact on Ryanair’s business, although they have caused significant uncertainty in the industry in relation to what public airports may or may not do in order to attract traffic. A revision of the guidelines is planned for the end of 2009 or early 2010.

 

Ryanair believes that the positive decision by the CFI in the Charleroi case will cause the European Commission to rethink its policy in this area. However, adverse rulings in the above or similar cases could be used as precedents by other competitors to challenge Ryanair’s agreements with other publicly owned airports and could cause Ryanair to strongly reconsider its growth strategy in relation to public or state-owned airports across Europe. This could in turn lead to a scaling back of Ryanair’s growth strategy due to the smaller number of privately owned airports available for development. No assurance can be given as to the outcome of these proceedings, nor as to whether any unfavorable outcomes may, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or financial condition of the Company.

 

In November 2007, Ryanair initiated proceedings in the CFI against the European Commission for its failure to take action on a number of state aid complaints Ryanair had submitted against Air France, Lufthansa, Alitalia, Volare and Olympic Airways. Following the Commission’s subsequent findings that illegal state aid had been provided to Air France and Olympic Airways, Ryanair withdrew the two relevant proceedings. Ryanair is currently awaiting hearings in the remaining three cases.

 

In November 2008, Ryanair initiated proceedings in the CFI contesting the European Commission’s refusal to grant Ryanair access to documents relating to the Commission’s state aid investigations at Hamburg (Lubeck), Tampere, Berlin (Schonefeld), Alghero, Pau, Aarhus, Bratislava and Frankfurt (Hahn) airports. In March 2009, Ryanair also appealed (to the CFI) two decisions issued by the European Commission in November 2008 relating to the sale of Alitalia’s assets to Compagnia Aerea Italiana (CAI) and to a €300 million rescue loan granted to Alitalia by the Italian government and subsequently converted into Alitalia’s capital. Ryanair expects these proceedings to last between two and four years, in line with the average duration of CFI proceedings.

 

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Aer Lingus Merger Decision. During the 2007 fiscal year, the Company acquired 25.2% of Aer Lingus. The Company increased its interest to 29.3% during the 2008 fiscal year, and to 29.8% during the 2009 fiscal year at a total aggregate cost of €407.2 million. Following the acquisition of its initial stake and upon the approval of the Company’s shareholders, management proposed to effect a tender offer to acquire the entire share capital of Aer Lingus. This acquisition proposal was, however, blocked by the European Commission on competition grounds. Ryanair filed an appeal with the CFI, which was heard in July 2009, and currently expects the CFI to announce its decision approximately nine months thereafter. (see also: “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Business Overview”).

 

The EU Commissioner for Competition, Neelie Kroes, said on June 27, 2007 that, “Since Ryanair is not in a position to exert de jure or de facto control over Aer Lingus, the European Commission is not in a position to require Ryanair to divest its minority shareholding, which is, by the way, not a controlling stake.” In October 2007, the European Commission also reached a formal decision that it would not force Ryanair to sell its shares in Aer Lingus. However, Aer Lingus appealed this decision before the CFI and the CFI may overturn the decision. This case was heard in July 2009 and a decision is expected to be issued approximately nine months thereafter. In addition to the risk that the CFI may overturn the decision, the EU legislation may change in the future so as to require such a forced disposition. In January 2008, the CFI heard an application by Aer Lingus for interim measures limiting Ryanair’s voting rights, pending a decision of the CFI on Aer Lingus’ appeal of the European Commission’s decision not to force Ryanair to sell the Aer Lingus shares. In March 2008, the court dismissed Aer Lingus’ application for interim measures. If eventually forced to dispose of its stake in Aer Lingus, Ryanair could suffer significant losses due to the negative impact on attainable prices of the forced sale of such a significant portion of Aer Lingus’ shares.

 

On December 1, 2008, Ryanair made a new offer to acquire all of the ordinary shares of Aer Lingus it did not own at a price of €1.40 per ordinary share. Ryanair offered to keep Aer Lingus as a separate company, maintain the Aer Lingus brand, and retain its Heathrow slots and connectivity. Ryanair also proposed to double Aer Lingus’ short-haul fleet from 33 to 66 aircraft and to create 1,000 associated new jobs over a five-year period. If the offer had been accepted, the Irish government would have received over €180 million in cash. The employee share option trust and employees who own 18% of Aer Lingus would have received over €137 million in cash. The Company met Aer Lingus management, representatives of the employee share option trust and other parties. The offer of €1.40 per share represented a premium of approximately 25% over the closing price of €1.12 of Aer Lingus on November 28, 2008. Ryanair also advised the market that it would not proceed to seek EU approval for the new bid unless the shareholders agreed to sell their stakes in Aer Lingus to Ryanair. However, as the Company was unable to secure the shareholders’ support it decided, on January 28, 2009, to withdraw its new offer for Aer Lingus.

 

Legal Actions Against Regulated Monopoly Airports. Ryanair is involved in a number of legal and regulatory actions against the Dublin and London (Stansted) airports for what Ryanair considers to be ongoing abuses of their dominant positions in the Dublin and London Stansted markets. Management believes that both of these airports have been engaged in “regulatory gaming” in order to achieve inflated airport charges under the regulatory processes in the U.K. and Ireland. By inflating its so-called “regulated asset base” (essentially the value of its airport facilities), a regulated airport can achieve higher returns on its assets through inflated airport charges. With respect to London (Stansted), the OFT, following complaints from Ryanair and other airlines, has recognized that the regulatory process is flawed and provides perverse incentives to regulated airports to spend excessively on infrastructure in order to inflate their airport charges. The OFT referred the case to the U.K. Competition Commission, which released its preliminary findings in April 2008. It found that the common ownership by BAA of the three main airports in London affects competition and that the “light touch” approach by the Civil Aviation Authority was having an adverse impact on competition. In March 2009, the Competition Commission published its final report on the BAA and ordered the breakup of BAA, (which will involve the sale of London (Gatwick) and London (Stansted) and either Glasgow or Edinburgh Airport in Scotland). In May 2009, BAA appealed the Competition Commission’s decision on the bases of bias and lack of proportionality. Ryanair has secured the right to intervene in this appeal in support of the Competition Commission, and the case is expected to be heard in October 2009.

 

Ryanair has also been trying to prevent both the BAA in London and the DAA in Dublin from engaging in wasteful capital expenditure. In the case of Stansted Airport, the BAA is planning to spend U.K. £4 billion on a second runway and terminal, which Ryanair believes should only cost approximately U.K. £1 billion. Following the final decision of the U.K. Competition Commission forcing BAA to sell London (Stansted) airport, Ryanair believes that it is highly unlikely that BAA’s planned £4 billion plans will proceed; Ryanair will work with the new owners to develop appropriate low-cost facilities. Similarly, in the case of Dublin, the DAA is proceeding with plans to build a second terminal, which will cost over four times its initial estimate. When the DAA first

 

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announced plans to build a second terminal (“Terminal 2”) at Dublin Airport, it estimated that the proposed expansion would cost between €170 million and €200 million. Ryanair supported a development of this scale; however, in September 2006, the DAA announced that the construction of Terminal 2 would cost approximately €800 million. Subsequently, the projected cost of the new terminal has risen to in excess of €1.0 billion. Ryanair opposes expansion at what it believes to be an excessive cost. On August 29, 2007 the relevant planning authority approved a planning application from the DAA for the building of Terminal 2, a second runway, and other facilities. The new construction is subject to a capacity restriction of 32 million passengers per year, and the runway is subject to limits in its hours of operation. The approval will mean that charges at Dublin Airport will increase significantly, possibly doubling from their current level. Ryanair sought a judicial review of the planning approval; however, this appeal was unsuccessful. Ryanair has responded by moving to reduce capacity in both summer and winter periods. The increase in charges, in combination with the introduction of the €10 Air Travel Tax mentioned above, could lead to substantially reduced passenger volumes and a significant decline in yields on flights to and from Dublin Airport. See “Item 3. Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Ryanair’s Continued Growth is Dependent on Access to Suitable Airports; Charges for Airport Access are Subject to Increase” and “—The Company Is Subject to Legal Proceedings Alleging State Aid at Certain Airports,” as well as “Item 4. Information on the Company—Airport Operations—Airport Charges.”

 

Dividend Policy

 

Since its organization as the holding company for Ryanair in 1996, Ryanair Holdings has not declared or paid dividends on its Ordinary Shares. For the foreseeable future, Ryanair Holdings anticipates that it will retain any earnings in order to fund the business operations of the Company, including the acquisition of additional aircraft needed for Ryanair’s planned entry into new markets and the expansion of its existing service, as well as for routine replacements of its current fleet. Ryanair Holdings does not, therefore, anticipate paying any cash or share dividends on its Ordinary Shares in the foreseeable future. Any cash dividends or other distributions, if made, are expected to be made in Euro, although Ryanair Holdings’ Articles provide that dividends may be declared and paid in U.S. dollars. In the case of ADRs, The Bank of New York, as depositary, will convert all cash dividends and other distributions payable to owners of ADRs into U.S. dollars to the extent that, in its judgment, it can do so on a reasonable basis, and will distribute the resulting U.S. dollar amounts (net of conversion expenses) to the owners of ADRs.

 

Share Buy-back Program

 

Following shareholder approval at the 2006 annual general meeting of shareholders, a €300 million share buy-back program was formally announced on June 5, 2007. This buy-back program was not completed before the 2007 annual general meeting. The Directors therefore sought a renewal of the above authority. Permission was received at the annual general meeting of the shareholders held on September 20, 2007 to repurchase a maximum of 75.6 million Ordinary Shares representing 5% of the Company’s then outstanding share capital. The €300 million share buy-back of approximately 59.5 million shares, representing approximately 3.8% of the Company’s pre-existing share capital, was completed in November 2007. In February 2008 the Company announced a second share buy-back program of up to €200 million worth of shares, which was ratified by shareholders at the annual general meeting of the shareholders held on September 18, 2008. To date 18.1 million shares have been repurchased under this program at a total cost of approximately €46.0 million. This is equivalent to approximately 1.2% of the Company’s issued share capital after taking into account such buy-backs. All Ordinary Shares repurchased have been cancelled. See “Item 10. Description of Capital Stock—Trading Markets and Share Prices” below for further information regarding share buy-backs.

 

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

 

No significant change in the Company’s financial condition has occurred since the date of the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.

 

Item 9. The Offer and Listing

 

TRADING MARKETS AND SHARE PRICES

 

The primary market for Ryanair Holdings’ Ordinary Shares is the Irish Stock Exchange Limited (the “Irish Stock Exchange”); Ordinary Shares are also traded on the London Stock Exchange. The Ordinary Shares were first listed for trading on the Official List of the Irish Stock Exchange on June 5, 1997 and were first admitted to the Official List of the London Stock Exchange on July 16, 1998.

 

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ADRs, each representing five Ordinary Shares, are traded on Nasdaq. The Bank of New York is Ryanair Holdings’ depositary for purposes of issuing ADRs evidencing the ADSs. The following tables set forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low closing sales prices of the ADRs on Nasdaq and for the Ordinary Shares on the Irish Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange, and have been adjusted to reflect the two-for-one split of the Ordinary Shares and ADRs effected on February 26, 2007:

 

     ADRs
     (in U.S. dollars)
     High    Low

2003

   26.025    17.190

2004

   28.940    13.080

2005

   28.740    19.795

2006

   40.750    23.365

2007

     

First Quarter

   49.215    41.950

Second Quarter

   49.560    37.750

Third Quarter

   42.970    36.210

Fourth Quarter

   49.190    37.420

2008

     

First Quarter

   37.670    25.700

Second Quarter

   32.410    24.190

Third Quarter

   35.010    22.150

Fourth Quarter

   31.930    16.020

Month ending:

     

January 31, 2009

   30.540    24.020

February 28, 2009

   28.470    23.840

March 31, 2009

   24.480    22.060

April 30, 2009

   29.180    23.300

May 31, 2009

   29.900    27.600

June 30, 2009

   31.410    26.330

Period ending July 27, 2009

   30.390    27.610

 

     Ordinary Shares
(Irish Stock Exchange)
     (in Euro)
     High    Low

2003

   3.65    2.55

2004

   3.80    1.81

2005

   4.15    2.72

2006

   5.24    3.25

2007

     

First Quarter

   6.30    5.22

Second Quarter

   6.33    4.86

Third Quarter

   5.60    4.71

Fourth Quarter

   5.75    4.40

2008

     

First Quarter

   4.59    2.55

Second Quarter

   3.39    2.71

Third Quarter

   3.39    2.24

Fourth Quarter

   3.27    1.97

Month ending:

     

January 31, 2009

   3.37    2.87

February 28, 2009

   3.41    2.96

March 31, 2009

   3.08    2.76

April 30, 2009

   3.45    2.87

May 31, 2009

   3.63    3.17

June 30, 2009

   3.77    3.14

Period ending July 27, 2009

   3.43    3.08

 

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     Ordinary Shares
(London Stock Exchange)
     (in Euro)
           High                Low      

2003

   3.63    2.59

2004

   3.78    1.83

2005

   4.15    2.73

2006

   5.21    3.24

2007

     

First Quarter

   6.30    5.28

Second Quarter

   6.27    4.88

Third Quarter

   5.61    4.75

Fourth Quarter

   5.77    4.44

2008

     

First Quarter

   4.59    2.60

Second Quarter

   3.27    2.64

Third Quarter

   3.39    2.22

Fourth Quarter

   3.27    1.98

Month ending:

     

January 31, 2009

   3.37    2.86

February 28, 2009

   3.42    2.97

March 31, 2009

   3.08    2.78

April 30, 2009

   3.42    2.86

May 31, 2009

   3.57    3.16

June 30, 2009

   3.77    3.17

Period ending July 27, 2009

   3.40    3.09

 

Since certain of the Ordinary Shares are held by brokers or other nominees, the number of direct record holders in the United States 83 may not be fully indicative of the number of direct beneficial owners in the United States, or of where the direct beneficial owners of such shares are resident.

 

In order to increase the percentage of its share capital held by EU nationals, beginning June 26, 2001, Ryanair Holdings instructed The Bank of New York to suspend the issuance of new ADRs in exchange for the deposit of Ordinary Shares until further notice. Therefore, holders of Ordinary Shares cannot currently convert their Ordinary Shares into ADRs. The Bank of New York will however convert existing ADRs into Ordinary Shares at the request of the holders of such ADRs. The Company in 2002 implemented additional measures to restrict the ability of non-EU nationals to purchase Ordinary Shares. As a result, non-EU nationals are currently effectively barred from purchasing Ordinary Shares. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Limitations on Share Ownership by Non-EU Nationals” for additional information.

 

At the annual general meeting of the shareholders held on September 21, 2006, the board of directors of the Company received shareholder approval for a share buy-back program allowing a maximum repurchase of approximately 77.2 million Ordinary Shares, representing 5% of the Company’s then outstanding share capital. The maximum price at which the Company may repurchase Ordinary Shares, in accordance with the listing rules of the Irish Stock Exchange and of the Financial Services Authority, is the higher of 5% above the average market value of the Company’s Ordinary Shares for the five business days prior to the day of the repurchase and the price stipulated by Article 5(1) of Commission Regulation (EC) of 22 December 2003 (No. 2273/2003) (which is the higher of the last independent trade and the highest current independent bid on the Irish Stock Exchange). The minimum price at which the Company may repurchase Ordinary Shares is their nominal value, currently €0.635. Following receipt of this approval, the Company announced, in June 2007, the commencement of a €300 million share buy-back program. This buy-back program was not completed before the 2007 annual general meeting. The Directors therefore sought a renewal of the above authority. Permission was received at the annual general meeting of the shareholders held on September 20, 2007 to repurchase a maximum of 75.6 million Ordinary Shares representing 5% of the Company’s then outstanding share capital. The €300 million share buy-back of approximately 59.4 million shares, representing approximately 3.8% of the Company’s pre-existing share capital, was completed in November 2007. In February 2008 the Company announced a second share buy-back program of up to €200 million worth of shares, which was ratified by shareholders at the annual general meeting of the shareholders held on September 18, 2008. To date 18.1 million shares have been repurchased under this program at a total cost of approximately €46.0 million. This is equivalent to approximately 1.2% of the Company’s issued share capital after taking into account such buy-backs. All Ordinary Shares repurchased have been cancelled.

 

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The authorizations for the repurchase of ordinary shares granted at the 2006, 2007 and 2008 annual general meetings were valid for fifteen months from the date of the appropriate annual general meeting at which the resolution approving the buy-back plan was approved, or, if earlier, until the day following the Company’s next annual general meeting.

 

As of June 30, 2009, the total number of options over Ordinary Shares outstanding under all of the Company’s share option plans was 38,724,432, representing 2.6% of the Company’s issued share capital at that date. The number of outstanding options could potentially represent 2.8% of the issued share capital of the Company if the Company were to purchase all of the Ordinary Shares it is authorized to repurchase under the share buy-back plan authorized by the Company’s stockholders at the annual general meeting on September 18, 2008 that have not yet been repurchased.

 

Item 10. Additional Information

 

DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

 

Ryanair Holdings’ capital stock consists of Ordinary Shares, each having a par value of 0.635 Euro cents. As of March 31, 2009, a total of 1,473,356,159 Ordinary Shares were outstanding. On February 26, 2007, Ryanair effected a 2-for-1 share split by which each of its then existing Ordinary Shares, par value 1.27 Euro cents, was split into two new Ordinary Shares, par value 0.635 Euro cents. Each Ordinary Share entitles the holder thereof to one vote in respect of any matter voted upon by Ryanair Holdings’ shareholders.

 

OPTIONS TO PURCHASE SECURITIES FROM REGISTRANT OR SUBSIDIARIES

 

Ryanair Holdings’ shareholders have approved a stock option plan (referred to herein as “Option Plan 2000”), under which all employees and directors are eligible to receive options. Grants of options may be at the close of any of the ten years beginning with fiscal year 2000 only if the Company’s net profit after tax for such fiscal year has exceeded its net profit after tax for the prior fiscal year by at least 25%, or if an increase of 1% in net profit after tax for the relevant year would have resulted in such criterion being met.

 

Ryanair Holdings’ shareholders have also approved a stock option plan (referred to herein as “Option Plan 2003”) established in accordance with a tax-favorable share option scheme available under Irish law, so that employees will not be taxed on the exercise of options (subject to certain conditions). Option Plan 2003 was approved by the Revenue Commissioners on July 4, 2003 for the purposes of Chapter 4, Part 17, of the Irish Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 and Schedule 12C of that act. All employees and full-time directors are eligible to participate in the plan, under which grants of options may be made at the close of any of the ten years beginning with fiscal year 2002 only if the Company’s net profit after tax for such fiscal year has exceeded its net profit after tax for the prior fiscal year by at least 25%, or if an increase of 1% in net profit after tax for the relevant year would have resulted in such criterion being met.

 

Under Option Plan 2000, each of the non-executive directors were granted 25,000 share options, at a strike price of €4.96, during the 2008 fiscal year. These options will become exercisable between June 2012 and June 2014. In addition, 39 senior managers (including eight of the current executive officers) were granted 10,000,000 share options, in the aggregate, under Option Plan 2000, at a strike price of €2.56, on September 18, 2008. These options will become exercisable between September 18, 2013 and September 17, 2015, but only for managers who continue to be employed by the Company through September 18, 2013.

 

Under Option Plan 2003, 47 senior managers (including seven of the current executive officers) were granted 5,550,000 share options at a strike price of €2.35 on November 3, 2004. These options will become exercisable between June 2009 and June 2011, but only for managers who continued to be employed by the Company through June 2009.

 

The aggregate of 41,725,445 Ordinary Shares that would be issuable upon exercise in full of the options that were outstanding as of March 31, 2009 under Company’s option plan represent approximately 2.8% of the issued share capital of Ryanair Holdings as of such date. Of such total, options in respect of an aggregate of 19,761,958 Ordinary Shares were held by the directors and executive officers of Ryanair Holdings. For further information, see notes 15 and 19 to the consolidated financial statements included herein.

 

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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

 

The following is a summary of certain provisions of the Articles of Association of Ryanair Holdings. This summary does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the Articles, which are included as an exhibit to this annual report.

 

Objects. Ryanair Holdings’ objects, which are detailed in its Articles, are broad and include carrying on business as an investment and holding company. Ryanair Holdings’ Irish company registration number is 249885.

 

Directors. Subject to certain exceptions, directors may not vote on matters in which they have a material interest. The ordinary remuneration of the directors is determined from time to time by ordinary resolutions of the shareholders. Any director who holds any executive office, serves on any committee or otherwise performs services, which, in the opinion of the directors, are outside the scope of the ordinary duties of a director, may be paid such extra remuneration as the directors may determine. The directors may exercise all the powers of the Company to borrow money. These powers may be amended by special resolution of the shareholders. The directors are not required to retire at any particular age. There is no requirement for directors to hold shares. One-third of the directors retire and offer themselves for re-election at each annual general meeting of the Company. The directors to retire by rotation are those who have been longest in office since their last appointment or reappointment. As between persons who became or were appointed directors on the same date, those to retire are determined by agreement between them or, otherwise, by lot. All of the shareholders entitled to attend and vote at the annual general meeting of the Company may vote on the re-election of directors.

 

Annual and General Meetings. Annual and extraordinary meetings at which special resolutions are to be voted upon are called upon 21 days’ advance notice. Extraordinary general meetings at which ordinary resolutions are to be voted upon are called upon 14 days’ advance notice. All holders of Ordinary Shares are entitled to attend, speak at and vote at general meetings of the Company, subject to limitations described below under “—Limitations on the Right to Own Shares.”

 

Rights, Preferences and Dividends Attaching to Shares. The Company has only one class of shares, Ordinary Shares with a par value of 0.635 Euro cents per share. All such shares rank equally with respect to payment of dividends and on any winding-up of the Company. Any dividend, interest or other sum payable to a shareholder that remains unclaimed for one year after having been declared may be invested by the directors for the benefit of the Company until claimed. If the directors so resolve, any dividend which has remained unclaimed for 12 years from the date of its declaration shall be forfeited and cease to remain owing by the Company. The Company is permitted under its Articles to issue redeemable shares on such terms and in such manner as the Company may, by special resolution, determine. The Ordinary Shares currently in issue are not redeemable. The liability of shareholders to invest additional capital is limited to the amounts remaining unpaid on the shares held by them. There are no sinking fund provisions in the Articles of the Company.

 

Action Necessary to Change the Rights of Shareholders. The rights attaching to shares in the Company may be varied by special resolutions passed at meetings of the shareholders of the Company.

 

Limitations on the Rights to Own Shares. The Articles contain detailed provisions enabling the directors of the Company to limit the number of shares in which non-EU nationals have an interest or the exercise by non-EU nationals of rights attaching to shares. See “—Limitations on Share Ownership by Non-EU Nationals” below. Such powers may be exercised by the directors if they are of the view that any license, consent, permit or privilege of the Company or any of its subsidiaries that enables it to operate an air service may be refused, withheld, suspended or revoked or have conditions attached to it that inhibit its exercise and exercise of the powers referred to above could prevent such an occurrence. The exercise of such powers could result in non-EU holders of shares being prevented from attending, speaking at or voting at general meetings of the Company and/or being required to dispose of shares held by them to EU nationals.

 

Disclosure of Share Ownership. Under Irish law, the Company can require parties to disclose their interests in shares. The Articles of the Company entitle the directors to require parties to complete declarations indicating their nationality and the nature and extent of any interest which such parties hold in shares before allowing such parties to transfer shares in the Company. See, also “—Limitations on Share Ownership by non-EU nationals” below. Under Irish law, if a party acquires or disposes of shares in the Company so as to bring his interest above or below 5% of the total issued share capital of the Company, he must notify the Company of that. The Irish Stock Exchange must also be notified of any acquisition or disposal of shares that brings the shareholding of a party above or below certain specified percentages—i.e., 10%, 25%, 50% and 70%.

 

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Other Provisions of the Articles of Association. There are no provisions in the Articles:

 

  (i) delaying or prohibiting a change in the control of the Company, but which operate only with respect to a merger, acquisition or corporate restructuring;

 

  (ii) discriminating against any existing or prospective holder of shares as a result of such shareholder owning a substantial number of shares; or

 

  (iii) governing changes in capital,

 

in each case, where such provisions are more stringent than those required by law.

 

MATERIAL CONTRACTS

 

In February 2005, the Company and Boeing entered into a new series of agreements for the purchase by the Company of new Boeing 737-800 aircraft for delivery during the period from April 2008 through March 2012, as well as for options to purchase additional aircraft. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Aircraft” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources” for a detailed discussion of the 2005 Boeing contract.

 

EXCHANGE CONTROLS

 

Except as indicated below, there are no restrictions on non-residents of Ireland dealing in Irish securities (including shares or depositary receipts of Irish companies such as the Company). Dividends and redemption proceeds also continue to be freely transferable to non-resident holders of such securities.

 

Under the Financial Transfers Act 1992 (the “1992 Act”), the Minister for Finance of Ireland may make provision for the restriction of financial transfers between Ireland and other countries. Financial transfers are broadly defined, and the acquisition or disposal of the ADRs, which represent shares issued by an Irish incorporated company, the acquisition or the disposal of Ordinary Shares and associated payments may fall within this definition. Dividends or payments on the redemption or purchase of shares and payments on the liquidation of an Irish-incorporated company would fall within this definition. Orders made by the Minister for Finance pursuant to the 1992 Act prohibit certain financial transfers to (or in respect of funds held by) the governments of certain countries, as well as senior members thereof and members of certain terrorist organizations.

 

The Company does not anticipate that Irish exchange controls or orders under the 1992 Act will have a material effect on its business.

 

LIMITATIONS ON SHARE OWNERSHIP BY NON-EU NATIONALS

 

The board of directors of Ryanair Holdings is given certain powers under the Articles to take action to ensure that the number of shares held in Ryanair Holdings by non-EU nationals does not reach a level which could jeopardize the Company’s entitlement to continue to hold or enjoy the benefit of any license, permit, consent or privilege which it holds or enjoys and which enables it to carry on business as an air carrier (a “License”). In particular, EU Regulation 2407/92 requires that, in order to obtain and retain an operating license, an EU air carrier must be majority-owned and effectively controlled by EU nationals. The regulation does not specify what level of share ownership will confer effective control on a holder or holders of shares. As described below, the directors will, from time to time, set a “Permitted Maximum” on the number of Ordinary Shares that may be owned by non-EU nationals at such level as they believe will comply with EU law. The Permitted Maximum is currently set at 49.9%.

 

Ryanair Holdings maintains a separate register (the “Separate Register”) of shares in which non-EU nationals, whether individuals, bodies corporate or other entities, have an interest (such shares are referred to as “Affected Shares” in the Articles). Interest in this context is widely defined and includes any interest held through ADRs in the shares underlying the relevant ADRs. The directors can require relevant parties to provide them with information to enable a determination to be made by the directors as to whether shares are, or are to be treated as, Affected Shares. If such information is not available or forthcoming or is unsatisfactory then the directors can, at their discretion, determine that shares are to be treated as Affected Shares. Registered holders of

 

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shares are also obliged to notify the Company if they are aware that any share which they hold ought to be treated as an Affected Share for this purpose. With regard to ADRs, the directors can treat all of the relevant underlying shares as Affected Shares unless satisfactory evidence as to why they should not be so treated is forthcoming.

 

In the event that, inter alia, (i) the refusal, withholding, suspension or revocation of any License or the imposition of any condition which materially inhibits the exercise of any License (an “Intervening Act”) has taken place, (ii) the Company receives a notice or direction from any governmental body or any other body which regulates the provision of air transport services to the effect that an Intervening Act is imminent, threatened or intended or (iii) an Intervening Act may occur as a consequence of the level of non-EU ownership of shares or an Intervening Act is imminent, threatened or intended because of the manner of share ownership or control of Ryanair Holdings generally, the directors can take action pursuant to the Articles to deal with the situation. They can, inter alia, (i) remove any directors or change the chairman of the board of directors, (ii) identify those shares, ADRs or Affected Shares which give rise to the need to take action and treat such shares, ADRs, or Affected Shares as Restricted Shares (see below) or (iii) set a “Permitted Maximum” on the number of Affected Shares which may subsist at any time (which may not, save in the circumstances referred to below, be lower than 40% of the total number of issued shares) and treat any Affected Shares (or ADRs representing such Affected Shares) in excess of this Permitted Maximum as Restricted Shares (see below).

 

In addition to the above, if as a consequence of a change of law or a direction, notice or requirement of any state, authority or person it is necessary to reduce the total number of Affected Shares below 40% or reduce the number of Affected Shares held by any particular stockholder or stockholders in order to overcome, prevent or avoid an Intervening Act, the directors may resolve to (i) set the Permitted Maximum at such level below 40% as they consider necessary in order to overcome, prevent or avoid such Intervening Act, or (ii) treat such number of Affected Shares (or ADRs representing Affected Shares) held by any particular stockholder or stockholders as they consider necessary (which could include all of such Affected Shares or ADRs) as Restricted Shares (see below). The directors may serve a Restricted Share Notice in respect of any Affected Share, or any ADR representing any ADS, which is to be treated as a Restricted Share. Such notices can have the effect of depriving the recipients of the rights to attend, vote at and speak at general meetings, which they would otherwise have as a consequence of holding such shares or ADRs. Such notices can also require the recipients to dispose of the shares or ADRs concerned to an EU national (so that the relevant shares (or shares underlying the relevant ADRs) will then cease to be Affected Shares) within 21 days or such longer period as the directors may determine. The directors are also given the power to transfer such shares, themselves, in cases of non-compliance with the Restricted Share Notice.

 

To enable the directors to identify Affected Shares, transferees of Ordinary Shares are generally required to provide a declaration as to the nationality of persons having interests in those shares. Stockholders are also obliged to notify Ryanair Holdings if they are aware that any shares, which they hold, ought to be treated as an Affected Shares for this purpose. Purchasers or transferees of ADRs need not complete a nationality declaration because the directors expect to treat all of the Ordinary Shares held by the Depositary as Affected Shares. ADS holders must open ADR accounts directly with the Depositary if they wish to provide to Ryanair Holdings nationality declarations or such other evidence as the directors may require in order to establish to the directors’ satisfaction that the Ordinary Shares underlying such holder’s ADRs are not Affected Shares.

 

In deciding which Affected Shares are to be selected as Restricted Shares, the directors can take into account which Affected Shares have given rise to the necessity to take action. Subject to that they will, insofar as practicable, firstly view as Restricted Shares those Affected Shares in respect of which no declaration as to whether or not such shares are Affected Shares has been made by the holder thereof and where information which has been requested by the directors in accordance with the Articles has not been provided within specified time periods and, secondly, have regard to the chronological order in which details of Affected Shares have been entered in the Separate Register and, accordingly, treat the most recently registered Affected Shares as Restricted Shares to the extent necessary. Transfers of Affected Shares to Affiliates (as that expression is defined in the Articles) will not affect the chronological order of entry in the Separate Register for this purpose. The directors do however have the discretion to apply another basis of selection if, in their sole opinion, that would be more equitable. Where the directors have resolved to treat Affected Shares held by any particular stockholder or stockholders as Restricted Shares (i) because such Affected Shares have given rise to the need to take such action or (ii) because of a change of law or a requirement or direction of a regulatory authority necessitating such action (see above), such powers may be exercised irrespective of the date upon which such Affected Shares were entered in the Separate Register.

 

After having initially resolved to set the maximum level at 49.0%, the directors increased the maximum level to 49.9% on May 26, 1999, after the number of Affected Shares exceeded the initial limit. This maximum

 

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level could be reduced if it becomes necessary for the directors to exercise these powers in the circumstances described above. The decision to make any such reduction or to change the Permitted Maximum from time to time will be published in at least one national newspaper in Ireland and in any country in which the Ordinary Shares or ADRs are listed. The relevant notice will specify the provisions of the Articles that apply to Restricted Shares and the name of the person or persons who will answer queries relating to Restricted Shares on behalf of Ryanair Holdings. The directors shall publish information as to the number of shares held by EU nationals annually.

 

In an effort to increase the percentage of its share capital held by EU nationals, on June 26, 2001, Ryanair Holdings instructed The Bank of New York, the depositary for its ADR program, to suspend the issuance of new ADSs in exchange for the deposit of Ordinary Shares until further notice to its shareholders. Holders of Ordinary Shares cannot convert their Ordinary Shares into ADRs during such suspension, and there can be no assurance that the suspension will ever be lifted.

 

As a further measure to increase the percentage of shares held by EU nationals, on February 7, 2002, the Company issued a notice to shareholders to the effect that any purchase of Ordinary Shares by a non-EU national after such date will immediately result in the issue of a Restricted Share Notice to such non-EU national Purchaser. The Restricted Share Notice compels the non-EU national purchaser to sell the Affected Shares to an EU national within 21 days of the date of issuance. In the event that any such non-EU national shareholder does not sell its shares to an EU national within the specified time period, the Company can then take legal action to compel such a sale. As a result, non-EU nationals are effectively barred from purchasing Ordinary Shares for as long as these restrictions remain in place. There can be no assurance that these restrictions will ever be lifted.

 

As of June 30, 2009, EU nationals owned at least 53.4% of Ryanair Holdings’ Ordinary Shares (assuming conversion of all outstanding ADRs into Ordinary Shares). Ryanair continuously monitors the ownership status of its Ordinary Shares, which changes on a daily basis.

 

TAXATION

 

Irish Tax Considerations

 

The following is a discussion of certain Irish tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of Ordinary Shares or ADSs. This discussion is based upon tax laws and practice of Ireland at the date of this document, which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. Particular rules may apply to certain classes of taxpayers (such as dealers in securities) and this discussion does not purport to deal with the tax consequences of purchase, ownership or disposition of the relevant securities for all categories of investors.

 

The discussion is intended only as a general guide based on current Irish law and practice and is not intended to be, nor should it be considered to be, legal or tax advice to any particular investor or stockholder. Accordingly, current stockholders or potential investors should satisfy themselves as to the overall tax consequences by consulting their own tax advisers.

 

Dividends. As discussed herein, it is not currently anticipated that Ryanair Holdings will pay dividends. However, if it does pay dividends or makes other relevant distributions, the following is relevant:

 

Withholding Tax. Unless exempted, a withholding at the standard rate of income tax (currently 20%) will apply to dividends or other relevant distributions paid by an Irish resident company. The withholding tax requirement will not apply to distributions paid to certain categories of Irish resident stockholders or to distributions paid to certain categories of non-resident stockholders.

 

The following Irish resident stockholders are exempt from withholding if they make to the Company, in advance of payment of any relevant distribution, an appropriate declaration of entitlement to exemption:

 

   

Irish resident companies;

 

   

Pension schemes approved by the Irish Revenue Commissioners (“Irish Revenue”);

 

   

Qualifying fund managers or qualifying savings managers;

 

   

Personal Retirement Savings Account (“PRSA”) administrators who receive the relevant distribution as income arising in respect of PRSA assets;

 

   

Qualifying employee share ownership trusts;

 

   

Collective investment undertakings;

 

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Tax-exempt charities;

 

   

Designated brokers receiving the distribution for special portfolio investment accounts;

 

   

Any person who is entitled to exemption from income tax under Schedule F on dividends in respect of an investment in whole or in part of payments received in respect of a civil action or from the Personal Injuries Assessment Board for damages in respect of mental or physical infirmity;

 

   

Certain qualifying trusts established for the benefit of an incapacitated individual and/or persons in receipt of income from such a qualifying trust;

 

   

Any person entitled to exemption to income tax under Schedule F by virtue of Section 192(2) Taxes Consolidation Act (“TCA”) 1997;

 

   

Unit trusts to which Section 731(5)(a) TCA 1997 applies; and

 

   

Certain Irish Revenue-approved amateur and athletic sport bodies.

 

The following non-resident stockholders are exempt from withholding if they make to the Company, in advance of payment of any dividend, an appropriate declaration of entitlement to exemption:

 

   

Persons (other than a company) who (i) are neither resident nor ordinarily resident in Ireland and (ii) are resident for tax purposes in (a) a country which has signed a tax treaty with Ireland (a “tax treaty country”) or (b) an EU member state other than Ireland;

 

   

Companies not resident in Ireland which are resident in an EU member state or a tax treaty country, by virtue of the law of a tax treaty country or an EU member state, and are not controlled, directly or indirectly, by Irish residents;

 

   

Companies not resident in Ireland which are directly or indirectly controlled by a person or persons who are, by virtue of the law of a tax treaty country or an EU member state, resident for tax purposes in a tax treaty country or an EU member state other than Ireland and which are not controlled directly or indirectly by persons who are not resident for tax purposes in a tax treaty country or EU member state;

 

   

Companies not resident in Ireland the principal class of shares of which is substantially and regularly traded on a recognized stock exchange in a tax treaty country or an EU member state including Ireland or on an approved stock exchange; or

 

   

Companies not resident in Ireland that are 75% subsidiaries of a single company, or are wholly-owned by two or more companies, in either case the principal classes of shares of which is or are substantially and regularly traded on a recognized stock exchange in a tax treaty country or an EU member state including Ireland or on an approved stock exchange.

 

In the case of a non-resident stockholder resident in an EU member state or tax treaty country, the declaration must be accompanied by a current certificate of tax residence from the tax authorities in the stockholder’s country of residence. In addition, in the case of non-resident companies that are tax residents of an EU member state other than Ireland or a tax treaty country or non-resident companies controlled by residents of an EU member state including Ireland or of a tax treaty country or the shares of which are substantially and regularly traded on a stock exchange in an EU member state other than Ireland or a tax treaty country, certain certification by their auditors is required. The declaration also must contain an undertaking by the non-resident or non-ordinarily resident person that he, she or it will advise the relevant person accordingly if he, she or it ceases to be a non-resident or non-ordinary resident. No declaration is required if the stockholder is a 5% parent company in another EU member state pursuant to the EC Parents-Subsidiary Directive. Neither is a declaration required on the payment by a company resident in Ireland to another company so resident if the company making the dividend is a 51% subsidiary of that other company.

 

American Depositary Receipts. Special arrangements with regard to the dividend withholding tax obligation apply in the case of Irish companies using ADRs through U.S. depositary banks that have been authorized by the Irish Revenue. Such banks, which receive dividends from the company and pass them on to the U.S. ADS holders beneficially entitled to such dividends, will be allowed to receive and pass on the gross dividends (i.e., before withholding) based on an “address system” where the recorded addresses of such holder, as listed in the depositary bank’s register of depositary receipts, is in the United States.

 

Taxation on Dividends. Companies resident in Ireland other than those taxable on receipt of dividends as trading income are exempt from corporation tax on distributions received on Ordinary Shares from other Irish resident companies. Stockholders that are “close” companies for Irish taxation purposes may, however, be subject to a 20% corporation tax surcharge on undistributed investment income.

 

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Individual stockholders who are resident or ordinarily resident in Ireland are subject to income tax on the gross dividend at their marginal tax rate, but are entitled to a credit for the tax withheld by the company paying the dividend. The dividend will also be subject to the new income tax levy. An individual stockholder who is not liable or not fully liable for income tax by reason of exemption or otherwise may be entitled to receive an appropriate refund of tax withheld. A charge to Irish social security taxes/levies can also arise for such individuals on the amount of any dividend received from the Company.

 

Except in certain circumstances, a person who is neither resident nor ordinarily resident in Ireland and is entitled to receive dividends without deductions is not liable for Irish tax on the dividends. Where a person who is neither resident nor ordinarily resident in Ireland is subject to withholding tax on the dividend received due to not benefiting from any exemption from such withholding, the amount of that withholding will generally satisfy such person’s liability for Irish tax.

 

Capital Gains Tax. A person who is either resident or ordinarily resident in Ireland will generally be liable for Irish capital gains tax on any gain realized on the disposal of the Ordinary Shares or ADSs. The current capital gains tax rate is 25%. A person who is neither resident nor ordinarily resident in Ireland and who does not carry on a trade in Ireland through a branch or agency will not be subject to Irish capital gains tax on the disposal of the Ordinary Shares or ADSs.

 

Irish Capital Acquisitions Tax. A gift or inheritance of the Ordinary Shares or ADSs will be within the charge to Irish Capital Acquisitions Tax (“CAT”) notwithstanding that the disposer (e.g., a donor) or the donee/successor in relation to such gift or inheritance is resident outside Ireland. CAT is charged at a rate of 25% above a tax-free threshold. This tax-free threshold is determined by the amount of the current benefit and of previous benefits taken since December 5, 1991, as relevant, within the charge to CAT and the relationship between the donor and the successor or donee. Gifts and inheritances between spouses (and in certain cases former spouses) are not subject to CAT.

 

In a case where an inheritance or gift of the Ordinary Shares or ADSs is subject to both Irish CAT and foreign tax of a similar character, the foreign tax paid may in certain circumstances be credited in whole or in part against the Irish tax.

 

Irish Stamp Duty. It is assumed for the purposes of this paragraph that ADSs are dealt in on a recognized stock exchange in the United States (the Nasdaq is a recognized stock exchange in the United States for this purpose). Under current Irish law, no stamp duty will be payable on the acquisition of ADSs by persons purchasing such ADSs or on any subsequent transfer of ADSs. A transfer of Ordinary Shares (including transfers effected through Euroclear U.K. & Ireland Limited) wherever executed and whether on sale, in contemplation of a sale or by way of a gift, will be subject to duty at the rate of 1% of the consideration given or, in the case of a gift or if the purchase price is inadequate or unascertainable, on the market value of the Ordinary Shares. Transfers of Ordinary Shares that are not liable for duty at the rate of 1% (e.g., transfers under which there is no change in beneficial ownership) may be subject to a fixed duty of €12.50.

 

The Irish Revenue treats a conversion of Ordinary Shares to ADSs made in contemplation of a sale or a change in beneficial ownership (under Irish law) as an event subject to stamp duty at a rate of 1%. The Irish Revenue has indicated that a re-conversion of ADSs to Ordinary Shares made in contemplation of a sale or a change in beneficial ownership (under Irish law) will not be subject to a stamp duty. However, the subsequent sale of the re-converted Ordinary Shares will give rise to Irish stamp duty at the 1% rate. If the transfer of the Ordinary Shares is a transfer under which there is no change in the beneficial ownership (under Irish law) of the Ordinary Shares being transferred, nominal stamp duty only will be payable on the transfer. Under Irish law, it is not clear whether the mere deposit of Ordinary Shares for ADSs or ADSs for Ordinary Shares would be deemed to constitute a change in beneficial ownership. Accordingly, it is possible that holders would be subject to stamp duty at the 1% rate when merely depositing Ordinary Shares for ADSs or ADSs for Ordinary Shares and, consequently, the Depositary reserves the right in such circumstances to require payment of stamp duty at the rate of 1% from the holders.

 

The person accountable for payment of stamp duty is the transferee or, in the case of a transfer by way of a gift or for a consideration less than the market value, all parties to the transfer. Stamp duty is normally payable within 30 days after the date of execution of the transfer. Late or inadequate payment of stamp duty will result in liability for interest, penalties and fines.

 

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United States Tax Considerations

 

Except as described below under the heading “Non-U.S. Holders,” the following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax considerations relating to the purchase, ownership and disposition of Ordinary Shares or ADRs by a holder that is a citizen or resident of the United States, a U.S. domestic corporation or otherwise subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of the Ordinary Shares or the ADRs (“U.S. Holders”). This summary does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to a decision to purchase the Ordinary Shares or the ADRs. In particular, the summary deals only with U.S. Holders that will hold Ordinary Shares or ADRs as capital assets and generally does not address the tax treatment of U.S. Holders that may be subject to special tax rules such as banks, insurance companies, dealers in securities or currencies, traders in securities electing to mark to market, persons that own 10% or more of the stock of the Company, U.S. Holders whose “functional currency” is not U.S. dollars or persons that hold the Ordinary Shares or the ADRs as part of an integrated investment (including a “straddle”) consisting of the Ordinary Shares or the ADRs and one or more other positions.

 

Holders of the Ordinary Shares or the ADRs should consult their own tax advisors as to the U.S. or other tax consequences of the purchase, ownership, and disposition of the Ordinary Shares or the ADRs in light of their particular circumstances, including, in particular, the effect of any foreign, state or local tax laws.

 

For U.S. federal income tax purposes, holders of the ADRs will be treated as the owners of the Ordinary Shares represented by those ADRs.

 

Taxation of Dividends. Dividends, if any, paid with respect to the Ordinary Shares, including Ordinary Shares represented by ADRs, will be included in the gross income of a U.S. Holder when the dividends are received by the holder or the Depositary. Such dividends will not be eligible for the “dividends received” deduction allowed to U.S. corporations in respect of dividends from a domestic corporation. Dividends paid in Euro will be includible in the income of a U.S. Holder in a U.S. dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the day they are received by the holder or the Depositary. U.S. Holders generally should not be required to recognize any foreign currency gain or loss to the extent such dividends paid in Euro are converted into U.S. dollars immediately upon receipt.

 

Subject to certain exceptions for short-term and hedged positions, the U.S. dollar amount of dividends received by an individual prior to January 1, 2011 with respect to the Ordinary Shares or ADRs will be subject to taxation at a maximum rate of 15% if the dividends are “qualified dividends.” Dividends paid on the Ordinary Shares or ADRs will be treated as qualified dividends if (i) the issuer is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States that the Internal Revenue Service has approved for the purposes of the qualified dividend rules and (ii) the Company was not, in the year prior to the year in which the dividend was paid, and is not, in the year in which the dividend is paid, a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”). The income tax treaty between Ireland and the United States has been approved for the purposes of the qualified dividend rules. Based on the Company’s audited financial statements and relevant market data, the Company believes that it was not treated as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes with respect to its 2008/9 taxable year. In addition, based on the Company’s audited financial statements and its current expectations regarding the value and nature of its assets, the sources and nature of its income, and relevant market data, the Company does not anticipate becoming a PFIC for its 2009/10 taxable year.

 

Under the U.S.-Ireland Income Tax Treaty currently in effect, in the event the Company were to pay any dividend, the tax credit attaching to the dividend (as used herein the “Tax Credit”; see “—Irish Tax Considerations”) generally will be treated as a foreign income tax eligible for credit against such U.S. Holder’s United States federal income tax liability, subject to generally applicable limitations and conditions. Any such dividend paid by the Company to such U.S. Holder will constitute income from sources outside the United States for foreign tax credit purposes, and generally will constitute “passive category” income for such purposes.

 

Foreign tax credits may not be allowed for withholding taxes imposed in respect of certain short-term or hedged positions in securities.

 

U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors concerning the implications of these rules in light of their particular circumstances.

 

Distributions of Ordinary Shares that are made as part of a pro rata distribution to all stockholders generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.

 

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Sale or Disposition of Ordinary Shares or ADRs. Gains or losses realized by a U.S. Holder on the sale or other disposition of ADRs generally will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as capital gains or losses, which generally will be long-term capital gains or losses if the ADRs have been held for more than one year. The net amount of long-term capital gain recognized by an individual holder before January 1, 2011 generally is subject to taxation at a maximum rate of 15%. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.

 

Deposits and withdrawals of Ordinary Shares by U.S. Holders in exchange for ADRs will not result in the realization of gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

Non-U.S. Holders. A holder of Ordinary Shares or ADRs that is, with respect to the United States, a foreign corporation or a nonresident alien individual (a “Non-U.S. Holder”) generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax on dividends received on such Ordinary Shares or ADRs unless such income is effectively connected with the conduct by such holder of a trade or business in the United States. A Non-U.S. Holder of ADRs or Ordinary Shares will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax or withholding tax in respect of gain realized on the sale or other disposition of Ordinary Shares or ADRs, unless (i) such gain is effectively connected with the conduct by such holder of a trade or business in the United States or (ii) in the case of gain realized by an individual Non-U.S. Holder, such Non-U.S. Holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale and certain other conditions are met.

 

DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

 

Copies of Ryanair Holdings’ Articles may be examined at its registered office and principal place of business at its Corporate Head Office, Dublin Airport, County Dublin, Ireland.

 

Ryanair Holdings also files reports, including annual reports on Form 20-F, periodic reports on Form 6-K and other information, with the SEC pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC that apply to foreign private issuers. You may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at its Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.

 

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

GENERAL

 

Ryanair is exposed to market risks relating to fluctuations in commodity prices, interest rates and currency exchange rates. The objective of financial risk management at Ryanair is to minimize the negative impact of commodity price, interest rate and foreign exchange rate fluctuations on the Company’s earnings, cash flows and equity.

 

To manage these risks, Ryanair uses various derivative financial instruments, including interest rate swaps, foreign currency forward contracts and commodity forwards. These derivative financial instruments are generally held to maturity and are not actively traded. The Company enters into these arrangements with the goal of hedging its operational and balance sheet risk. However, Ryanair’s exposure to commodity price, interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations cannot be neutralized completely.

 

In executing its risk management strategy, Ryanair currently enters into forward contracts for the purchase of some of the jet fuel that it expects to use. It also uses foreign currency forward contracts intended to reduce its exposure to risks related to foreign currencies, principally the U.S. dollar. Furthermore, it enters into interest rate contracts with the objective of fixing certain borrowing costs and hedging principal repayments, particularly those associated with the purchase of new Boeing 737-800s. Ryanair is also exposed to the risk that the counterparties to its derivative financial instruments may not be creditworthy. Were a counterparty to default on its obligations under any of the instruments described below, Ryanair’s economic expectations when entering into these arrangements might not be achieved and its financial condition could be adversely affected. Transactions involving derivative financial instruments are also relatively illiquid as compared with those involving other kinds of financial instruments. It is Ryanair’s policy not to enter into transactions involving financial derivatives for speculative purposes.

 

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The following paragraphs describe Ryanair’s fuel hedging, foreign currency and interest rate swap arrangements and analyze the sensitivity of the market value, earnings and cash flows of the financial instruments to hypothetical changes in commodity prices, interest rates and exchange rates as if these changes had occurred at March 31, 2009. The range of changes selected for this sensitivity analysis reflects Ryanair’s view of the changes that are reasonably possible over a one-year period.

 

FUEL PRICE EXPOSURE AND HEDGING

 

Fuel costs constitute a substantial portion of Ryanair’s operating expenses (approximately 44.1% and 36.4% of such expenses in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, respectively, after taking into account Ryanair’s fuel hedging activities). Ryanair engages in fuel price hedging transactions from time to time, pursuant to which Ryanair and a counterparty agree to exchange payments equal to the difference between a fixed price for a given quantity of jet fuel and the market price for such quantity of jet fuel at a given date in the future, with Ryanair receiving the amount of any excess of such market price over such fixed price and paying to the counterparty the amount of any excess of such fixed price over such market price.

 

Ryanair has historically entered into arrangements providing for substantial protection against fluctuations in fuel prices, generally through forward contracts covering periods of up to 18 months of anticipated jet fuel requirements. Ryanair (like many other airlines) has, in more recent periods, entered into hedging arrangements on a much more selective basis. See “Item 3. Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Changes in Fuel Costs and Fuel Availability Affect the Company’s Results and Increase the Likelihood that the Company May Incur Losses” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks—Fuel Price Exposure and Hedging” for additional information on recent trends in fuel costs and the Company’s related hedging activities, as well as certain associated risks. See also “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Fiscal Year 2009 Compared with Fiscal Year 2008—Fuel and Oil.” Ryanair has entered into forward jet fuel (jet kerosene) contracts covering approximately 90% of its estimated requirements for the period from April to December 2009 at prices equivalent to approximately $620 per metric ton. In addition, Ryanair has entered into forward jet fuel (jet kerosene) contracts covering approximately 60% of its estimated requirements for the period from January 2010 to March 2010 at prices equivalent to $610 per metric ton. While these hedging strategies can cushion the impact on Ryanair of fuel price increases in the short term, in the medium to longer-term, such strategies cannot be expected to eliminate the impact on the Company of an increase in the market price of jet fuel. The unrealized losses on outstanding forward agreements at March 31, 2009 and the unrealized gains at March 31, 2008, based on their fair values, amounted to €106.7 million and €6.0 million (gross of tax), respectively. Based on Ryanair’s fuel consumption for the 2009 fiscal year, a change of $1.00 in the average annual price per metric ton of jet fuel would have caused a change of approximately €1.1 million in Ryanair’s fuel costs. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to the Company—Changes in Fuel Costs and Fuel Availability Affect the Company’s Results and Increase the Likelihood that the Company May Incur Losses.”

 

Under IFRS, the Company’s fuel forward contracts are treated as cash-flow hedges of forecast fuel purchases for risks arising from the commodity price of fuel. The contracts are recorded at fair value in the balance sheet and are re-measured to fair value at the end of each fiscal period through equity to the extent effective, with any ineffectiveness recorded through the income statement. The Company has considered these hedges to be highly effective in offsetting variability in future cash flows arising from fluctuations in the market price of fuel because the fuel forward contracts typically relate to the same quantity, time, and location of delivery as the forecast fuel purchase being hedged and the duration of the contracts is typically short. Accordingly, the quantification of the change in expected cash flows of the forecast fuel purchase is based on the fuel forward price, and in the 2009 fiscal year, the Company recorded no hedge ineffectiveness within earnings. The Company has recorded no level of ineffectiveness on its fuel hedges in its income statements to date. In the 2009 fiscal year, the Company recorded a negative fair-value adjustment of €93.3 million (net of tax) within accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of jet fuel forward contracts, and in the 2008 fiscal year, the Company recorded a positive fair-value adjustment of €5.3 million (net of tax) within accumulated other comprehensive income.

 

FOREIGN CURRENCY EXPOSURE AND HEDGING

 

In recent years, Ryanair’s revenues have been denominated primarily in two currencies, the Euro and U.K. pound sterling. The U.K. pound sterling and the Euro accounted for approximately 32% and 58%, respectively, of Ryanair’s total revenues in the 2009 fiscal year, as compared to approximately 38% and 53%,

 

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respectively, in the 2008 fiscal year. As Ryanair reports its results in Euro, the Company is not exposed to any material currency risk as a result of its Euro-denominated activities. Ryanair’s operating expenses are primarily denominated in Euro, U.K. pounds sterling and U.S. dollars. Ryanair’s operations can be subject to significant direct exchange rate risks between the Euro and the U.S. dollar because a significant portion of its operating costs (particularly those related to fuel purchases) is incurred in U.S. dollars, while none of its revenues are denominated in U.S. dollars. Appreciation of the Euro against the U.S. dollar positively impacts Ryanair’s operating income because the Euro equivalent of its U.S. dollar operating costs decreases, while depreciation of the Euro against the U.S. dollar negatively impacts operating income. It is Ryanair’s policy to hedge against a certain portion of its exposure to fluctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the U.K. pound sterling at the time Ryanair enters into U.S. dollar-denominated purchases. In general, Ryanair does not hedge its operating surpluses and shortfalls in currencies other than the U.S. dollar and the U.K. pound sterling.

 

Hedging associated with operating expenses. In the 2009 and 2008 fiscal years, the Company entered into a series of forward contracts, principally Euro/U.S. dollar forward contracts to hedge against variability in cash flows arising from market fluctuations in foreign exchange rates associated with its forecast fuel, maintenance and insurance costs. At March 31, 2009, the total unrealized gain relating to these contracts amounted to €45.9 million, compared to an €88.5 million unrealized loss at March 31, 2008.

 

Under IFRS, these foreign currency forward contracts are treated as cash-flow hedges of forecast U.S. dollar and U.K. pound sterling purchases to address the risks arising from U.S. dollar and U.K. pound sterling exchange rates. The derivatives are recorded at fair value in the balance sheet and are re-measured to fair value at the end of each reporting period through equity to the extent effective, with ineffectiveness recorded through the income statement. Ryanair considers these hedges to be highly effective in offsetting variability in future cash flows arising from fluctuations in exchange rates, because the forward contracts are timed so as to match exactly the amount, currency and maturity date of the forecast foreign currency-denominated expense being hedged. In the 2009 fiscal year, the Company recorded a positive fair-value adjustment of €40.2 million (net of tax) within accumulated other comprehensive income in respect of these contracts, as compared to a negative adjustment of €77.4 million in the 2008 fiscal year.

 

Hedging associated with capital expenditures. During the 2009 and 2008 fiscal years, the Company also entered into a series of U.K. pound sterling/U.S. dollar and Euro/U.S. dollar contracts to hedge against changes in the fair value of aircraft purchase commitments under the Boeing contracts, which arise from fluctuations in the U.K. pound sterling/U.S. dollar and Euro/U.S. dollar exchange rates. At March 31, 2009, the total unrealized gains relating to these contracts amounted to €144.0 million, while at March 31, 2008 unrealized losses amounted to €65.2 million. Under IFRS, in the 2009 fiscal year, the Company recorded positive fair-value adjustments of €143.3 million for cash-flow hedges and €0.7 million for fair-value hedges. Under IFRS, the Company generally accounts for these contracts as either cash-flow hedges or fair-value hedges. Fair-value hedges are recorded in the balance sheet at fair value. Any gains or losses arising on these instruments, as well as the related gain or loss on the underlying aircraft purchase commitment, are recorded in the balance sheet. Any related ineffectiveness is measured by the amount by which these adjustments to earnings do not match. Cash-flow hedges are recorded at fair value in the balance sheet and are re-measured to fair value at the end of the financial period through equity to the extent effective, with any ineffectiveness recorded through the income statement. The Company expects these hedges to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value of the aircraft purchase commitments arising from fluctuations in exchange rates because the forward exchange contracts are always for the same amount, currency and maturity dates as the corresponding aircraft purchase commitments.

 

Holding other variables constant, if there were an adverse change of ten percent in relevant foreign currency exchange rates, the market value of Ryanair’s foreign currency contracts outstanding at March 31, 2009 would decrease by approximately €189.8 million (net of tax), all of which would ultimately impact earnings when such contracts mature.

 

INTEREST RATE EXPOSURE AND HEDGING

 

The Company’s purchase of 135 of the 181 Boeing 737-800 aircraft in the fleet as of March 31, 2009 has been funded by bank financing in the form of loans supported by a loan guarantee from ExIm Bank (with respect to 109 aircraft), JOLCOs and commercial debt. With respect to these 135 aircraft, at March 31, 2009, the Company had outstanding cumulative borrowings under these facilities of €2,398.4 million with a weighted average interest rate of 3.77%. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and

 

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Capital Resources—Capital Resources” for additional information on these facilities and the related swaps, including a tabular summary of the “Effective Borrowing Profile” illustrating the effect of the swap transactions (each of which is with an established international financial counterparty) on the profile of Ryanair’s aircraft-related debt at March 31, 2009. At March 31, 2009, the fair value of the interest rate swap agreements relating to this floating rate debt was represented by a loss of €60.9 million (gross of tax), as compared with a loss of €42.4 million at March 31, 2008. See Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 for additional information.

 

The Company also enters into interest rate swaps to hedge against floating rental payments associated with certain aircraft financed through operating lease arrangements. Through the use of interest rate swaps, Ryanair has effectively converted the floating-rate rental payments due under 12 of these leases into fixed-rate payments. At March 31, 2009, the fair value of the interest rate swap agreements relating to leases on a mark-to-market basis was equivalent to a loss of €23.9 million (gross of tax), as compared with a loss of €18.9 million at March 31, 2008. These financial instruments are, accordingly, recorded at fair value in the balance sheet and are subsequently re-measured to fair value through equity to the extent effective, with ineffectiveness recorded through the income statement. The Company has recorded no material level of ineffectiveness on these swaps as they have the same critical terms as the underlying item being hedged. Under IFRS, the Company accounts for all of its swaps as cash-flow hedges of variable rental payments or variable rate debt payments. At March 31, 2009, the Company recorded a total negative fair-value adjustment of €20.9 million (net of tax) relating to these arrangements, which was included within accumulated other comprehensive income, as compared with a €16.5 million negative fair-value adjustment at March 31, 2008. This loss will be realized within earnings over the period from the expected drawdown of the related financing (i.e., over a period of up to 12 years from March 31, 2009), with an increase in the related interest expense.

 

If Ryanair had not entered into such derivative agreements, a plus or minus one percentage point movement in interest rates would impact the fair value of this liability by approximately €21.3 million. The earnings and cash-flow impact of any such change in interest rates would have been approximately plus or minus €17.3 million per year.

 

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

 

Not applicable.

 

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PART II

 

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

 

None.

 

Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

 

None.

 

Item 15. Controls and Procedures

 

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

The Company has carried out an evaluation, as of March 31, 2009, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives. Based upon the Company’s evaluation, the chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that, as of March 31, 2009, the disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the reports the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported as and when required, within the time periods specified in the applicable rules and forms, and that it is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

MANAGEMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

 

   

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;

 

   

provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors; and

 

   

provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

The Company’s management evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2009, based on the criteria established in “Internal Control—Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on the evaluation, management has concluded that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2009.

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG, has issued an auditor’s report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, which is included in its entirety below.

 

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ATTESTATION REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Shareholders

Ryanair Holdings plc:

 

We have audited Ryanair Holdings plc’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Ryanair Holdings plc’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, appearing under Item 15 in this Annual Report on Form 20-F. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on Ryanair Holdings plc’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, Ryanair Holdings plc maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by COSO.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Ryanair Holdings plc and subsidiaries, as of March 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated income statements, cash flow statements and statements of recognised income and expense for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2009, and our report dated July 28, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

 

KPMG

Dublin, Ireland

July 28, 2009

 

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CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

There has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the 2009 fiscal year that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 16. Reserved

 

Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert

 

The Company’s board of directors has determined that Emmanuel Faber qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of this Item 16A. Mr. Faber is “independent” for purposes of the listing rules of the Nasdaq.

 

Item 16B. Code of Ethics

 

The Company has adopted a broad Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that meets the requirements for a “code of ethics” as defined in Item 16B of Form 20-F. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics applies to the Company’s chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief accounting officer, controller and persons performing similar functions, as well as to all of the Company’s other officers, directors and employees. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is available on Ryanair’s website at http://www.ryanair.com. (Information appearing on the website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report.) The Company has not made any amendment to, or granted any waiver from, the provisions of this Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that apply to its chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief accounting officer, controller or persons performing similar functions during its most recently completed fiscal year.

 

Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Audit and Non-Audit Fees

 

The following table sets forth the fees billed or billable to the Company by its independent auditors, KPMG, during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

     Year ended March 31,
         2009            2008    
     (thousands)

Audit fees

   515    510

Audit-related fees

     9      6

Tax fees

     249      200
             

Total fees

   773    716
             

 

Audit fees in the above table are the aggregate fees billed or billable by KPMG in connection with the audit of the Company’s annual financial statements, as well as work that generally only the independent auditor can reasonably be expected to provide, including the provision of comfort letters, statutory audits, discussions surrounding the proper application of financial accounting and reporting standards and services provided in connection with certain regulatory requirements including those under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

Audit-related fees in the above table are the aggregate fees billed by KPMG for assurance and related services that are traditionally performed by the independent auditor, including due diligence related to mergers and acquisitions and employee benefit plan audits.

 

Tax fees include all services, except those services specifically related to the audit of financial statements, performed by the independent auditor’s tax personnel, work performed in support of other tax-related regulatory requirements and tax compliance reporting.

 

Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

 

The audit committee expressly pre-approves every engagement of Ryanair’s independent auditors for all audit and non-audit services provided to the Company.

 

Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

 

None.

 

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Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

 

The following table details purchases by the Company of its Ordinary Shares in the 2009 fiscal year pursuant to its €200 million Ordinary Share buy-back program announced in February 2008:

 

Month / Period

   Total Number
of Ordinary
Shares
Purchased
   Average Price
Paid Per
Ordinary Share
   Total Number of
Ordinary Shares
Purchased as Part
of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
   Approximate
Value of Ordinary
Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
(Including
Purchase Costs)
     (Millions)         (Millions)    (€ Thousands)

April 1, 2008 to April 30, 2008

   11.85    2.76    11.85    166,938

May 1, 2008 to May 31, 2008

   —        —      —      166,938

June 1, 2008 to June 30, 2008

   —        —      —      166,938

July 1, 2008 to July 31, 2008

   —        —      —      166,938

August 1, 2008 to August 31, 2008

   —        —      —      166,938

September 1, 2008 to September 30, 2008

   —        —      —      166,938

October 1, 2008 to October 31, 2008

   6.25    2.05    6.25    153,984

November 1, 2008 to November 30, 2008

   —        —      —      153,984

December 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008

   —        —      —      153,984

January 1, 2009 to January 31, 2009

   —        —      —      153,984

February 1, 2009 to February 29, 2009

   —        —      —      153,984

March 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009

   —        —      —      153,984
                     

Total (Year-end)

   18.10    2.51    18.10    153,984

 

See “Item 8. Financial Information—Other Information—Share Buy-Back Program” and “Item 9. The Offer and Listing—Trading Markets and Share Prices” for further information regarding the Company’s Ordinary Share buy-back program, pursuant to which all of the shares purchased by the Company and disclosed in the table above were purchased.

 

Item 16F. Change in Registrant’s Certified Accountant

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 16G. Corporate Governance

 

See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Directors—Exemptions from Nasdaq Corporate Governance Rules” for further information regarding the ways in which the Company’s corporate governance practices differ from those followed by domestic companies listed on Nasdaq.

 

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PART III

 

Item 17. Financial Statements

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 18. Financial Statements

 

RYANAIR HOLDINGS PLC

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

     Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   F-1

Consolidated Balance Sheets of Ryanair Holdings plc at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008

   F-2

Consolidated Income Statements of Ryanair Holdings plc for the Years ended March 31, 2009, March  31, 2008 and March 31, 2007

   F-3

Consolidated Cash Flow Statements of Ryanair Holdings plc for the Years Ended March 31, 2009, March  31, 2008 and March 31, 2007

   F-4

Consolidated Statements of Recognized Income and Expense of Ryanair Holdings plc for the Years ended March  31, 2009, March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007

   F-5

Notes

   F-6

 

Item 19. Exhibits

 

1.1    Memorandum and Articles of Association of Ryanair Holdings in effect as of the date of this Annual Report.
1.2    The total amount of long-term debt securities of Ryanair Holdings authorized under any instrument does not exceed 10.0% of the total assets of the Company on a consolidated basis. Ryanair Holdings hereby agrees to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request a copy of any instrument defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant or of its subsidiaries for which consolidated or unconsolidated financial statements are required to be filed.
4.1    Purchase Agreement No. 2403 between The Boeing Company and Ryanair Holdings plc relating to Model Boeing 737-800 aircraft, together with ancillary documents (subject to a request for confidential treatment that has been granted) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of Ryanair Holdings’ Annual Report on Form 20-F filed on September 30, 2002 (Commission file No. 000-29304)).
4.2    Supplemental Agreement No. 6 to Purchase Agreement 2403 between The Boeing Company and Ryanair Holdings plc relating to Model Boeing 737-800 aircraft, dated as of February 28, 2005, together with ancillary documents (subject to a request for confidential treatment that has been granted) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of Ryanair Holdings’ Annual Report on Form 20-F filed on September 30, 2005 (Commission file No. 000-29304)).
8.1    List of principal subsidiaries of the registrant (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8.1 of Ryanair Holdings’ Annual Report or Form 20-F filed on September 20, 2007 (Commission file No. 000-29304)).
12.1    Certifications pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
13.1   

Certifications pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

 

RYANAIR HOLDINGS PLC
 

             /s/    MICHAEL O’ LEARY        

Name:                    Michael O’Leary
Title:                    Chief Executive Officer and Director
Date: July 28, 2009

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Shareholders

Ryanair Holdings plc:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Ryanair Holdings plc and subsidiaries (the Company) as of March 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated income statements, cash flow statements and statements of recognised income and expense, for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2009. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Ryanair Holdings plc and subsidiaries as of March 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2009, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and also IFRSs as adopted by the European Union.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Ryanair Holdings plc’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated July 28, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/ KPMG

Dublin, Ireland

July 28, 2009

 

F-1


Table of Contents

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

          At March 31,
2009
   At March 31,
2008
 
     Note    €000    €000  

Non-current assets

        

Property, plant and equipment

   2    3,644,824    3,582,126   

Intangible assets

   3    46,841    46,841   

Available for sale financial assets

   4    93,150    311,462   

Derivative financial instruments

   5    59,970    —     
              

Total non-current assets

      3,844,785    3,940,429   
              

Current assets

        

Inventories

   6    2,075    1,997   

Other assets

   7    91,053    169,580   

Current tax

   12    —      1,585   

Trade receivables

   8    41,791    34,178   

Derivative financial instruments

   5    129,962    10,228   

Restricted cash

   9    291,601    292,431   

Financial assets: cash > 3 months

      403,401    406,274   

Cash and cash equivalents

      1,583,194    1,470,849   
              

Total current assets

      2,543,077    2,387,122   
              

Total assets

      6,387,862    6,327,551   
              

Current liabilities

        

Trade payables

      132,671    129,289   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

   10    905,715    919,349   

Current maturities of debt

   11    202,941    366,801   

Current tax

   12    425    —     

Derivative financial instruments

   5    137,439    141,711   
              

Total current liabilities

      1,379,191    1,557,150   
              

Non-current liabilities

        

Provisions

   13    71,964    44,810   

Derivative financial instruments

   5    54,074    75,685   

Deferred tax

   12    155,524    148,088   

Other creditors

   14    106,549    99,930   

Non-current maturities of debt

   11    2,195,499    1,899,694   
              

Total non-current liabilities

      2,583,610    2,268,207   
              

Shareholders’ equity

        

Issued share capital

   15    9,354    9,465   

Share premium account

   15    617,426    615,815   

Capital redemption reserve

   16    493    378   

Retained earnings

   16    1,777,727    2,000,422   

Other reserves

   16    20,061    (123,886
              

Shareholders’ equity

      2,425,061    2,502,194   
              

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

      6,387,862    6,327,551   
              

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial information.

 

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Table of Contents

Consolidated Income Statements

 

          Year ended
March 31,
2009
    Year ended
March 31,
2008
    Year ended
March 31,
2007
 
     Note    €000     €000     €000  

Operating revenues

         

Scheduled revenues

      2,343,868      2,225,692      1,874,791   

Ancillary revenues

   17    598,097      488,130      362,104   
                     

Total operating revenues—continuing operations

   17    2,941,965      2,713,822      2,236,895   
                     

Operating expenses

         

Staff costs

   18    (309,296   (285,343   (226,580

Depreciation

   2    (256,117   (175,949   (143,503

Fuel and oil

      (1,257,062   (791,327   (693,331

Maintenance, materials and repairs

      (66,811   (56,709   (42,046

Marketing and distribution costs

      (12,753   (17,168   (23,795

Aircraft rentals

      (78,209   (72,670   (58,183

Route charges

      (286,559   (259,280   (199,240

Airport and handling charges

      (443,387   (396,326   (273,613

Other

      (139,140   (121,970   (104,859
                     

Total operating expenses

      (2,849,334   (2,176,742   (1,765,150
                     

Operating profit—continuing operations

      92,631      537,080      471,745   

Other income/(expenses)

         

Finance income

      75,522      83,957      62,983   

Finance expense

   20    (130,544   (97,088   (82,876

Foreign exchange gain/(losses)

      4,441      (5,606   (906

Loss on impairment of available-for-sale financial asset

   4    (222,537   (91,569   —     

Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment

      —        12,153      91   
                     

Total other income/(expenses)

      (273,118   (98,153   (20,708
                     

(Loss)/profit before tax

      (180,487   438,927      451,037   

Tax on (loss)/profit on ordinary activities

   12    11,314      (48,219   (15,437
                     

(Loss)/profit for the year—all attributable to equity holders of parent

      (169,173   390,708      435,600   
                     

Basic earnings per ordinary share (Euro cents)

   22    (11.44   25.84      28.20   

Diluted earnings per ordinary share (Euro cents)

   22    (11.44   25.62      27.97   

Number of ordinary shares (in 000’s)

   22    1,478,472      1,512,012      1,544,457   

Number of diluted shares (in 000’s)

   22    1,478,472      1,524,935      1,557,503   
                     

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial information.

 

F-3


Table of Contents

Consolidated Cash Flow Statements

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
    Year ended
March 31,

2008
    Year ended
March 31,

2007
 
     €000     €000     €000  

Operating activities

      

(Loss)/profit before tax

   (180,487   438,927      451,037   

Adjustments to reconcile (loss)/profit before tax to net cash provided by operating activities

      

Depreciation

   256,117      175,949      143,503   

(Increase)/decrease in inventories

   (78   423      1,002   

(Increase)/decrease in trade receivables

   (7,613   (10,766   6,497   

Decrease/(increase) in other current assets

   73,757      (35,899   (51,386

Increase in trade payables

   3,382      2,046      27,039   

Increase in accrued expenses

   13,323      80,629      233,839   

Increase/(decrease) in other creditors

   6,619      (5,267   75,351   

Increase in maintenance provisions

   19,017      14,071      11,997   

(Gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment

   —        (12,153   (91

Loss on impairment of available-for-sale financial asset

   222,537      91,569      —     

Decrease/(increase) in interest receivable

   4,770      (985   48   

(Increase)/decrease in interest payable

   (3,457   1,235      2,671   

Retirement costs

   (265   432      588   

Share based payments

   3,757      10,925      3,935   

Income tax refunded/(paid)

   1,755      (47,234   (5,194
                  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   413,134      703,902      900,836   
                  

Investing activities

      

Capital expenditure (purchase of property, plant and equipment)

   (702,017   (937,115   (525,956

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

   314,205      150,042      495   

Purchase of equities classified as available-for-sale

   (4,225   (58,114   (344,917

Decrease/(increase) in restricted cash

   830      (33,623   (54,768

Decrease/(increase) in financial assets: cash > 3 months

   2,873      186,500      (263,847
                  

Net cash used in investing activities

   (388,334   (692,310   (1,188,993
                  

Financing activities

      

Shares purchased under share buy-back programme

   (46,015   (299,994   —     

Net proceeds from shares issued

   1,615      8,403      11,234   

Proceeds from long term borrowings

   459,000      646,392      339,409   

Repayments of long term borrowings

   (327,055   (241,963   (155,071
                  

Net cash provided by financing activities

   87,545      112,838      195,572   
                  

Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   112,345      124,430      (92,585

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

   1,470,849      1,346,419      1,439,004   
                  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   1,583,194      1,470,849      1,346,419   
                  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial information.

 

F-4


Table of Contents

Consolidated Statements of Recognised Income and Expense

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
    Year ended
March 31,

2008
    Year ended
March 31,

2007
 
     €000     €000     €000  

Net actuarial (losses)/gains from retirement benefit plans

   (7,507   4,497      1,988   

Cash flow hedge reserve-effective portion of fair value changes to derivatives

      

Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash-flow hedges

   255,829      26,768      79,025   

Net change in fair value of cash-flow hedges transferred to profit or loss

   (115,639   (129,960   (32,920
                  

Net movements into cash flow hedge reserve

   140,190      (103,192   46,105   

Net (decrease)/increase in fair value of available-for-sale asset

   (222,537   (140,495   48,926   

Impairment of available-for-sale asset written off to the income statement

   222,537      91,569      —     
                  

Net movements (out of)/into available-for-sale financial asset

   —        (48,926   48,926   
                  

Total income and expenditure recognised directly in equity

   132,683      (147,621   97,019   
                  

(Loss)/profit for the year

   (169,173   390,708      435,600   
                  

Total recognised income and expense

   (36,490   243,087      532,619   
                  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial information.

 

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Table of Contents

Notes forming part of the Consolidated Financial Statements

 

1 Basis of preparation and significant accounting policies

 

The accounting policies applied in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements for the 2009 fiscal year are set out below. These have been applied consistently for all periods presented, except as otherwise set out below.

 

Business activity

 

Ryanair Limited and its subsidiaries (“Ryanair Limited”) has operated as an international airline since commencing operations in 1985. On August 23, 1996, Ryanair Holdings Limited, a newly formed holding company, acquired the entire issued share capital of Ryanair Limited. On May 16, 1997, Ryanair Holdings Limited re-registered as a public limited company, Ryanair Holdings plc (the “Company”). Ryanair Holdings plc and its subsidiaries are hereafter together referred to as “Ryanair Holdings plc” (or “we”, “our”, “us”, “Ryanair” or the “Company”) and currently operate a low-fares airline headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. All trading activity continues to be undertaken by the group of companies headed by Ryanair Limited.

 

Statement of compliance

 

In accordance with the International Accounting Standards (“IAS”) Regulation (EC 1606 (2002)) which applies throughout the European Union (“EU”), the consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standards and International Financial Reporting Standards (collectively “IFRSs”) as adopted by the EU, which are effective for the year ended and as at March 31, 2009. In addition to complying with its legal obligation to comply with IFRSs as adopted by the EU, the consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRSs as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). The consolidated financial statements have also been prepared in accordance with the Companies Acts, 1963 to 2006.

 

Details of legislative changes and new accounting standards or amendments to accounting standards, which are not yet effective and have not been early adopted in these consolidated financial statements, and the likely impact on future financial statements are set forth below in the prospective accounting changes section.

 

Basis of preparation

 

These consolidated financial statements are presented in Euro rounded to the nearest thousand, the Euro being the functional currency of the parent entity and the majority of the group companies. They are prepared on the historical cost basis, except for derivative financial instruments and available-for-sale securities which are stated at fair value, and share-based payments, which are based on fair value determined as at the grant date of the relevant share options. Any non-current assets classified as held for sale are stated at the lower of cost and fair value less costs to sell.

 

Critical accounting policies

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. These estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, and the results of such estimates form the basis of judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ materially from these estimates. These underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. A revision to an accounting estimate is recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if these are also affected. Principal sources of estimation uncertainty have been set forth in the critical accounting policies section below. Actual results may differ from estimates.

 

The Company believes that its critical accounting policies, which are those that require management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgements, are those described in this section. These critical accounting policies, the judgements and other uncertainties affecting application of these policies and the sensitivity of reported results to changes in conditions and assumptions are factors to be considered in reviewing the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-6


Table of Contents

Available-for-sale securities

 

The Company holds certain equity securities, which are classified as available-for-sale, and are measured at fair value, less incremental direct costs, on initial recognition. Such securities are classified as available-for-sale, rather than as an investment in an associate if the Company does not have the power to exercise significant influence over the investee. Subsequent to initial recognition they are measured at fair value and changes therein, other than impairment losses, are recognised directly in equity. The fair values of available-for-sale securities are determined by reference to quoted prices at each reporting date. When an investment is de-recognised the cumulative gain or loss in equity is transferred to the income statement.

 

Such securities are considered to be impaired if there is objective evidence which indicates that there may be a negative influence on future cash flows. This includes where there is a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value below its cost. All impairment losses are recognised in the income statement and any cumulative loss in respect of an available-for-sale asset recognised previously in equity is also transferred to the income statement.

 

Long-lived assets

 

As of March 31, 2009, Ryanair had €3.6 billion of long-lived assets, virtually all of which were aircraft. In accounting for long-lived assets, Ryanair must make estimates about the expected useful lives of the assets, the expected residual values of the assets and the potential for impairment based on the fair value of the assets and the cash flows they generate.

 

In estimating the lives and expected residual values of its aircraft, Ryanair has primarily relied on its own and industry experience, recommendations from Boeing, the manufacturer of all of the Company’s aircraft, and other available marketplace information. Subsequent revisions to these estimates, which can be significant, could be caused by changes to Ryanair’s maintenance program, changes in utilisation of the aircraft, governmental regulations on aging of aircraft and changing market prices for new and used aircraft of the same or similar types. Ryanair evaluates its estimates and assumptions in each reporting period, and, when warranted, adjusts these assumptions. Generally, these adjustments are accounted for on a prospective basis, through depreciation expense.

 

Ryanair periodically evaluates its long-lived assets for impairment. Factors that would indicate potential impairment would include, but are not limited to, significant decreases in the market value of an aircraft, a significant change in an aircraft’s physical condition and operating or cash flow losses associated with the use of the aircraft. While the airline industry as a whole has experienced many of these factors from time to time, Ryanair has not yet been seriously impacted and continues to record positive cash flows from these long-lived assets. Consequently, Ryanair has not yet identified any impairments related to its existing aircraft fleet. The Company will continue to monitor its long-lived assets and the general airline operating environment.

 

The Company’s estimate of the recoverable amount of aircraft residual values is 15% of market value, determined periodically, based on actual aircraft disposals during the year, agreements to sell further aircraft in future periods and current market valuations.

 

During the 2009 fiscal year accelerated depreciation of €51.6 million (2008: €10.6 million) arose in relation to aircraft disposals in such fiscal year and an agreement to dispose of aircraft at future dates (in fiscal year 2010).

 

Heavy maintenance

 

An element of the cost of an acquired aircraft is attributed, on acquisition, to its service potential, reflecting the maintenance condition of the engines and airframe. Additionally, when Ryanair has a lease commitment to perform aircraft maintenance, a provision is made during the lease term for this obligation. Both of these elements of accounting policies involve the use of estimates in determining the quantum of both the initial maintenance asset and/or the amount of provisions to be recorded and the respective periods over which such amounts are charged to income. In making such estimates, Ryanair has primarily relied on its own and industry experience, industry regulations and recommendations from Boeing; however, these estimates can be subject to revision, depending on a number of factors, such as the timing of the planned maintenance, the ultimate utilisation of the aircraft, changes to government regulations and increases and decreases in estimated costs. Ryanair evaluates its estimates and assumptions in each reporting period and, when warranted, adjusts its assumptions, which generally impact maintenance and depreciation expense in the income statement on a prospective basis.

 

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Basis of consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of Ryanair Holdings plc and its subsidiary undertakings as of March 31, 2009. Subsidiaries are entities controlled by us. Control exists when we have the power either directly or indirectly to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefit from its activities.

 

All inter-company account balances and any unrealised income or expenses arising from intra-group transactions have been eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements.

 

The results of subsidiary undertakings acquired or disposed of in the period are included in the consolidated income statement from the date of acquisition or up to the date of disposal. Upon the acquisition of a business, fair values are attributed to the separable net assets acquired.

 

Business combinations

 

The purchase method of accounting is employed in accounting for the acquisition of businesses. In accordance with IFRS 3, the cost of a business combination is measured as the aggregate of the fair values at the date of exchange of assets given and liabilities incurred or assumed in exchange for control, together with any directly attributable expenses. The assets and liabilities and contingent liabilities of the acquired entity are measured at their fair values at the date of acquisition. When the initial accounting for a business combination is determined provisionally, any adjustments to the provisional values allocated are made within 12 months of the acquisition date and are effected prospectively from that date.

 

Foreign currency translation

 

Items included in the financial statements of each of the group entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (the “functional currency”). The consolidated financial statements are presented in Euro, which is the functional currency of the majority of the group entities.

 

Transactions arising in foreign currencies are translated into the respective functional currencies at the rates of exchange in effect at the dates of the transactions. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are re-translated at the rate of exchange prevailing at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated to Euro at foreign exchange rates in effect at the dates the transactions were effected. Foreign currency differences arising on retranslation are recognised in profit and loss, except for differences arising on qualifying cash-flow hedges, which are recognised directly in equity.

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and provisions for impairments, if any. Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. Cost may also include transfers from equity of any gain or loss on qualifying cash-flow hedges of foreign currency purchases of property, plant and equipment. Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost, less estimated residual value, of assets on a straight-line basis over their expected useful lives at the following annual rates:

 

     Rate of
Depreciation

Plant and equipment

   20-33.3%

Fixtures and fittings

   20%

Motor vehicles

   33.3%

Buildings

   5%

 

Aircraft are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives to estimated residual values. The estimates of useful lives and residual values at year-end are:

 

Aircraft Type

 

Number of Aircraft
at March 31, 2009

 

Useful Life

 

Residual Value

Boeing 737-800s

  138(a)   23 years from date of manufacture   15% of market value, determined periodically

 

(a) The Company operated 181 aircraft as of March 31, 2009, of which 43 were leased.

 

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The Company’s estimate of the recoverable amount of aircraft residual values is 15% of market value, determined periodically, based on actual aircraft disposals during the year, agreements to sell further aircraft in future periods and current market valuations.

 

An element of the cost of an acquired aircraft is attributed on acquisition to its service potential, reflecting the maintenance condition of its engines and airframe. This cost, which can equate to a substantial element of the total aircraft cost, is amortised over the shorter of the period to the next maintenance check (usually between 8 and 12 years for Boeing 737-800 aircraft) or the remaining life of the aircraft. The costs of subsequent major airframe and engine maintenance checks are capitalised and amortised over the shorter of the period to the next check or the remaining life of the aircraft.

 

Advance and option payments made in respect of aircraft purchase commitments and options to acquire aircraft are recorded at cost and separately disclosed within property, plant and equipment. On acquisition of the related aircraft, these payments are included as part of the cost of aircraft and are depreciated from that date.

 

Rotable spare parts held by the Company are classified as property, plant and equipment if they are expected to be used over more than one period and are accounted for and depreciated in the same manner as the related aircraft.

 

Gains and losses on disposal of items of property, plant and equipment are determined by comparing the proceeds from disposal with the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment, and are recognised on a net basis within other income in profit and loss.

 

During the 2009 fiscal year accelerated depreciation of €51.6 million (2008: €10.6 million) arose in relation to aircraft disposals in such fiscal year and an agreement to dispose of aircraft at future dates (in fiscal year 2010).

 

Aircraft maintenance costs

 

The accounting for the cost of providing major airframe and certain engine maintenance checks for owned aircraft is described in the accounting policy for property, plant and equipment.

 

With respect to the Company’s operating lease agreements, where the Company has a commitment to maintain the aircraft, provision is made during the lease term for the obligation based on the present value of estimated future costs of major airframe and certain engine maintenance checks by making appropriate charges to the income statement, calculated by reference to the number of hours or cycles operated during the year.

 

All other maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

 

Intangible assets—landing rights

 

Intangible assets acquired are recognised to the extent it is considered probable that expected future benefits will flow to the Company and the associated costs can be measured reliably. Landing rights acquired as part of a business combination are capitalised at fair value at that date and are not amortised, where those rights are considered to be indefinite. The carrying values of those rights are reviewed for impairment at each reporting date and are subject to impairment testing when events or changes in circumstances indicate that carrying values may not be recoverable. No impairment to the carrying values of the Company’s intangible assets has been recorded to date.

 

Other financial assets

 

Other financial assets (other than available-for-sale financial assets) comprise cash deposits of greater than three months’ maturity. All amounts are categorised as loans and receivables and are carried initially at fair value and then subsequently at amortised cost, using the effective interest method in the balance sheet.

 

Derivative financial instruments

 

Ryanair is exposed to market risks relating to fluctuations in commodity prices, interest rates and currency exchange rates. The objective of financial risk management at Ryanair is to minimise the impact of commodity price, interest rate and foreign exchange rate fluctuations on the Company’s earnings, cash flows and equity.

 

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To manage these risks, Ryanair uses various derivative financial instruments, including interest rate swaps, foreign currency forward contracts and commodity contracts. These derivative financial instruments are generally held to maturity. The Company enters into these arrangements with the goal of hedging its operational and balance sheet risk. However, Ryanair’s exposure to commodity price, interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations cannot be neutralised completely.

 

Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition, derivative financial instruments continue to be re-measured to fair value, and changes therein are accounted for as described below.

 

The fair value of interest rate swaps is computed by discounting the projected cash flows on the Company’s swap arrangements to present value. The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts and commodity contracts is determined based on the present value of the quoted forward price. Recognition of any resultant gain or loss depends on the nature of the item being hedged.

 

Where a derivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of the variability in cash flows of a recognised asset or liability or a highly probable forecasted transaction, the effective part of any gain or loss on the derivative financial instrument is recognised directly in equity (in the cash flow hedging reserve). When the hedged forecasted transaction results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or liability, the cumulative gain or loss is removed from equity and included in the initial measurement of that asset or liability. Otherwise the cumulative gain or loss is removed from equity and recognised in the income statement at the same time as the hedged transaction. The ineffective part of any hedging transaction and the gain or loss thereon is recognised in the income statement immediately.

 

When a hedging instrument or hedge relationship is terminated but the underlying hedged transaction is still expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss at that point remains in equity and is recognised in accordance with the above policy when the transaction occurs. If the hedged transaction is no longer expected to take place, the cumulative unrealised gain or loss recognised in equity is recognised in the income statement immediately.

 

Where a derivative financial instrument hedges the changes in fair value of a recognised asset or liability or an unrecognised firm commitment, any gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised in the income statement. The hedged item also is stated at fair value in respect of the risk being hedged, with any gain or loss also being recognised in the income statement.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is based on invoiced price on an average basis for all stock categories. Net realisable value is calculated as the estimated selling price arising in the ordinary course of business, net of estimated selling costs.

 

Trade and other receivables and payables

 

Trade and other receivables and payables are stated at cost, less impairment losses, which approximates fair value given the short-dated nature of these assets and liabilities.

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash represents cash held at banks and available on demand, and is categorised as “loans and receivables.”

 

Cash equivalents are current asset investments (other than cash) that are readily convertible into known amounts of cash, typically cash deposits of more than one day but less than three months. Deposits with maturities greater than three months are recognised as short-term investments, are categorised as loans and receivables and are carried initially at fair value and then subsequently at amortised cost, using the effective-interest method.

 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

 

All loans and borrowings are initially recorded at fair value, being the fair value of the consideration received, net of attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, non-current interest-bearing loans are measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest yield methodology.

 

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Leases

 

Leases under which the Company assumes substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Assets held under finance leases are capitalised in the balance sheet, at an amount equal to the lower of their fair value and the present value of the minimum lease payments, and are depreciated over their estimated useful lives. The present values of the future lease payments are recorded as obligations under finance leases and the interest element of a lease obligation is charged to the income statement over the period of the lease in proportion to the balances outstanding.

 

Other leases are operating leases and the associated leased assets are not recognised on the Company’s balance sheet. Expenditure arising under operating leases is charged to the income statement as incurred. The Company also enters into sale-and-leaseback transactions whereby it sells the rights to acquire an aircraft to an external party and subsequently leases the aircraft back, by way of an operating lease. Any profit or loss on the disposal where the price achieved is not considered to be at fair value is spread over the period during which the asset is expected to be used. The profit or loss amount deferred is included within “other creditors” and divided into components of greater or less than one year.

 

Provisions and contingencies

 

A provision is recognised in the balance sheet when there is a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefit will be required to settle the obligation. If the effect is material, provisions are determined by discounting the expected future outflow at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and, when appropriate, the risks specific to the liability.

 

The Company assesses the likelihood of any adverse outcomes to contingencies, including legal matters, as well as probable losses. We record provisions for such contingencies when it is probable that a liability will be incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. A contingent liability is disclosed where the existence of the obligation will only be confirmed by future events, or where the amount of the obligation cannot be measured with reasonable reliability. Provisions are re-measured at each balance sheet date based on the best estimate of the settlement amount.

 

In relation to legal matters, we develop estimates in consultation with outside legal counsel handling our defence in these matters, using the current facts and circumstances known to us. The factors that we consider in developing our legal provisions include the merits and jurisdiction of the litigation, the nature and number of other similar current and past litigation cases, the nature of the subject matter of the litigation, the likelihood of settlement and current state of settlement discussions, if any.

 

Segment reporting

 

A segment is a distinguishable component of the Company that is engaged either in providing products or services (business segment), or in providing products or services within a particular economic environment (geographical segment), which is subject to risks and returns different to those of other segments.

 

The Company’s primary reporting segments comprise geographic segments relating to the origin of its revenues, as the Company only operates in one business segment, this being the provision of a low fares scheduled airline service across a European route network.

 

Income statement classification and presentation

 

Individual income statement captions have been presented on the face of the income statement, together with additional line items, headings and sub-totals, where it is determined that such presentation is relevant to an understanding of our financial performance, in accordance with IAS 1, “Presentation of Financial Statements”.

 

Expenses are classified and presented in accordance with the nature-of-expenses method. We disclose separately on the face of the income statement, within other income and expense, losses on the impairment of available-for-sale financial assets and gains or losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment. The nature of the Company’s available-for-sale asset is that of a financial investment; accordingly any impairment of the investment is categorised as finance expense and included in other income/(expense) as a separate line item. The presentation of gains or losses on the disposal of property, plant and equipment within other income/(expense) accords with industry practice.

 

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Revenues

 

Scheduled revenues comprise the invoiced value of airline and other services, net of government taxes. Revenue from the sale of flight seats is recognised in the period in which the service is provided. Unearned revenue represents flight seats sold but not yet flown and is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities. It is released to the income statement as passengers fly. Unused tickets are recognised as revenue on a systematic basis. Miscellaneous fees charged for any changes to flight tickets are recognised in revenue immediately.

 

Ancillary revenues are recognised in the income statement in the period the ancillary services are provided.

 

Share-based payments

 

The Company engages in equity-settled, share-based payment transactions in respect of services received from certain of its employees. The fair value of the services received is measured by reference to the fair value of the share options on the date of the grant. The grant measurement date is the date that a shared understanding of the terms of the award is established between the Company and the employee. The cost of the employee services received in respect of the share options granted is recognised in the income statement over the period that the services are received, which is the vesting period, with a corresponding increase in equity. To the extent that service is provided prior to the grant measurement date, the fair value of the share options is initially estimated and re-measured at each balance sheet date until the grant measurement date is achieved. The fair value of the options granted is determined using a binomial lattice option-pricing model, which takes into account the exercise price of the option, the current share price, the risk-free interest rate, the expected volatility of the Ryanair Holdings plc share price over the life of the option and other relevant factors. Non-market vesting conditions are taken into account by adjusting the number of shares or share options included in the measurement of the cost of employee services so that ultimately, the amount recognised in the income statement reflects the number of vested shares or share options.

 

On transitioning to IFRS for the first time in the 2006 fiscal year the Company made use of the transition provisions in IFRS 1 for share-based payments by only applying the fair value calculation to share option grants that were made after November 7, 2002, but which had not vested by January 1, 2005.

 

Pensions and other post-retirement obligations

 

The Company provides certain employees with post-retirement benefits in the form of pensions. The Company operates a number of defined contribution and defined benefit pension schemes.

 

Costs arising in respect of the Company’s defined contribution pension schemes (where fixed contributions are paid into the scheme and there is no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts) are charged to the income statement in the period in which they are incurred. Any contributions unpaid at the balance sheet date are included as a liability.

 

A defined benefit plan is a post-employment benefit plan other than a defined-contribution plan. The liabilities and costs associated with the Company’s defined benefit pension schemes are assessed on the basis of the projected unit credit method by professionally qualified actuaries and are arrived at using actuarial assumptions based on market expectations at the balance sheet date. The discount rates employed in determining the present value of each scheme’s liabilities are determined by reference to market yields at the balance sheet date of high quality corporate bonds in the same currency and term that is consistent with those of the associated pension obligations. The net surplus or deficit arising on the Company’s defined-benefit schemes is shown within non-current assets or liabilities on the balance sheet. The deferred tax impact of any such amount is disclosed separately within deferred tax.

 

The Company separately recognises the operating and financing costs of defined-benefit pensions in the income statement. IFRS permits a number of options for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses. The Company has opted to recognise all actuarial gains and losses within equity.

 

Income taxes including deferred income taxes

 

Income tax on the profit or loss for a year comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognised in the income statement except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity (such as certain derivative financial instruments, available-for-sale assets, pensions and other post-retirement obligations). Current tax payable on taxable profits is recognised as an expense in the period in which the profits arise using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

 

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Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the balance sheet liability method, on temporary differences arising from the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying accounts in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates and legislation enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date and expected to apply when the temporary differences reverse.

 

The following temporary differences are not provided for: (i) the initial recognition of assets and liabilities that effect neither accounting nor taxable profit and (ii) differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that it is probable they will not reverse in the future.

 

A deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which temporary differences can be utilised. The carrying amounts of deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that a sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be realised.

 

Share capital

 

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issuance of ordinary shares and share options are recognised as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects. When share capital recognised as equity is repurchased, the amount of consideration paid, which includes any directly attributable costs, net of any tax effects, is recognised as a deduction from equity. Repurchased shares are classified as treasury shares and are presented as a deduction from total equity, until they are cancelled.

 

Prospective accounting changes, new standards and interpretations not yet adopted

 

The following legislative changes and new accounting standards or amendments to accounting standards, which are not yet effective and have not been adopted in these consolidated financial statements, will impact the Company’s financial reporting in future periods. To the extent applicable, they will be adopted in future consolidated financial statements.

 

   

IFRS 3 (Revised), “Business Combinations” (together with Amended IAS 27, “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements”) (effective for new acquisitions occurring in financial years beginning on or after July 1, 2009). These standards deals with how an acquirer recognises, measures, and discloses in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. The objective is to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. The impact on the Company will be dependent on the nature of any future acquisitions.

 

   

IFRS 8, “Operating Segments” was issued in November 2006 replacing IAS 14, “Segmental Reporting” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009). IFRS 8 changes the basis for identifying operating segments. It requires identification of operating segments on the basis of internal reports that are regularly reviewed by the entity’s chief operating decision-maker in order to allocate resources to the segments and assess their performance. IAS 14 required identification of two sets of segments—one based on related products and services, and the other on geographical areas. IFRS 8 instead requires additional disclosures around identifying segments and their products and services. The introduction of this standard is likely to impact the Company’s segmental reporting although this impact is not expected to be significant.

 

   

IAS 23, “Borrowing Costs” (revised March 2007 and effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009). This standard requires an entity to capitalise borrowing costs, which are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset, as part of the cost of that asset. The impact on the Company’s reporting is not expected to be significant.

 

   

Amendment to IFRS 2, “Share-based payments: vesting conditions and cancellations” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009). This amendment clarifies the accounting treatment of cancellations and vesting conditions. The introduction of this amendment will impact the Company’s reporting although this impact is not expected to be significant.

 

   

Amendment to IAS 1, “Presentation of Financial Statements—a revised presentation” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009). This amendment sets overall requirements for the presentation of financial statements, guidelines for their structure and minimum requirements for their content. IAS 1 will impact the presentation of the financial statements of the Company, however, this impact is not expected to be significant.

 

   

Amendment to IAS 27, “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009). The objective of this amendment (already discussed above in the

 

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specific context of acquisitions) is to enhance the relevance, reliability and comparability of the information that a parent entity provides in its separate financial statements and in its consolidated financial statements for a group of entities under its control. The introduction of this amendment will impact the Company’s reporting although this impact is not expected to be significant.

 

   

Amendment to IAS 32, “Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations arising on Liquidation” and IAS 1—(effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009). This amendment changes the classification from liabilities to equity of (a) some puttable financial instruments and (b) some financial instruments that impose on the entity an obligation to deliver to another party a pro rata share of the net assets of the entity only on liquidation. This amendment is not expected to impact the Company.

 

   

Amendments to IAS 39, “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement: Eligible Hedged Items” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009) clarifies how existing principles underlying hedge accounting should be applied in two particular situations: (a) in the designation of a one-sided risk in a hedged item; and (b) in the designation of inflation in a financial hedged item. The introduction of this amendment is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

   

IFRIC 15, “Agreements for the Construction of Real Estate” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009). This interpretation provides guidance on how to determine whether an agreement for the construction of real estate is within the scope of IAS 11, “Construction Contracts,” or IAS 18, “Revenue,” and when revenue from the construction should be recognised. The introduction of this interpretation will not have an impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

   

IFRIC 16, “Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after October 1, 2008). The IFRIC provides guidance on accounting for the hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation in an entity’s consolidated financial statements, where an entity wishes to qualify for hedge accounting in accordance with IAS 39. It does not apply to other types of hedge accounting. This interpretation will not have an impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

   

IFRIC 17, “Distributions of Non-cash Assets to Owners” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009), which excludes common control transactions from its scope, clarifies that a dividend payable should be recognised when the dividend is appropriately authorised and is no longer at the discretion of the entity; an entity should measure the dividend payable at the fair value of the net assets to be distributed; and an entity should recognise the difference between the dividend paid and the carrying amount of the net assets that are being distributed as a profit/loss in the income statement. This interpretation will not have an impact on the Company’s reporting.

 

   

IFRIC 18, “Transfer of Assets from Customers” (effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009). IFRIC 18 applies to agreements in which an entity receives from a customer an item of property, plant, and equipment that the entity must then use either to connect the customer to a network or to provide the customer with ongoing access to a supply of goods or services. When the item of property, plant and equipment transferred to a customer meets the definition of an asset from the perspective of the recipient, the recipient must recognise the asset in its financial statements. If the customer continues to control the transferred item, the asset definition would not be met even if ownership of the asset is transferred to the utility or other recipient entity. This interpretation is not expected to have an impact on the Company’s reporting.

 

   

On May 22, 2008 the IASB published the “Improvements to International Financial Reporting Standards 2008,” which contains 24 amendments to IFRSs that result in accounting changes for presentation, recognition or measurement purposes and 11 terminology or editorial amendments that will have only minimal or no effects on accounting. All amendments are effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after January 1, 2009, except for the amendment to IFRS 5, “Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations—plans to sell a controlling interest in a subsidiary,” which is effective for fiscal periods beginning on or after July 1, 2009. None of these amendments are expected to have a significant impact on Ryanair’s financial statements

 

   

On April 16, 2009 the IASB published its second annual improvements project, “Improvements to International Financial Reporting Standards 2009,” which comprises 15 amendments to 12 standards, namely IFRS 2, 5 and 8; IAS 1, 7, 17, 18, 36, 38, 39; and IFRIC 9 and 16. Effective dates are dealt with on a standard-by-standard basis. None of these amendments are expected to have a significant impact on Ryanair’s financial statements.

 

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Reclassifications

 

Certain items in the consolidated financial statements for prior periods have been reclassified to conform to current classifications. The Company has undertaken reclassifications in its comparative balance sheet and note disclosures as at and for the 2008 fiscal year as follows:

 

  (a) A reclassification of €2.0 million was effected from “other creditors” to “provisions,” both within non-current liabilities, reflecting the present value of the Company’s net pension obligations.

 

  (b) A reclassification of €23.1 million was effected from the capital redemption reserve fund to share premium, both within shareholders’ equity, related to the share buy-back, such that the capital redemption reserve reflects the nominal value (rather than the nominal value plus share premium as had previously been reported) of the shares that were acquired and cancelled in the period; and

 

  (c) The key management personnel compensation disclosure included in Note 26 to the financial statements has been amended to include €2.3 million associated with share-based compensation expense attributable to key management personnel and the executive director’s fees and emoluments of €1.2 million previously set out in Note 19 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

2 Property, plant and equipment

 

     Aircraft     Hangar and
Buildings
   Plant and
Equipment
    Fixtures
and

Fittings
   Motor
Vehicles
   Total  
     €000     €000    €000     €000    €000    €000  

(i) Year ended March 31, 2009

               

Cost

               

At March 31, 2008

   4,149,712      25,886    11,875      16,835    1,866    4,206,174   

Additions in year

   637,023      12,615    3,425      3,364    221    656,648   

Disposals in year

   (566,213   —      (83   —      —      (566,296
                                 

At March 31, 2009

   4,220,522      38,501    15,217      20,199    2,087    4,296,526   
                                 

Depreciation

               

At March 31, 2008

   597,202      5,482    7,696      12,370    1,298    624,048   

Charge for year

   249,500      1,552    2,221      2,433    411    256,117   

Eliminated on disposals

   (228,417   —      (46   —      —      (228,463
                                 

At March 31, 2009

   618,285      7,034    9,871      14,803    1,709    651,702   
                                 

Net book value

               

At March 31, 2009

   3,602,237      31,467    5,346      5,396    378    3,644,824   
                                 

(ii) Year ended March 31, 2008

               

Cost

               

At March 31, 2007

   3,362,360      23,037    9,954      13,247    1,609    3,410,207   

Additions in year

   954,291      2,849    1,921      3,588    257    962,906   

Disposals in year

   (166,939   —      —        —      —      (166,939
                                 

At March 31, 2008

   4,149,712      25,886    11,875      16,835    1,866    4,206,174   
                                 

Depreciation

               

At March 31, 2007

   486,682      4,359    5,846      10,910    905    508,702   

Charge for year

   171,123      1,123    1,850      1,460    393    175,949   

Eliminated on disposals

   (60,603   —      —        —      —      (60,603
                                 

At March 31, 2008

   597,202      5,482    7,696      12,370    1,298    624,048   
                                 

Net book value

               

At March 31, 2008

   3,552,510      20,404    4,179      4,465    568    3,582,126   
                                 

 

At March 31, 2009, aircraft with a net book value of €3,163.3 million (March 31, 2008: €3,061.5 million) were mortgaged to lenders as security for loans. Under the security arrangements for the Company’s new Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft, the Company does not hold legal title to those aircraft while these loan amounts remain outstanding.

 

At March 31, 2009, the cost and net book value of aircraft includes €405.3 million (March 31, 2008: €469.8 million) in respect of advance payments and options on aircraft. This amount is not depreciated. The cost and net

 

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book value also includes capitalised aircraft maintenance, aircraft simulators and the stock of rotable spare parts. Aircraft assets also include the fair value of certain foreign currency for firm commitments to buy aircraft, which are permitted to be included within the Company’s balance sheet for fair-value hedges undertaken in respect of these commitments, amounting to €0.7 million (March 31, 2008: €27.2 million).

 

The net book value of assets held under finance leases at March 31, 2009 and 2008 was €435.5 million and €316.0 million respectively.

 

There were 16 (2008: six) Boeing 737-800 aircraft disposed of during the year, and there is an agreement to dispose of a further three aircraft at future dates in 2010. The sale proceeds from the 16 aircraft sold and deposits received in respect of future aircraft disposals in aggregate amounted to €314.2 million, (2008: €150.0 million).

 

During the 2009 fiscal year accelerated depreciation of €51.6 million (2008: €10.6 million) arose in relation to aircraft disposals in financial year 2009 and the agreement to dispose of aircraft at future dates in financial year 2010.

 

3 Intangible assets

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Landing rights

   46,841    46,841
         

 

Landing slots were acquired with the acquisition of Buzz Stansted Limited in April 2003. As these landing slots have no expiry date and are expected to be used in perpetuity, they are considered to be of indefinite life and accordingly are not amortised. The Company also considers that there has been no impairment of the value of these rights to date. The recoverable amount of these rights has been determined on a value-in-use basis, using discounted cash-flow projections for a twenty-year period for each route that has an individual landing right. The calculation of value-in-use is most sensitive to the operating margin and discount rate assumptions. Operating margins are based on the existing margins generated from these routes and adjusted for any known trading conditions. The trading environment is subject to both regulatory and competitive pressures that can have a material effect on the operating performance of the business. Foreseeable events, however, are unlikely to result in a change of projections of a significant nature so as to result in the landing rights’ carrying amounts exceeding their recoverable amounts. These projections have been discounted using a rate that reflects management’s estimate of the long-term pre-tax return on capital employed for its scheduled airline business, estimated to be 3.48% for 2009 and 5.4% for 2008.

 

4 Available-for-sale financial assets

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Investment in Aer Lingus

   93,150    311,462
         

 

During the 2009 fiscal year the Company acquired a further stake in Aer Lingus plc., an Irish airline, at a cost of €4.2 million (2008: €58.1 million), bringing Ryanair’s total holding in Aer Lingus to 29.8% (2008: 29.3%). The balance sheet value of €93.2 million (2008: €311.5 million) reflects the market value of this investment as at March 31, 2009. In accordance with the Company’s accounting policy, these assets are held at fair value with a corresponding adjustment to equity following initial acquisition. All impairment losses are recognised in the income statement and any cumulative loss previously recognised in equity is transferred to the income statement once an impairment is considered to have occurred. During the year, the Company recorded an impairment charge of €222.5 million (2008: €91.6 million) on its Aer Lingus shareholding reflecting the decline in the Aer Lingus share price. This investment is classified as available-for-sale, rather than as an investment in an associate, because the Company does not have the power to exercise any influence over the entity.

 

The Company’s determination that it does not have any influence over Aer Lingus has been based on the following factors, in particular:

 

  (i) Ryanair does not have any representation on the Aer Lingus board of directors, nor does it have a right to appoint a director;

 

  (ii) Ryanair does not participate in Aer Lingus’ policy-making decisions, nor does it have a right to participate in such policy-making decisions;

 

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  (iii) There are no material transactions between Ryanair and Aer Lingus, there is no interchange of personnel between the two companies and there is no sharing of technical information between the companies;

 

  (iv) Aer Lingus and its principal shareholders (Irish government: 25.1%; Employee Share Ownership Plan: 14.2%) have openly opposed Ryanair’s investment or participation in the company;

 

  (v) On August 13, 2007 and September 4, 2007, Aer Lingus refused Ryanair’s attempt to assert its statutory right to requisition a general meeting (a legal right of any 10% shareholder under Irish law). The Aer Lingus Board of Directors refused to accede to these requests (by letters dated August 31, 2007 and September 17, 2007); and

 

  (vi) The European Commission has formally found that Ryanair’s shareholding in Aer Lingus does not grant Ryanair “de jure or de facto control of Aer Lingus” and that “Ryanair’s rights as a minority shareholder…are associated exclusively to rights related to the protection of minority shareholders” (Commission Decision Case No. COMP/M.4439 dated 11th October 2007).

 

On December 1, 2008 Ryanair made a second offer to acquire 70.2% of the ordinary shares of Aer Lingus plc that it does not already own. However, the Company was unable to secure the shareholders’ support and accordingly on January 28, 2009 withdrew its offer for Aer Lingus.

 

5. Derivative financial instruments

 

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has responsibility for monitoring the treasury policies and objectives of the Company, which include controls over the procedures used to manage the main financial risks arising from the Company’s operations. Such risks comprise commodity price, foreign exchange and interest rate risks. The Company uses financial instruments to manage exposures arising from these risks. These instruments include borrowings, cash deposits and derivatives (principally jet fuel derivatives, interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts). It is the Company’s policy that no speculative trading in financial instruments takes place.

 

The Company’s historical fuel risk management policy has been to hedge between 70% and 90% of the forecast rolling annual volumes required to ensure that the future cost per gallon of fuel is locked in. This policy was adopted to prevent the Company being exposed, in the short term, to adverse movements in global jet fuel prices. However, when deemed to be in the best interests of the Company, it may deviate from this policy. At March 31, 2009, the Company had hedged approximately 75% of its fuel exposure for the year ending March 31, 2010. In the prior financial year, due to fundamental changes in the global energy markets, the Company had adopted a more selective approach to fuel hedging, with approximately 2% of its fuel exposure hedged for the 2009 fiscal year at March 31, 2008.

 

Foreign currency risk in relation to the Company’s trading operations largely arises in relation to non-Euro currencies. These currencies are primarily U.K. pound sterling and the U.S. dollar. The Company manages this risk by matching sterling revenues against sterling costs. Surplus sterling revenues are sometimes used to fund forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge U.S. dollar currency exposures that arise in relation to fuel, maintenance, aviation insurance, and capital expenditure costs and excess pounds sterling are converted into Euro. Additionally, the Company swaps Euro for U.S. dollars using forward currency contracts to cover any expected dollar outflows for these costs.

 

The Company’s objective for interest rate risk management is to reduce interest-rate risk through a combination of financial instruments, which lock in interest rates on debt and by matching a proportion of floating rate assets with floating rate liabilities. In addition, the Company aims to achieve the best available return on investments of surplus cash—subject to credit risk and liquidity constraints. Credit risk is managed by limiting the aggregate amount and duration of exposure to any one counterparty based on third-party market-based ratings. In line with the above interest rate risk management strategy, the Company has entered into a series of interest rate swaps to hedge against fluctuations in interest rates for certain floating rate financial arrangements and certain other obligations. The Company has also entered into floating rate financing for certain aircraft, which is matched with floating rate deposits. Additionally, certain cash deposits have been set aside as collateral to mitigate certain counterparty risk of fluctuations on certain derivative and other financing arrangements (restricted cash). At March 31, 2009, such restricted cash amounted to €291.6 million (March 31, 2008: €288.0 million). Additional numerical information on these swaps and on other derivatives held by the Company is set out below and in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

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The Company utilises a range of derivatives designed to mitigate these risks. All of the above derivatives have been accounted for at fair value in the Company’s balance sheet and have been utilised to hedge against these particular risks arising in the normal course of the Company’s business. All have been designated as hedges for the purposes of IAS 39 and are fully set out below.

 

Derivative financial instruments, all of which have been recognised at fair value in the Company’s balance sheet, are analysed as follows:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Current assets

    

Gains on fair-value hedging instruments—maturing within one year

   664      —     

Gains on cash-flow hedging instruments—maturing within one year

   129,298      10,228   
            
   129,962      10,228   
            

Non-current assets

    

Gains on cash flow hedging instruments—maturing after one year

   59,970      —     
            
   59,970      —     
            

Total derivative assets

   189,932      10,228   
            

Current liabilities

    

Losses on fair value hedging instruments—maturing within one year

   —        (44,380

Losses on cash flow hedging instruments—maturing within one year

   (137,439   (97,331
            
   (137,439   (141,711
            

Non-current liabilities

    

Losses on fair value hedging instruments—maturing after one year

   —        (324

Losses on cash flow hedging instruments—maturing after one year

   (54,074   (75,361
            
   (54,074   (75,685
            

Total derivative liabilities

   (191,513   (217,396
            

Net derivative financial instrument position at year-end

   (1,581   (207,168
            

 

All of the above gains and losses were unrealised at the period-end.

 

The gains/(losses) on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk for fair-value hedges of €0.7 million associated with foreign currency on aircraft firm commitments (2008: €27.2 million included within current liabilities of €44.4 million) are matched by the gains/(losses) recognised in relation to the fair value of hedging instruments of the same amount in the above table, due to the effectiveness of the Company’s hedge arrangements. The gains/(losses) on the aircraft firm commitments are recognised within property, plant and equipment as disclosed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

The table above includes the following derivative arrangements:

 

     Fair value
2009
    Fair value
2008
 
     €000     €000  

Interest rate swaps(a)

    

Less than one year

   (30,730   (10,492

Between one and five years

   (49,833   (38,330

After five years

   (4,240   (10,705
            
   (84,803   (59,527
            

Foreign currency forward contracts(a)

    

Less than one year

   129,962      (127,006

Between one and five years

   59,970      (26,379

After five years

   —        (271
            
   189,932      (153,656
            

Commodity forward contracts

    

Less than one year

   (106,710   6,015   
            
   (106,710   6,015   
            

Net derivative position at year end

   (1,581   (207,168
            

 

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(a) Additional information in relation to the above interest rate swaps and forward currency contracts (i.e. notional value and weighted average interest rates) can be found in Note 11 to the financial statements.

 

Interest rate swaps are primarily used to convert a portion of the Company’s floating rate exposures on borrowings and operating leases into fixed rate exposures and are set so as to match exactly the critical terms of the underlying debt or lease being hedged (i.e. notional principal, interest rate settings, re-pricing dates). These are all classified as cash-flow hedges of the forecasted variable interest payments and rentals due on the Company’s underlying debt and operating leases and have been determined to be highly effective in achieving offsetting cash flows. Accordingly, no ineffectiveness has been recorded in the income statement relating to these hedges in the current and preceding years.

 

Foreign currency forward contracts are utilised in a number of ways: forecast U.K. pounds sterling and Euro revenue receipts are converted into U.S. dollars to hedge against forecasted U.S. dollar payments principally for jet fuel, insurance, capital expenditure and other aircraft related costs. These are classified as either cash-flow or fair-value hedges of forecasted and committed U.S. dollar payments and have been determined to be highly effective in offsetting variability in future cash flows and fair values arising from the fluctuation in the U.S. dollar to pounds sterling and Euro exchange rates for the forecast and committed U.S. dollar purchases. Because the timing of anticipated payments and the settlement of the related derivatives is very closely coordinated, no ineffectiveness has been recorded for these foreign currency forward contracts in the current or preceding years (the underlying hedged items and hedging instruments have been consistently closely matched).

 

The Company also utilises jet fuel forward contracts to manage exposure to jet fuel prices. These are used to hedge the Company’s forecasted fuel purchases, and are arranged so as to match as closely as possible against forecasted fuel delivery and payment requirements. These are classified as cash-flow hedges of forecast fuel payments and have been determined to be highly effective in offsetting variability in future cash flows arising from fluctuations in jet fuel prices. No ineffectiveness has been recorded on these arrangements in the current or preceding years.

 

The following table indicates the periods in which cash flows associated with derivatives that are designated as cash-flow hedges are expected to occur:

 

     Expected
Cash flows
    2010     2011     2012     2013     Thereafter  
     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000  

At March 31, 2009

            

Interest rate swaps

   (84,803   (30,730   (27,606   (11,919   (7,724   (6,824

U.S. dollar currency forward contracts

   189,268      129,298      38,608      21,187      92      83   

Commodity forward contracts

   (106,710   (106,710   —        —        —        —     
                                    
   (2,245   (8,142   11,002      9,268      (7,632   (6,741
                                    

 

     Expected
Cash flows
    2009     2010     2011     2012     Thereafter  
     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000  

At March 31, 2008

            

Interest rate swaps

   (59,527   (10,492   (15,076   (12,342   (6,623   (14,994

U.S. dollar currency forward contracts

   (108,952   (82,303   (20,437   (4,468   (1,190   (554

Commodity forward contracts

   6,015      6,015      —        —        —        —     
                                    
   (162,464   (86,780   (35,513   (16,810   (7,813   (15,548
                                    

 

The following table indicates the amounts that were removed from equity and included in the income statement, analysed by income statement category, in respect of cash-flow hedges realised during the year:

 

     2009     2008     2007  
     €000     €000     €000  

Commodity forward contracts

      

Recognised in fuel and oil operating expenses, net of tax

   (94,699   144,271      (58,441

Interest rate swaps

      

Recognised in finance expense, net of tax

   (10,510   (13,862   (20,437

Foreign currency forward contracts

      

Recognised in fuel and oil operating expenses, net of tax

   (10,430   (260,369   45,958   
                  
   (115,639   (129,960   (32,920
                  

 

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6 Inventories

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Consumables

   2,075    1,997
         

 

In the view of the directors, there are no material differences between the replacement cost of inventories and the balance sheet amounts.

 

7 Other assets

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Prepayments

   67,185    121,555

Interest receivable

   5,244    10,014

Refundable deposits

   15,801    34,104

Value Added Tax recoverable

   2,823    3,907
         
   91,053    169,580
         

 

All amounts fall due within one year.

 

8 Trade receivables

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Trade receivables

   41,928      34,315   

Provision for impairment

   (137   (137
            
   41,791      34,178   
            

 

All amounts fall due within one year.

 

The movement in the provision for trade receivable impairments is as follows:

 

     Balance at
beginning
of year
   Additions
charged to
expenses
   Write-offs     Balance at
end of year
     €000    €000    €000     €000

Year ended March 31, 2009

   137    —      —        137

Year ended March 31, 2008

   188    —      (51   137
                    

 

No customers accounted for more than 10% of our accounts receivable at March 31, 2009. The following customers accounted for more than 10% of our accounts receivable at March 31, 2008:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009    2008  
     €000    €000  

Travelscape

   —      16
           

 

At March 31, 2009 €0.7 million (2008: €0.7 million) of our total accounts receivable balance was past due, of which €0.1 million (2008: €0.1 million) was impaired and provided for and €0.6 million (2008: €0.6 million) was considered past due but not impaired.

 

9 Restricted cash

 

Restricted cash consists of €291.6 million (2008: €288.4 million) placed on deposit as collateral for certain derivative financial instruments and other financing arrangements entered into by the Company. In the prior year

 

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ended March 31, 2008 a further €4.0 million was held in escrow relating to an ongoing legal proceeding. This amount was released from escrow during the current year upon the successful outcome of the legal proceeding. See details of this matter in Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

10 Accrued expenses and other liabilities

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Accruals

   226,322    283,374

Taxation

   231,877    230,970

Unearned revenue

   447,516    405,005
         
   905,715    919,349
         

 

Taxation above comprises:

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

PAYE (payroll taxes)

   3,923    5,313

Other tax (principally air passenger duty)

   227,954    225,657
         
   231,877    230,970
         

 

11 Financial instruments and financial risk management

 

The Company utilises financial instruments to reduce exposures to market risks throughout its business. Borrowings, cash and cash equivalents and liquid investments are used to finance the Company’s operations. Derivative financial instruments are contractual agreements with a value that reflects price movements in an underlying asset. The Company uses derivative financial instruments, principally jet fuel derivatives, interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts to manage commodity risks, interest rate risks and currency exposures and achieve the desired profile of borrowings and leases. It is the Company’s policy that no speculative trading in financial instruments shall take place.

 

The main risks attaching to the Company’s financial instruments, the Company’s strategy and approach to managing these risks, and the details of the derivatives employed to hedge against these risks have been disclosed in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

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(a) Financial assets and financial liabilities—fair values

 

The carrying value and fair value of the Company’s financial assets by class and category at March 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

    Available
For Sale
  Cash Flow
Hedges
  Fair Value
Hedges
  Loans and
Receivables
  Total
Carrying
Value
  Total Fair
Value
    €000   €000   €000   €000   €000   €000

At March 31, 2009

           

Available-for-sale financial assets

  93,150   —     —     —     93,150   93,150

Cash and cash equivalents

  —     —     —     1,583,194   1,583,194   1,583,194

Financial asset: cash > 3 months

  —     —     —     403,401   403,401   403,401

Restricted cash

  —     —     —     291,601   291,601   291,601

Derivative financial instruments

           

—FX on aircraft purchase firm commitments

  —     —     664   —     664   664

—U.S. dollar currency forward contracts

  —     189,268   —     —     189,268   189,268

Trade receivables

  —     —     —     41,791   41,791   41,791
                       

Total financial assets at March 31, 2009

  93,150   189,268   664   2,319,987   2,603,069   2,603,069
                       

At March 31, 2008

           

Available-for-sale financial assets

  311,462   —     —     —     311,462   311,462

Cash and cash equivalents

  —     —     —     1,470,849   1,470,849   1,470,849

Financial asset: cash > 3 months

  —     —     —     406,274   406,274   406,274

Restricted cash

  —     —     —     292,431   292,431   292,431

Derivative financial instruments

           

—FX on aircraft purchase firm commitments

  —     —     27,252   —     27,252   27,252

—U.S. dollar currency forward contracts

  —     4,213   —     —     4,213   4,213

—Jet fuel derivative contracts

  —     6,015   —     —     6,015   6,015

Trade receivables

  —     —     —     34,178   34,178   34,178
                       

Total financial assets at March 31, 2008

  311,462   10,228   27,252   2,203,732   2,552,674   2,552,674
                       

 

The carrying value and fair value of the Company’s financial liabilities by class and category were as follows:

 

     Amortised
Cost
   Cash Flow
Hedges
   Fair Value
Hedges
   Total
Carrying
Value
   Total Fair
Value
     €000    €000    €000    €000    €000

At March 31, 2009

              

Long-term debt

   2,398,440    —      —      2,398,440    2,398,194

Derivative financial instruments

              

—Interest rate swaps

   —      84,803    —      84,803    84,803

—Jet fuel derivative contracts

   —      106,710    —      106,710    106,710

Trade payables

   132,671    —      —      132,671    132,671

Accrued expenses

   226,322    —      —      226,322    226,322
                        

Total financial liabilities at March 31, 2009

   2,757,433    191,513    —      2,948,946    2,948,700
                        

At March 31, 2008

              

Long-term debt

   2,266,495    —      —      2,266,495    2,278,774

Derivative financial instruments

              

—Interest rate swaps

   —      59,527    —      59,527    59,527

—U.S. dollar currency forward contracts

   —      113,165    44,703    157,868    157,868

Trade payables

   129,289    —      —      129,289    129,289

Accrued expenses

   283,374    —      —      283,374    283,374
                        

Total financial liabilities at March 31, 2008

   2,679,158    172,692    44,703    2,896,553    2,908,832
                        

 

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Estimation of fair values

 

Fair value is the amount at which a financial instrument could be exchanged in an arm’s length transaction between informed and willing parties, other than as part of a forced liquidation sale. The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each material class of the Company’s financial instruments:

 

Cash and liquid resources: Carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. Cash and cash resources comprise cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and restricted cash.

 

Fixed-rate long-term debt: The repayments which Ryanair is committed to make have been discounted at the relevant rates of interest applicable (including credit spreads) at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008, which would be payable to a third party to assume the obligations.

 

Derivatives—interest rate swaps: Discounted cash-flow analyses have been used to determine the estimated amount Ryanair would receive or pay to terminate the contracts. Discounted cash-flow analyses are based on estimated future interest rates.

 

Derivatives—currency forwards and aircraft fuel contracts: a comparison of the contracted rate to the market rate for contracts providing a similar risk management profile at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008 has been made.

 

(b) Commodity risk

 

The Company’s exposure to price risk in this regard is primarily for jet fuel used in the normal course of operations.

 

At the year-end, the Company had the following jet fuel arrangements in place:

 

     At March 31,
     2009     2008
     €000     €000

Jet fuel forward contracts—fair value

   (106,710   6,015
          

 

All of the above commodity contracts mature within the year and are matched against highly probable forecast fuel purchases.

 

(c) Maturity and interest rate risk profile of financial assets and financial liabilities

 

At March 31, 2009, the Company had total borrowings of €2,398.4 million (March 31, 2008: €2,266.5 million) from various financial institutions, provided primarily on the basis of guarantees granted by the Export-Import Bank of the United States to finance the acquisition of 109 Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft (2008: 107). The guarantees are secured with a first fixed mortgage on the delivered aircraft. The remaining long-term debt relates to 20 aircraft held under finance leases (2008: 14), 6 aircraft financed by way of other commercial debt (2008: 6) and aircraft simulators. The three remaining aircraft in Ryanair’s fleet at March 31, 2009, which the Company had agreed to dispose of at future dates in 2010 (see Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements), were owned free and clear of financing-related encumbrances.

 

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The maturity profile of the Company’s financial liabilities at March 31, 2009 was as follows:

 

    Weighted
average
fixed rate
    2010     2011     2012     2013     Thereafter     Total  
    (%)     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000  

Fixed rate

             

Secured long term-debt

  5.81   999      999      999      —        —        2,997   

Debt swapped from floating to fixed

  5.96   63,301      64,835      66,402      68,006      214,558      477,102   
                                         

Secured long-term debt after swaps

  5.96   64,300      65,834      67,401      68,006      214,558      480,099   

Finance leases

  2.63   —        —        —        —        187,001      187,001   
                                     

Total fixed rate debt

    64,300      65,834      67,401      68,006      401,559      667,100   
                                     

Floating rate

             

Secured long-term debt

    170,874      176,427      182,281      188,389      1,089,637      1,807,608   

Debt swapped from floating to fixed

    (63,301   (64,835   (66,402   (68,006   (214,558   (477,102
                                     

Secured long-term debt after swaps

  2.12   107,573      111,592      115,879      120,383      875,079      1,330,506   

Finance leases

  2.63   31,068      32,499      33,997      35,562      267,708      400,834   
                                     

Total floating rate debt

  2.20   138,641      144,091      149,876      155,945      1,142,787      1,731,340   
                                     

Total financial liabilities

    202,941      209,925      217,277      223,951      1,544,346      2,398,440   
                                     

 

All of the above debt maturing after 2013 will mature between 2013 and 2022.

 

The maturity profile of the Company’s financial liabilities at March 31, 2008 was as follows:

 

    Weighted
average
fixed rate
    2009     2010     2011     2012     Thereafter     Total  
    (%)     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000  

Fixed rate

             

Secured long term-debt

  5.17   202,776      37,103      8,630      9,048      19,803      277,360   

Debt swapped from floating to fixed

  5.92   66,072      67,719      69,391      71,102      296,265      570,549   
                                         

Secured long-term debt after swaps

  5.67   268,848      104,822      78,021      80,150      316,068      847,909   

Finance leases

  2.63   —        —        —        —        127,531      127,531   
                                     

Total fixed rate debt

    268,848      104,822      78,021      80,150      443,599      975,440   
                                     

Floating rate

             

Secured long-term debt

    142,882      147,607      152,455      157,430      978,461      1,578,835   

Debt swapped from floating to fixed

    (66,072   (67,719   (69,391   (71,102   (296,265   (570,549
                                     

Secured long-term debt after swaps

  4.52   76,810      79,888      83,064      86,328      682,196      1,008,286   

Finance leases

  5.13   21,143      22,120      23,142      24,210      192,154      282,769   
                                     

Total floating rate debt

  4.65   97,953      102,008      106,206      110,538      874,350      1,291,055   
                                     

Total financial liabilities

    366,801      206,830      184,227      190,688      1,317,949      2,266,495   
                                     

 

The following provides an analysis of changes in borrowings during the year:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Balance at start of year

   2,266,495      1,862,066   

Loans raised to finance aircraft

   459,000      646,392   

Repayments of amounts borrowed

   (327,055   (241,963
            

Balance at end of year

   2,398,440      2,266,495   
            

Less than one year

   202,941      366,801   

More than one year

   2,195,499      1,899,694   
            
   2,398,440      2,266,495   
            

 

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The maturities of the contractual undiscounted cash flows (including estimated future interest payments on debt) of the Company’s financial liabilities are as follows:

 

        Total
Carrying
Value
  Total
Contractual
Cash flows
    2010     2011     2012     2013     Thereafter  
        €000   €000     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000  

At March 31, 2009

               

Long term debt and finance leases

               

—Fixed rate debt

  5.96%   667,100   826,644      96,581      94,173      91,753      88,332      455,805   

—Floating rate debt

  2.20%   1,731,340   1,975,961      179,525      181,620      183,904      186,342      1,244,570   
                                         
    2,398,440   2,802,605      276,106      275,793      275,657      274,674      1,700,375   

Derivative financial instruments

               

—Interest rate swaps

    84,803   92,345      22,014      25,212      19,584      10,925      14,610   

—Jet fuel—derivative contracts

    106,710   106,710      106,710      —        —        —        —     

Trade payables

    132,671   132,671      132,671      —        —        —        —     

Accrued expenses

    226,322   226,322      226,322      —        —        —        —     
                                         

Total at March 31, 2009

    2,948,946   3,360,653      763,823      301,005      295,241      285,599      1,714,985   
                                         
        Total
Carrying
Value
  Total
Contractual
Cash flows
    2009     2010     2011     2012     Thereafter  
        €000   €000     €000     €000     €000     €000     €000  

At March 31, 2008

               

Long term debt and finance leases

               

—Fixed rate debt

  5.67%   975,440   1,186,740      318,437      147,939      107,842      105,328      507,194   

—Floating rate debt

  4.65%   1,291,055   1,656,045      157,506      156,853      156,077      155,341      1,030,268   
                                         
    2,266,495   2,842,785      475,943      304,792      263,919      260,669      1,537,462   

Derivative financial instruments

               

—Interest rate swaps

    59,527   52,364      13,241      12,704      10,975      5,602      9,842   

—U.S. dollar currency forward contracts—gross cash outflows

    157,868   2,148,940      1,366,717      600,065      148,009      28,771      5,378   

—U.S. dollar currency forward contracts—gross cash inflows

    —     (1,961,096   (1,225,310   (565,563   (138,905   (26,640   (4,678

Trade payables

    129,289   129,289      129,289      —        —        —        —     

Accrued expenses

    283,374   283,374      283,374      —        —        —        —     
                                         

Total at March 31, 2008

    2,896,553   3,495,656      1,043,254      351,998      283,998      268,402      1,548,004   
                                         

 

Interest rate re-pricing

 

Floating interest rates on financial liabilities are generally referenced to European inter-bank interest rates (EURIBOR). Secured long-term debt and interest rate swaps typically re-price on a quarterly basis with finance leases re-pricing on a semi-annual basis. We use current interest rate settings on existing debt at each year-end to calculate contractual cash flows.

 

Fixed interest rates on financial liabilities are fixed for the duration of the underlying structures (typically between 10 and 12 years).

 

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The Company holds significant cash balances that are invested on a short-term basis. At March 31, 2009, all of the Company’s cash and liquid resources had a maturity of one year or less and attracted a weighted average interest rate of 1.84% (March 31, 2008: 4.51%).

 

     March 31, 2009    March 31, 2008
      Within
1 year
   Total    Within
1 year
   Total
     €000    €000    €000    €000

Financial assets:

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   1,583,194    1,583,194    1,470,849    1,470,849

Cash > 3 months

   403,401    403,401    406,274    406,274

Restricted cash

   291,601    291,601    292,431    292,431
                   

Total financial assets

   2,278,196    2,278,196    2,169,554    2,169,554
                   

 

Interest rates on cash and liquid resources are generally based on the appropriate EURIBOR, LIBOR or bank rates dependant on the principal amounts on deposit.

 

As described in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company also held €93.1 million of an equity investment in Aer Lingus at March 31, 2009 (2008: €311.5 million). This has no fixed maturity and is not interest bearing.

 

(d) Foreign currency risk

 

The Company has exposure to various foreign currencies (principally U.K. pounds sterling and U.S. dollars) due to the international nature of its operations. The Company manages this risk by matching U.K. pound sterling revenues against U.K. pound sterling costs. Any remaining unmatched U.K. pound sterling revenues are used to fund U.S. dollar currency exposures that arise in relation to fuel, maintenance, aviation insurance and capital expenditure costs or are sold for Euro. The Company also sells Euro forward to cover certain U.S. dollar costs. Further details of the hedging activity carried out by the Company are disclosed in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

The following table shows the net amount of monetary assets of the Company that are not denominated in Euro at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008. Such amounts have been translated using the following year-end foreign currency rates in 2009: €/£: 0.9308; €/$: 1.3308 (2008: €/£: 0.7958; €/$: 1.5812)

 

     March 31, 2009    March 31, 2008
     GBP    U.S.$    Euro
equiv.
   GBP    U.S.$    Euro
equiv.
     £000    $000    €000    £000    $000    €000

Monetary assets

                 

GBP cash and liquid resources

   24,434    —      26,251    48,453    —      60,886

USD cash and liquid resources

   —      13,900    10,445    —      7,104    4,493
                             
   24,434    13,900    36,696    48,453    7,104    65,379
                             

 

All of the Company’s financial liabilities are denominated in Euro.

 

The following table gives details of the notional amounts of the Company’s currency forward contracts as at March 31, 2009 and at March 31, 2008:

 

     March 31, 2009     March 31, 2008  
      U.S.$     Euro
equiv.
    U.S.$     Euro
equiv.
 
     $000     €000     $000     €000  

Currency forward contracts

        

U.S. dollar currency forward contracts

        

—for fuel purchases

   1,780,064      1,268,823      1,434,435      1,011,698   

—for aircraft sales

   (101,500   (75,832   (105,000   (70,896

—for aircraft purchases

   1,464,000      984,970      1,771,449      1,208,137   
                        
   3,142,564      2,177,961      3,100,884      2,148,939   
                        

 

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(e) Equity risk

 

The Company has exposure to equity price risk primarily in relation to its 29.8% investment in Aer Lingus. The Company does not have significant influence over Aer Lingus and accordingly, this investment is classified as an available-for-sale financial asset rather than an investment in an associate.

 

(f) Credit risk

 

The Company holds significant cash balances, which are invested on a short-term basis and are classified as either cash equivalents or liquid investments. These deposits and other financial instruments (principally certain derivatives and loans as identified above) give rise to credit risk on amounts due from counterparties. Credit risk is managed by limiting the aggregate amount and duration of exposure to any one counterparty through regular review of market-based ratings, Tier 1 capital and credit default swaps and by taking into account bank counterparties’ systemic importance to the financial systems of their home countries. The Company typically enters into deposits and derivative contracts with parties that have at least an “A” or equivalent credit rating. The maximum exposure arising in the event of default on the part of the counterparty is the carrying value of the relevant financial instrument. The Company typically does not enter into deposits with a duration of more than 12 months.

 

The Company’s revenues derive principally from airline travel on scheduled services, car hire and in-flight and related sales. Revenue is wholly derived from European routes. No individual customer accounts for a significant portion of total revenue.

 

At March 31, 2009 €0.7 million (2008: €0.7 million) of our total accounts receivable balance was past due, of which €0.1 million (2008: €0.1 million) was impaired and provided for and €0.6 million (2008: €0.6 million) was past due but not impaired. See Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

(g) Liquidity and capital management

 

The Company’s cash and liquid resources comprise cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and restricted cash. The Company defines the capital that it manages as the Company’s long-term debt and equity. The Company’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to maintain sufficient financial resources to mitigate against risks and unforeseen events.

 

The Company finances its working capital requirements through a combination of cash generated from operations and bank loans for the acquisition of aircraft. The Company had cash and liquid resources at March 31, 2009 of €2,278.2 million (March 31, 2008: €2,169.6 million). During the year, the Company funded €702.0 million in purchases of property, plant and equipment and a €46.0 million share buy-back programme. Cash generated from operations has been the principal source for these cash requirements, supplemented primarily by aircraft-related financing structures.

 

The Board of Directors periodically reviews the capital structure of the Company, considering the cost of capital and the risks associated with each class of capital. The Board approves any material adjustments to the capital structure in terms of the relative proportions of debt and equity.

 

Ryanair has generally been able to generate sufficient funds from operations to meet its non-aircraft acquisition-related working capital requirements. Management believes that the working capital available to the Company is sufficient for its present requirements and will be sufficient to meet its anticipated requirements for capital expenditures and other cash requirements for the 2010 fiscal year.

 

(h) Guarantees

 

Details of the Company’s guarantees and the related accounting have been disclosed in Note 23 to the financial statements.

 

(i) Sensitivity analysis

 

  (i)

Interest rate risk: Based on the levels of and composition of year-end interest bearing assets and liabilities, including derivatives, at March 31, 2009, a plus or minus one percentage point movement in interest rates would result in a respective increase or decrease of €2.4 million (net of tax) in the interest charge in the income statement. All of the Group’s interest rate swaps are used to swap variable rate

 

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debt to fixed rate debt; consequently any changes in interest rates would have an equal and opposite income statement effect for both the interest rate swaps and the debt. A 1% movement in interest rates would have an effect of less than €1.5 million on the amounts held in the cash-flow hedge reserve in equity.

 

  (ii) Foreign currency risk: A plus or minus change of 10% in relevant foreign currency exchange rates, based on outstanding foreign currency-denominated financial assets and financial liabilities at March 31, 2009 would have a respective positive or negative impact on the income statement of €3.6 million (net of tax) and on equity of €190 million (net of tax).

 

  (iii) Equity price risk: A decrease of 10% in the Aer Lingus share price as of March 31, 2009 would result in a decrease of €9.3 million in the fair value of the available-for-sale financial assets. The decrease would be recognised as an impairment in the income statement. An increase of 10% in the Aer Lingus share price at March 31, 2009 would result in an increase of €9.3 million in the fair value of the available-for-sale financial assets. Such increase would be recognised directly in other reserves.

 

12 Deferred and current taxation

 

The components of the deferred and current taxation in the balance sheet were as follows:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Current tax liabilities/(assets)

    

Corporation tax provision/(prepayment)

   425      (1,585
            

Total current tax

   425      (1,585
            

Deferred tax liabilities

    

Origination and reversal of temporary differences on property, plant and equipment, derivatives, pensions, and available-for-sale securities

   189,848      148,088   
            

Total non-current deferred tax liabilities

   189,848      148,088   
            

Deferred tax (assets)

    

Net operating losses

   (34,324   —     
            

Total non-current deferred tax assets

   (34,324   —     
            

Total deferred tax liabilities (net)

   155,524      148,088   
            

Total tax liabilities (net)

   155,949      146,503   
            

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Reconciliation of current tax

    

At beginning of year

   (1,585   20,822   

Corporation tax (credit)/charge in year

   664      28,632   

Adjustment in respect of prior-year over-provision

   (409   (3,805

Tax refunded/(paid)

   1,755      (47,234
            

At end of year

   425      (1,585
            

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Reconciliation of deferred tax

    

At beginning of year

   148,088      151,032   

Adjustment in respect of prior year over-provision

   136      (20

Recognition of deferred tax asset re net operating losses

   (34,324   —     

New temporary differences on property, plant and equipment, derivatives, pensions and other items

   41,624      (2,924
            

At end of year

   155,524      148,088   
            

 

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During the 2009 fiscal year, a deferred tax asset of €34.3 million was recognised in respect of net operating losses incurred and available to carry forward to future periods. The recoverability of the deferred tax asset is based on future income forecasts which demonstrate that it is more likely than not that future profits will be available in order to utilise the deferred tax asset. The deferred tax asset’s recoverability is not dependent on material improvements over historical levels of pre-tax income, material changes in the present relationship between income reported for financial and tax purposes, or material asset sales or other non-routine transactions.

 

New temporary differences arising in the year to March 31, 2009 consisted of temporary differences of €22.6 million for property, plant and equipment recognised in the income statement, a charge of €20.1 million for derivatives and a credit of €1.0 million for pensions, all recognised in equity. The charge to March 31, 2008 consisted of temporary differences of a charge of €23.4 million for property, plant and equipment recognised in the income statement, €0.6 million for pensions, and credits of €14.7 million for derivatives and €12.2 million in respect of available-for-sale assets, all recognised in equity.

 

The components of the tax (credit)/expense in the income statement were as follows:

 

     Year ended
March 31,
2009
    Year ended
March 31,
2008
    Year ended
March 31,
2007
 
     €000     €000     €000  

Current tax charge/(credit) for year

   664      28,632      22,310   

Adjustment in respect of prior-year over-provisions

   (274   (3,825   (33,619

Deferred tax charge relating to origination and reversal of temporary differences

   (11,704   23,412      26,746   
                     
   (11,314   48,219      15,437   
                     

 

The following table reconciles the statutory rate of Irish corporation tax to the Company’s effective corporation tax rate:

 

     Year ended
March 31,
2009
    Year ended
March 31,
2008
    Year ended
March 31,
2007
 
     %     %     %  

Statutory rate of Irish corporation tax

   (12.5   12.5      12.5   

Adjustments for earnings taxed at higher rates

   1.0      1.3      1.2   

Adjustments for earnings taxed at lower rates

   (13.2   (4.8   (3.2

Loss on impairment of available-for-sale financial asset

   18.6      2.8      —     

Other differences

   —        —        0.5   

Adjustments for prior year over-provisions

   (0.2   (0.8   (7.6
                  

Total effective rate of taxation

   (6.3   11.0      3.4   
                  

 

Deferred tax applicable to items charged or credited directly to equity were as follows:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Defined benefit pension obligations

   (1,073   643   

Derivative financial instruments

   20,027      (14,741

Available for sale securities

   —        (12,231
               

Total tax charge/(credit) in equity

   18,954      (26,329
               

 

The majority of current and deferred tax recorded in each of fiscal 2009 and 2008 relates to domestic tax charges and there is no expiry date associated with these temporary differences. In fiscal 2009, the Irish corporation tax rate remained at 12.5%.

 

Ryanair.com Limited is engaged in international data processing and reservation services. As such, Ryanair.com Limited is entitled to claim a 10% corporation tax rate on profits derived from qualifying activities in accordance with Section 448 of the Taxes Consolidated Act, 1997. This legislation provides for the continuation of the 10% effective corporation tax rate until 2010.

 

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The principal components of deferred tax at each year-end were:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008  
     €000     €000  

Arising on capital allowances and other temporary differences

   191,399      168,644   

Arising on net operating losses carried forward

   (34,324   —     

Arising on derivatives

   (281   (20,304

Arising on pensions

   (1,270   (252
               

Total

   155,524      148,088   
               

 

At March 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company had fully provided for all required deferred tax assets and liabilities. There are no taxable temporary differences on overseas subsidiaries and, on that basis, no deferred tax has been provided for on the un-remitted earnings of overseas subsidiaries because there is no intention to remit these to Ireland.

 

13 Provisions

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Provision for aircraft maintenance on operating leased aircraft(a)

   61,807    42,790

Provision for pension obligation(b)

   10,157    2,020
         
   71,964    44,810
         

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

(a) Provision for aircraft maintenance on operating leased aircraft

     

At beginning of year

   42,790    28,719

Charge for the year

   19,017    14,071
         

At end of year

   61,807    42,790
         

 

The expected timing of the outflows of economic benefits associated with the provision at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008 are as follows:

 

     Carrying
value
   2011    2012    2013    2014    Thereafter
     €000    €000    €000    €000    €000    €000

At March 31, 2009

                 

Provision for leased aircraft maintenance

   61,807    14,443    13,806    8,345    14,369    10,844
                             
     Carrying
value
   2010    2011    2012    2013    Thereafter
     €000    €000    €000    €000    €000    €000

At March 31, 2008

                 

Provision for leased aircraft maintenance

   42,790    —      11,635    10,879    7,161    13,115
                             

 

     At March 31,  
     2009    2008  
     €000    €000  

(b) Provision for pension obligation

     

At beginning of year

   2,020    6,980   

Movement during the year

   8,137    (4,960
           

At end of year

   10,157    2,020   
           

 

The present value of the net pension obligation before tax is €10.1 million (2008: €2.0 million) in Ryanair Limited. See Note 21 to the financial statements for further details.

 

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14 Other creditors

 

This consists of deferred gains arising from the sale and leaseback of aircraft. During fiscal year 2009, Ryanair entered into a sale-and-leaseback arrangement for eight (2008: three) new Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft, in addition to 35 in previous years.

 

15 Issued share capital, share premium account and share options

 

(a) Share capital

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Authorised:

     

1,680,000,000 ordinary equity shares of 0.635 Euro cent each

   10,668    10,668
         

Allotted, called-up and fully paid:

     

1,473,356,159 ordinary equity shares of 0.635 Euro cent each

   9,354    —  

1,490,804,671 ordinary equity shares of 0.635 Euro cent each

   —      9,465
         

 

The movement in the share capital balance year on year principally relates to 0.7 million (2008: 3.2 million) in new shares issued due to the exercise of share options, less the cancellation of 18.1 million shares relating to a share buy-back (2008: 59.5 million).

 

The share capital of Ryanair consists of one class of stock, the ordinary equity shares. The ordinary equity shares do not confer on the holders thereof the specific right to be paid a dividend out of profits.

 

(b) Share premium account

 

      At March 31,
     2009    2008
     €000    €000

Balance at beginning of year

   615,815    607,433

Share premium arising from the exercise of 651,488 options in fiscal 2009 and 3,238,540 in fiscal 2008

   1,611    8,382
         

Balance at end of year

   617,426    615,815
         

 

(c) Share options and share purchase arrangements

 

The Company has adopted a number of share option plans, which allow current or future employees or executive directors to purchase shares in the Company up to an aggregate of approximately 5% (when aggregated with other ordinary shares over which options are granted and which have not yet been exercised) of the outstanding ordinary shares of Ryanair Holdings plc, subject to certain conditions. All grants are subject to approval by the Remuneration Committee. These are exercisable at a price equal to the market price of the ordinary shares at the time options are granted. The key terms of these option plans include the requirement that certain employees remain in employment with the Company for a specified period of time.

 

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Details of the share options outstanding are set out below:

 

     Share Options     Weighted
Average
Exercise Price

Outstanding at March 31, 2007

   35,107,978      2.77
            

Exercised

   (3,238,540   2.63

Granted

   3,901,875      4.99

Expired

   (153,308   2.11

Forfeited

   (829,396   2.64
            

Outstanding at March 31, 2008

   34,788,609      3.04
            

Exercised

   (651,488   2.49

Granted

   10,000,000      2.56

Expired

   (224,474   2.94

Forfeited

   (2,187,202   3.00
            

Outstanding at March 31, 2009

   41,725,445      2.94
            

 

The mid-market price of Ryanair Holdings plc’s ordinary shares on the Irish Stock Exchange at March 31, 2009 was €2.89 (March 31, 2008: €2.80). The highest and lowest prices at which the Company’s shares traded on the Irish Stock Exchange in the 2009 fiscal year were €3.41 and €1.97, respectively (2008: €6.33 and €2.55, respectively). There were 15,418,486 options exercisable at March 31, 2009 (March 31, 2008: 6,838,970). The average share price for the year was €2.83 (2008: €4.81).

 

The weighted average share price (as of the dates of exercises) for all options exercised during the 2009 fiscal year was €3.18 (2008: €5.21).

 

At March 31, 2009 the range of exercise prices and weighted average remaining contractual life of outstanding and exercisable options was as follows:

 

     Options outstanding    Options exercisable

Range of exercise price (€)

   Number
outstanding
   Weighed-
average
remaining
contractual life
(years)
   Weighted-
average
exercise
price (€)
   Number
exercisable
   Weighed-
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
   Weighted-
average
exercise
price (€)

2.21-3.21

   37,298,411    3.28    2.71    14,248,411    0.84    2.62

3.77-4.99

   4,427,034    3.82    4.84    1,170,075    1.26    4.99
                             

2.21-4.99

   41,725,445    3.34    2.94    15,418,486    0.87    2.80
                             

 

The Company has accounted for its share option grants to employees at fair value, in accordance with IFRS 2, using a binomial lattice model to value the option grants. This has resulted in a charge of €3.76 million (2008: €10.9 million) being recognised within the income statement in respect of employee services rendered, which was based on 23.7 million share options within the scope of IFRS 2 (2008: 19.3 million) as compared to the total share options disclosed above (as permitted by the transitional rules in IFRS 1).

 

The weighted average fair value of the individual options granted during the years ended March 31, 2009 and 2008 were estimated, using a binomial lattice model, based on the following assumptions:

 

     2009    2008    2008    2007

Date granted

     Sept 18, 2008      June 11, 2007      June 8, 2007      Apr 7, 2006

Date of earliest exercise

     Sept 18, 2013      June 11, 2012      July 03, 2008      Apr 7, 2011

Date of expiration

     Sept 18, 2015      June 11, 2014      July 03, 2014      Apr 7, 2013

Fair value

   1.02    2.14    1.88    1.51

Assumptions:

           

Risk-free interest rate

     3.9%      4.5%      4.1%      3.7%

Volatility(a)

     40.0%      35.0%      35.0%      40.0%

Dividend yield

     Nil      Nil      Nil      Nil

Expected life (years)

     5.5      5.5      5.5      5.5

 

(a) Historical daily volatility over a five-and-a-half-year period.

 

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16 Retained earnings and other equity movements

 

    Ordinary
shares
    Share
premium
account
  Retained
earnings
    Capital
redemption
reserve
  Other
Reserves
    Total  
    €000     €000   €000     €000   €000     €000  

Balance at March 31, 2006

  9,790      596,231   1,467,623      —     (81,659   1,991,985   

Issue of ordinary equity shares (net of issue costs)

  32      11,202   —        —     —        11,234   

Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash-flow hedges

  —        —     —        —     79,025      79,025   

Net change in fair value of cash-flow hedges transferred to the income statement.

  —        —     —        —     (32,920   (32,920
                               

Net movements into cash-flow hedge reserve

  —        —     —        —     46,105      46,105   

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale asset

  —        —     —        —     48,926      48,926   

Share-based payments

  —        —     —        —     3,935      3,935   

Retirement benefits

  —        —     1,988      —     —        1,988   
                               

Subtotal

  —        —     1,988      —     98,966      100,954   

Profit for the year

  —        —     435,600      —     —        435,600   
                               

Balance at March 31, 2007

  9,822      607,433   1,905,211      —     17,307      2,539,773   
                               

Issue of ordinary equity shares (net of issue costs)

  21      8,382   —        —     —        8,403   

Repurchase of ordinary equity shares

  —        —     (299,994   —     —        (299,994

Creation of capital redemption reserve fund

  (378   —     —        378   —        —     

Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash-flow hedges

  —        —     —        —     26,768      26,768   

Net change in fair value of cash-flow hedges transferred to the income statement

  —        —     —        —     (129,960   (129,960
                               

Net movements into cash-flow hedge reserve

  —        —     —        —     (103,192   (103,192

Net (decrease) in fair value of available-for-sale financial asset

  —        —     —        —     (140,495   (140,495

Impairment of available-for-sale financial asset

           

Written off to income statement

  —        —     —        —     91,569      91,569   
                               

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale asset

  —        —     —        —     (48,926   (48,926

Share-based payments

  —        —     —        —     10,925      10,925   

Retirement benefits

  —        —     4,497      —     —        4,497   
                               

Subtotal

  (378   —     (295,497   378   (141,193   (436,690

Profit for the year

  —        —     390,708      —     —        390,708   
                               

Balance at March 31, 2008

  9,465      615,815   2,000,422      378   (123,886   2,502,194   
                               

Issue of ordinary equity shares (net of issue costs)

  4      1,611   —        —     —        1,615   

Repurchase of ordinary equity shares

  —        —     (46,015   —     —        (46,015

Capital redemption reserve fund

  (115   —     —        115   —        —     

Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash-flow hedges

  —        —     —        —     255,829      255,829   

Net change in fair value of cash-flow hedges transferred to the income statement

  —        —     —        —     (115,639   (115,639
                               

Net movements into cash-flow hedge reserve

  —        —     —        —     140,190      140,190   

Net (decrease) in fair value of available-for-sale financial asset

  —        —     —        —     (222,537   (222,537

Impairment of available-for-sale financial asset

           

Written off to income statement

  —        —     —        —     222,537      222,537   
                               

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale asset

  —        —     —        —     —        —     

Share-based payments

  —        —     —        —     3,757      3,757   

Retirement benefits

  —        —     (7,507   —     —        (7,507
                               

Subtotal

  (115   —     (53,522   115   143,947      90,425   

Loss for the year

  —        —     (169,173   —     —        (169,173
                               

Balance at March 31, 2009

  9,354      617,426   1,777,727      493   20,061      2,425,061   
                               

 

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The total share based payments reserve at March 31, 2009 was €22.1 million (March 31, 2008: €18.3 million) and the total cash flow hedge reserve amounted to €2.0 million at March 31, 2009 (March 31, 2008: €(142.2) million). Further details of the group’s derivatives are set out in notes 5 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

17 Analysis of operating revenues and segmental analysis

 

All revenues derive from the Company’s principal activity and business segment as a low-fares airline and include scheduled services, car hire, Internet income and related sales to third parties.

 

Revenue is analysed by geographical area (by country of origin) as follows:

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
   Year ended
March 31,

2008
   Year ended
March 31,

2007
     €000    €000    €000

United Kingdom

   954,616    1,021,005    984,010

Other European countries

   1,987,349    1,692,817    1,252,885
              
   2,941,965    2,713,822    2,236,895
              

 

Ancillary revenues included in total revenue above comprise:

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
   Year ended
March 31,

2008
   Year ended
March 31,

2007
     €000    €000    €000

Non-flight scheduled

   425,808    334,580    241,990

Car hire

   32,172    25,266    22,972

In-flight

   83,196    73,314    60,079

Internet income

   56,921    54,970    37,063
              
   598,097    488,130    362,104
              

 

All of the Company’s operating profit arises from low-fares airline-related activities, its only business segment. The major revenue earning assets of the Company are its aircraft, which are registered in Ireland and therefore all profits accrue principally in Ireland. Since the Company’s aircraft fleet is flexibly employed across its route network in Europe, there is no suitable basis of allocating such assets and related liabilities to geographical segments. Internet income comprises revenue generated from Ryanair.com, excluding Internet car-hire revenue, which is included under the heading “car hire.” Non-flight scheduled revenue arises from the sale of rail and bus tickets, hotel reservations and other revenues, including excess baggage charges, all directly attributable to the low-fares business.

 

18 Staff numbers and costs

 

The average weekly number of employees, including the executive director, during the year, analysed by category, was as follows:

 

     Year ended
March 31,
2009
   Year ended
March 31,
2008
   Year ended
March 31,
2007

Flight and cabin crew

   5,402    4,225    3,052

Sales, operations and administration

   967    1,037    939
              
   6,369    5,262    3,991
              

 

The aggregate payroll costs of these persons were as follows:

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
   Year ended
March 31,

2008
   Year ended
March 31,

2007
     €000    €000    €000

Salaries and related costs

   284,970    254,045    204,654

Social welfare costs

   18,081    18,062    15,547

Other pension costs(a)

   2,488    2,311    2,444

Share based payments

   3,757    10,925    3,935
              
   309,296    285,343    226,580
              

 

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(a) Costs in respect of defined-contribution benefit plans and other pension arrangements were €1.7 million in 2009 (2008: €1.0 million; 2007: €0.7 million) while costs associated with defined-benefit plans included here were €0.8 million in 2009 (2008: €1.3 million; 2007: €1.7 million). (See Note 21 to the financial statements).

 

19 Statutory and other information

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
   Year ended
March 31,

2008
   Year ended
March 31,

2007
     €000    €000    €000

Directors’ emoluments:

        

—Fees

   237    237    251

—Other emoluments, including bonus and pension contributions

   1,113    1,258    1,032
              

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

   243,818    167,479    138,109

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment held under finance leases

   12,299    8,470    5,394

Auditor’s remuneration

        

—integrated audit(i)

   515    510    931

—audit-related(ii)

   9    6    18

—tax services(iii)

   249    200    243

Operating lease charges, principally for aircraft

   78,209    72,670    58,183

 

(i) Audit services include integrated audit work performed on the consolidated financial statements, as well as work that generally only the independent auditor can reasonably be expected to provide, including statutory audits, and discussions surrounding the proper application of financial accounting and/or reporting standards.
(ii) Audit-related services are for assurance and related services that are traditionally performed by the independent auditor, including due diligence related to mergers and acquisitions, employee benefit plan audits, and special procedures required to meet certain regulatory requirements.
(iii) Tax services include all services, except those services specifically related to the audit of financial statements, performed by the independent auditor’s tax personnel, supporting tax-related regulatory requirements, and tax compliance and reporting.

 

(a) Fees and emoluments—executive director

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
   Year ended
March 31,

2008
   Year ended
March 31,

2007
     €000    €000    €000

Basic salary

   535    595    565

Bonus (performance and target-related)

   470    560    365

Pension contributions

   68    63    62
              
   1,073    1,218    992
              

 

During the years ended March 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 Michael O’Leary was the only executive director. In fiscal year 2009, Michael O’Leary chose to surrender 10% of his basic salary. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010, as part of a company-wide pay freeze, Mr. O’Leary will not receive a salary increase and his bonus payment will be reduced to €241,000.

 

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(b) Fees and emoluments—non-executive directors

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
   Year ended
March 31,

2008
   Year ended
March 31,

2007
     €000    €000    €000

Fees

        

Emmanuel Faber

   47    47    47

Michael Horgan

   32    32    32

Klaus Kirchberger

   32    32    32

Raymond MacSharry (retired September, 2006)

   —      —      23

Kyran McLaughlin

   47    47    47

James R. Osborne

   47    47    38

Paolo Pietrogrande

   32    32    32
              
   237    237    251
              

Emoluments

        

Michael Horgan

   40    40    40
              
   277    277    291
              

 

(c) Pension benefits

 

Director

   Increase in
Accrued Benefit
   Transfer Value
Equivalent of Increase in
Accrued Benefit
   Total Accumulated
Accrued Benefit
     Fiscal
2009
   Fiscal
2008
   Fiscal
2007
   Fiscal
2009
   Fiscal
2008
   Fiscal
2007
   Fiscal
2009
   Fiscal
2008
   Fiscal
2007
                            

Michael O’Leary

   2,797    12,138    9,535    19,298    76,474    56,735    139,326    132,552    116,907
                                            

 

As of 1 October 2008, Michael O’Leary is no longer a member of a defined-benefit plan and is now a member of a defined-contribution plan. The cost of the death-in-service and disability benefits provided during the financial year is not included in the above figures. No pension benefits are provided for non-executive directors. The pension benefits set out above have been computed in accordance with Section 6.8 of the Listing Rules of the Irish Stock Exchange. The increases in transfer values of the accrued benefits have been calculated as at each year-end in accordance with Actuarial Standard of Practice PEN-11.

 

(d) Shares and share options

 

(i) Shares

 

Ryanair Holdings plc is listed on the Irish, London and Nasdaq stock exchanges.

 

The beneficial interests as at March 31, 2009, 2008, 2007 of the directors and of their spouses and minor children in the share capital of the Company are as follows:

 

     March 31,
2009
No. of Shares
   March 31,
2008
No. of Shares
   March 31,
2007
No. of Shares

David Bonderman

   14,117,360    14,117,360    14,117,360

Michael O’Leary

   65,000,016    65,000,016    65,000,016

James R. Osborne

   1,410,256    1,410,256    1,410,256

Kyran McLaughlin

   200,000    200,000    200,000

Michael Horgan

   50,000    50,000    50,000

 

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Table of Contents

(ii) Share options

 

The share options held by each director in office at the end of fiscal 2009 were as follows:

 

     March 31,
2009
Number of
Options
   March 31,
2008
Number of
Options
   March 31,
2007
Number of
Options

David Bonderman(c)

   25,000    25,000    —  

Emmanuel Faber(a)

   50,000    50,000    50,000

Michael Horgan(c)

   25,000    25,000    —  

Klaus Kirchberger(a)

   50,000    50,000    50,000

Kyran McLaughlin(c)

   25,000    25,000    —  

Michael O’Leary(b)

   81,240    81,240    81,240

James R. Osborne(c)

   25,000    25,000    —  

Paolo Pietrogrande(c)

   25,000    25,000    —  

 

(a) These options were granted to these directors at an exercise price of €2.83 (the market value at the date of grant) during the year ended March 31, 2003 and are exercisable between June 2007 and June 2009.
(b) These options were granted to Michael O’Leary as follows: 35,402 in fiscal 2003 at €2.86 and 45,838 in fiscal 2004 at €2.21 (the market values at the dates of grant), in either case under the 2003 share option plan; these are exercisable between 2008 and 2010.
(c) These options were granted to these directors at an exercise price of €4.96 (the market value at the date of grant) during the 2008 fiscal year and are exercisable between June 2013 and June 2015.

 

Directors not referred to above held no shares or share options.

 

In the 2009 fiscal year the Company incurred total share-based compensation expense of €0.05 million (2008: €0.05 million) in relation to directors.

 

20 Finance expense

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
    Year ended
March 31,

2008
    Year ended
March 31,

2007
 
     €000     €000     €000  

Interest payable on bank loans wholly repayable after five years

   130,671      97,344      82,891   

Interest arising on pension liabilities, net (see Note 21)

   (127   (256   (15
                  
   130,544      97,088      82,876   
                  

 

21 Pensions

 

The Company accounts for pensions in accordance with IAS 19, “Employee Benefits.”

 

The Company operates defined-benefit and defined-contribution schemes.

 

Defined-benefit schemes

 

The Company funds the pension entitlements of certain employees through defined-benefit plans. Two plans are operated for eligible Irish and UK employees. In general, on retirement, a member is entitled to a pension calculated at 1/60th of the final pensionable salary for each year of pensionable service, subject to a maximum of 40 years. These plans are fully funded on a discontinuance basis and the related pension costs and liabilities are assessed in accordance with the advice of a professionally qualified actuary. The investments of the plans at March 31, 2009 consisted of units held in independently administered funds. The most recent full actuarial valuations of the plans were carried out at June 30, 2007 in accordance with local regulatory requirements using the projected unit credit method, and the valuation reports are not available for public inspection.

 

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A separate annual actuarial valuation has been performed for the purposes of preparing these financial statements. The principal actuarial assumptions used for the purpose of this actuarial valuation were as follows:

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008    2007
     %    %    %

Discount rate used for Irish plan

   6.00    6.25    4.75

Discount rate used for UK plan

   6.30    6.60    5.35

Return on plan assets for Irish plan

   6.40    7.28    6.95

Return on plan assets for UK plan

   7.18    7.91    7.38

Rate of Euro inflation

   2.00    2.50    2.50

Rate of UK inflation

   3.00    3.25    2.75

Future pension increases in Irish plan

   0.00    0.00    0.00

Future pension increases in UK plan

   3.00    3.25    2.75

Future salary increases for Irish plan(a)

   3.00    3.50    3.50

Future salary increases for UK plan(a)

   4.00    4.25    3.75

 

(a) Future salary increases assumed to be 0% until 2012 in line with the company’s expected policy and 3% thereafter.

 

The Company uses certain mortality rate assumptions when calculating scheme obligations. The mortality assumptions of the Irish scheme have been based on the mortality table 62%/70% PNM/FL00 while the mortality assumptions of the UK scheme have been based on the mortality table PM/FA92 for calendar year 2035, both of which include sufficient allowance for future improvements in mortality rates. Retirement ages for scheme members are 60 for pilots and 65 for other staff.

 

The current life expectancies underlying the value of the scheme liabilities for the Irish scheme are as follows:

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008    2007

Retiring at age 60:

        

Male

   25.8    25.5    24.4

Female

   27.6    28.4    27.4

Retiring at age 65:

        

Male

   21.4    20.8    19.8

Female

   23.1    23.7    22.8

 

The current life expectancies underlying the value of the scheme liabilities for the UK scheme are as follows:

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008    2007

Retiring at age 60:

        

Male

   25.5    25.5    24.4

Female

   28.4    28.4    27.4

Retiring at age 65:

        

Male

   20.8    20.8    19.8

Female

   23.7    23.7    22.8

 

The amounts recognised in the consolidated balance sheets in respect of our defined benefit plans are as follows:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     €000     €000     €000  

Present value of benefit obligations

   (28,089   (26,989   (35,596

Fair value of plan assets

   17,932      24,969      28,616   
                  

Present value of net obligations

   (10,157   (2,020   (6,980

Related deferred tax asset

   1,270      252      872   
                  

Net pension (liability)

   (8,887   (1,768   (6,108
                  

 

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The amounts recognised in the consolidated income statements in respect of our defined-benefit plans are as follows:

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
    Year ended
March 31,

2008
    Year ended
March 31,

2007
 
     €000     €000     €000  

Included in payroll costs

      

Service cost

   764      1,303      1,722   
                  

Included in finance expense

      

Interest on pension scheme liabilities

   1,749      1,803      1,682   

Expected return on plan assets

   (1,876   (2,059   (1,697
                  

Net finance expense

   (127   (256   (15
                  

Net periodic pension cost

   637      1,047      1,707   
                  

 

Analysis of amounts included in the Statements of Recognised Income and Expense (“SORIE”);

 

      Year ended
March 31,
2009
    Year ended
March 31,
2008
    Year ended
March 31,
2007
 
     €000     €000     €000  

Actual return less expected return on pension scheme assets

   (9,760   (6,602   748   

Experience gains on scheme liabilities

   925      1,633      1,586   

Changes in assumptions underlying the present value of scheme liabilities

   255      10,109      (62
                  

Actuarial (losses)/gains recognised in the SORIE

   (8,580   5,140      2,272   

Related deferred tax asset/(liability)

   1,073      (643   (284
                  

Net actuarial (losses)/gains recognised in the SORIE

   (7,507   4,497      1,988   
                  

 

Changes in the present value of the defined-benefit obligation of the plans are as follows:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     €000     €000     €000  

Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year

   26,989      35,596      33,367   

Service cost

   764      1,303      1,722   

Interest cost

   1,749      1,803      1,682   

Plan participants’ contributions

   368      456      642   

Actuarial (gain)

   (450   (10,519   (1,783

Benefits paid

   (295   (427   (294

Foreign exchange rate changes

   (1,036   (1,223   260   
                  

Projected benefit obligation at end of year funded

   28,089      26,989      35,596   
                  

 

Changes in fair values of the plans’ assets are as follows:

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     €000     €000     €000  

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

   24,969      28,616      24,690   

Expected return on plan assets

   1,876      2,059      1,697   

Actual (losses)/gains on plan assets

   (9,031   (5,581   575   

Employer contribution

   775      867      1,133   

Plan participants’ contributions

   368      456      642   

Benefits paid

   (295   (427   (294

Foreign exchange rate changes

   (730   (1,021   173   
                  

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

   17,932      24,969      28,616   
                  

 

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The fair value of the plans’ assets at March 31 of each year is analysed as follows:

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008    2007
     €000    €000    €000

Equities

   11,982    18,399    22,949

Bonds

   3,720    3,554    3,173

Property

   601    1,134    1,150

Other assets

   1,629    1,882    1,344
              

Total fair value of plan assets

   17,932    24,969    28,616
              

 

The plans’ assets do not include any of our own financial instruments, nor any property occupied by, or other assets used by us.

 

The expected long-term rate of return on assets of 6.40% (2008: 7.28%) for the Irish scheme was calculated based on the assumptions of the following returns for each asset class: Equities 8.00% (2008: 8.25%); Bonds 3.50% (2008: 4.25%); Property 6.25% (2008: 6.75%); and Cash 2.0% (2008: 4.0%). The expected long-term rate of return on assets of 7.18% (2008: 7.91%) for the UK scheme was calculated based on the assumptions of the following returns for each asset class: Equities 8.00% (2008: 8.5%); Corporate and Overseas Bonds 6.30% (2008: 6.60%); and Other 2.00% (2008: 5.0%).

 

Since there are no suitable Euro-denominated AA-rated corporate bonds, the expected return is estimated by adding a suitable risk premium to the rate available from government bonds. The assumptions are based on long-term expectations at the beginning of the reporting period and are expected to be relatively stable.

 

The history of the plans for the current and prior periods is as follows:

 

     At March 31,
     2009    2008    2007    2006    2005
     €000    €000    €000    €000    €000

Difference between expected and actual return on assets

   (9,760)    (6,602)    748    3,531    952

Expressed as a percentage of scheme assets

   (54)%    (26)%    3%    14%    5%
                        

Experience gains/(losses) on scheme liabilities

   925    1,633    1,586    62    (242)

Expressed as a percentage of scheme liabilities

   3%    6%    4%    —      (1)%
                        

Total actuarial (losses)/gains

   (8,580)    (5,140)    2,272    2,659    (3,419)

Expressed as a percentage of scheme liabilities

   (31)%    (19)%    6%    8%    (12)%
                        

 

We expect to contribute approximately €0.7 million to our defined-benefit plans in 2010.

 

Defined-contribution schemes

 

The Company operates defined-contribution retirement plans in Ireland and the UK. The costs of these plans are charged to the consolidated income statement in the period in which they are incurred. The pension cost of these defined-contribution plans was €1.7 million in 2009 (2008: €1.0 million).

 

22 Earnings per share

 

     At March 31,
     2009     2008    2007

Basic (losses)/earnings per ordinary share (in Euro cents)

   (11.44   25.84    28.20
               

Diluted (losses)/earnings per ordinary share (in Euro cents)

   (11.44   25.62    27.97
               

Number of ordinary shares (in 000’s) used for EPS

       

Basic

   1,478,472      1,512,012    1,544,457
               

Diluted(a)

   1,478,472      1,524,935    1,557,503
               

 

(a) Details of share options in issue have been described more fully in Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

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Basic earnings per ordinary share (EPS) for Ryanair Holdings plc for the years ended March 31, 2009, March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007 has been computed by dividing the (loss)/profit attributable to shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year.

 

Diluted earnings per share takes account solely of the potential future exercise of share options granted under the Company’s share option schemes. For the 2009 fiscal year, there was no difference in the weighted average number of ordinary shares used for the basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share, as the effect of all potentially dilutive ordinary shares (2,750,554 outstanding) was anti-dilutive. For the 2008 fiscal year the weighted average number of shares in issue of 1,524,935,266 (2007: 1,557,502,826) includes weighted average share options assumed to be converted equal to 12,923,650 (2007: 13,045,390).

 

23 Commitments and contingencies

 

Commitments

 

In January 2002, the Company entered into a contract with Boeing (the “2002 Boeing contract”) whereby the Company agreed to purchase 100 new Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft, and received purchase rights to acquire a further 50 such aircraft. The 2002 Boeing contract was superseded by a contract entered into with Boeing in January 2003 (the “2003 Boeing contract”) whereby the Company agreed to purchase 125 new Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft, thus adding “firm” orders for 22 aircraft to the existing “firm” orders (100 “firm” orders, plus three options exercised) under the 2002 Boeing contract. In addition, the Company acquired purchase rights over a further 78 aircraft, bringing the number of option aircraft to 125.

 

In February 2005, the Company entered into another contract with Boeing (the “2005 Boeing contract”) whereby the Company agreed to purchase 70 new Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft and acquired additional purchase rights to acquire a further 70 such aircraft over a five-year period from 2006 to 2012. The aircraft to be delivered after January 1, 2005, arising from the 2002 and 2003 Boeing contracts, benefit from the discounts and concessions under the 2005 Boeing contract. In addition, the orders for the 89 “firm” aircraft still to be delivered at January 1, 2005 and the remaining additional purchase rights in respect of 123 aircraft granted under the 2002 and 2003 Boeing contracts are governed by the 2005 Boeing contract from January 2005.

 

In August 2006 the Company exercised 32 options under the 2005 contract whereby it increased its “firm” aircraft deliveries by this amount during fiscal 2009 (22) and 2010 (10).

 

In April 2007 the Company exercised 27 options under the 2005 contract whereby it will increase “firm” aircraft deliveries during fiscal 2010.

 

In June 2008, the Company exercised three options with Boeing under the terms of its 2005 contract. These “firm” Boeing 737-800 aircraft will be delivered in fiscal 2011.

 

In September 2008, the Company exercised four options with Boeing under the terms of its 2005 contract. These “firm” Boeing 737-800 aircraft will be delivered in fiscal 2011.

 

In October 2008, the Company exercised 10 options with Boeing under the terms of its 2005 contract. These “firm” Boeing 737-800 aircraft will be delivered in fiscal 2011.

 

In January 2009, the Company exercised 13 options with Boeing under the terms of its 2005 contract. These “firm” Boeing 737-800 aircraft will be delivered in fiscal 2011.

 

The table below details the firm aircraft delivery schedule at March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008 for the Company pursuant to the 2002 and 2005 Boeing contracts.

 

     Aircraft
Delivered at
March 31,
2009
   Firm Aircraft
Deliveries
Fiscal 2010-2012
   Total “Firm”
Aircraft
   Basic price
per aircraft
(U.S.$
million)
   Firm Aircraft
Deliveries
Fiscal
2009-2012 at
March 31,
2008

2002 Contract

   103    —      103    51    3

2005 Contract

   49    134    183    51    136
                      

Total

   152    134    286       139
                      

 

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The “Basic Price” (equivalent to a standard list price for an aircraft of this type) for each aircraft governed by the 2005 Boeing contract will be increased by (a) an estimated U.S.$900,000 per aircraft for certain “buyer furnished” equipment the Company has asked Boeing to purchase and install on each of the aircraft, and (b) an “Escalation Factor” designed to increase the Basic Price, as defined in the purchase agreement, of any individual aircraft by applying a formula which reflects increases in the published U.S. Employment Cost and Producer Price indices between the time the Basic Price was set and the period of six months prior to the delivery of such aircraft.

 

Boeing has granted Ryanair certain price concessions with regard to the Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft. These take the form of credit memoranda to the Company for the amount of such concessions, which the Company may apply toward the purchase of goods and services from Boeing or toward certain payments, in respect of the purchase of the aircraft under the various Boeing contracts.

 

Boeing and CFMI (the manufacturer of the engines to be fitted on the purchased aircraft) have also agreed to give the Company certain allowances in addition to providing other goods and services to the Company on concessionary terms. These credit memoranda and allowances will effectively reduce the price of each aircraft to the Company. As a result, the effective price of each aircraft will be significantly below the Basic Price mentioned above. At March 31, 2009, the total potential commitment to acquire all 134 “firm” aircraft, not taking such increases and decreases into account, will be up to U.S.$6.8 billion. (At March 31, 2008 the potential commitment was U.S.$7.0 billion to acquire 139 “firm” aircraft).

 

Total future minimum payments due under operating leases

 

     At March 31,
     Minimum
payments
   Present value
of minimum
payments
   Minimum
payments
   Present value
of minimum
payments
     2009    2009    2008    2008
     €000    €000    €000     

Due within one year

   85,799    78,849    78,210    71,875

Due between one and five years

   177,784    134,933    234,823    180,409

Due after five years

   29,095    17,195    22,243    13,371
                   

Total

   292,678    230,977    335,276    265,655
                   

 

The above table sets out the committed future cost of leasing 43 (2008: 35) Boeing 737-800 “next generation” aircraft at March 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

Commitments resulting from the use of derivative financial instruments by the Company are described in Notes 5 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

Contingencies

 

The Company is engaged in litigation arising in the ordinary course of its business. Management does not believe that any such litigation will individually or in aggregate have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the Company. Should the Company be unsuccessful in these litigation actions, management believes the possible liabilities then arising cannot be determined but are not expected to materially adversely affect the Company’s results of operations or financial position.

 

The Company has also entered into a series of interest rate swaps to hedge against fluctuations in interest rates for certain floating-rate financing arrangements. Cash deposits have been set aside as collateral to mitigate the counterparty risk of fluctuations on long-term derivative and other financing arrangements (restricted cash) (see Note 9 to the consolidated financial statements for further details). Additional numerical information on these swaps and on other derivatives held by the Company is set out in Notes 5 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

In February 2004, the European Commission ruled that Ryanair had received illegal state aid from the Walloon regional government in connection with its establishment of a low cost base at Brussels (Charleroi). Ryanair advised the regional government that it believed no money was repayable as the cost of establishing the base exceeded the amount determined to be illegal state aid. Ryanair also appealed the decision of the European Commission to the European Court of First Instance, requesting that the Court annul the decision on the basis

 

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that Ryanair’s agreement at Brussels (Charleroi) was consistent with agreements at similar privately owned airports and therefore did not constitute illegal state aid. The Company placed €4 million in an escrow account pending the outcome of this appeal. In December 2008, the CFI annulled the Commission’s decision against Charleroi Airport and Ryanair was repaid the €4 million that the Commission had claimed was illegal state aid. A further action taken by the Belgian government for €2.3 million has also been withdrawn.

 

24 Note to cash flow statements

 

     At March 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  
     €000     €000     €000  

Net (debt)/funds at beginning of year

   (96,941   335,935      294,243   
                  

Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents in year

   112,345      124,430      (92,585

Movement in financial assets > 3 months

   (2,873   (186,500   263,847   

Movement in restricted cash

   (830   33,623      54,768   

Net cash flow from (increase) in debt

   (131,945   (404,429   (184,338
                  

Movement in net funds resulting from cash flows

   (23,303   (432,876   41,692   
                  

Net funds at end of year

   (120,244   (96,941   335,935   
                  

Analysed as:

      

Cash and restricted cash

   2,278,196      2,169,554      2,198,001   

Total borrowings

   (2,398,440   (2,266,495   (1,862,066
                  

Net (debt)/funds

   (120,244   (96,941   335,935   
                  

 

Net funds arise when cash and liquid resources exceed debt.

 

25 Post-balance sheet events

 

On May 21, 2009, Ryanair proposed three resolutions to be put forward at the Aer Lingus annual general meeting held on June 5, 2009. The first resolution called for a reduction in the non-executive chairman’s fees from €200,000 to €35,000 per annum. The second resolution called for the non-executive directors’ fees to be reduced from €45,000 to €17,500 per person per annum (i.e. to rates consistent with those paid to the Aer Lingus chairman and board members during the fiscal year 2006). Aer Lingus allowed votes on these two proposed resolutions at the annual general meeting; however, both proposals were rejected by the shareholders. Ryanair’s third resolution, which sought to enable shareholders to approve in advance severance payments for executives that resign, was rejected by Aer Lingus and thus not voted upon by shareholders.

 

During the three-month period ended June 30, 2009, the Company has recognised a further impairment charge in the income statement of €13.5 million on its Aer Lingus shareholding reflecting the decline in the Aer Lingus share price from €0.59 at March 31, 2009 to €0.50 at June 30, 2009.

 

26 Subsidiary undertakings and related party transactions

 

The following are the principal subsidiary undertakings of Ryanair Holdings plc:

 

Name

  

Effective date of
acquisition/incorporation

  

Registered
Office

  

Nature of
Business

Ryanair Limited

   August 23, 1996    Corporate Headquarters    Airline operator
   (acquisition)    Dublin Airport   
      Co Dublin, Ireland.   

Darley Investments Limited(a)

   August 23, 1996    Corporate Headquarters    Investment holding
   (acquisition)    Dublin Airport    company
      Co Dublin, Ireland.   

Ryanair.com Limited(a)

   August 23, 1996    Corporate Headquarters    International data
   (acquisition)    Dublin Airport    processing services
      Co Dublin, Ireland.   

 

(a) These subsidiaries are wholly owned by Ryanair Limited, which is, in turn, wholly owned by Ryanair Holdings plc.

 

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All of the above subsidiaries are 100% owned by the Company. The shares owned by the Company comprise one class (ordinary shares) in respect of each subsidiary.

 

Information regarding all other subsidiaries will be filed with the Company’s next Irish Annual Return as provided for by Section 16(3) of the Irish Companies (Amendment) Act, 1986.

 

In accordance with the basis of consolidation policy, as described in Note 1 of these financial statements, the subsidiary undertakings referred to above have been consolidated in the financial statements of Ryanair Holdings plc for the years ended March 31, 2009 and March 31, 2008.

 

The total amount of remuneration paid to senior key management (defined as the executive team reporting to the Board of Directors) amounted to €8.2 million in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009, (2008: €7.6 million), the majority of which comprises short-term employee benefits.

 

     Year ended
March 31,

2009
   Year ended
March 31,

2008
     €000    €000

Basic salary and bonus

   4,860    4,964

Pension contributions

   264    296

Share-based compensation expense

   3,114    2,300
         
   8,238    7,560
         

 

27 Date of approval

 

The consolidated financial statements were approved by the board of directors of the Company on July 28, 2009.

 

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APPENDIX A

 

GLOSSARY

 

Certain of the terms included in the section on Selected Operating and Other Data and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F have the meanings indicated below and refer only to Ryanair’s scheduled passenger service.

 

Available Seat Miles (“ASMs”)

  Represents the number of seats available for scheduled passengers multiplied by the number of miles those seats were flown.

Average Booked Passenger Fare

  Represents the average fare paid by a scheduled fare-paying passenger who has booked a ticket.

Average Daily Flight Hour Utilization

  Represents the average number of flight hours flown in scheduled service per day per aircraft for the total fleet of operated aircraft.

Average Fuel Cost Per U.S. Gallon

  Represents the average cost per U.S. gallon of jet fuel for the fleet (including fueling charges) after giving effect to fuel hedging arrangements.

Average Length of Passenger Haul

  Represents the average number of miles traveled by a scheduled fare-paying passenger.

Ancillary Revenue per Booked Passenger

  Represents the average revenue earned per booked passenger flown from ancillary services.

Average Yield per ASM

  Represents the average scheduled flown passenger fare revenue for each available seat mile (ASM).

Average Yield per RPM

  Represents the average scheduled passenger fare revenue for each revenue passenger mile (RPM), or each mile a scheduled revenue passenger is flown.

Baggage Commissions

  Represents the commissions payable to airports on the revenue collected at the airports for excess baggage and airport baggage fees.

Booked Passenger Load Factor

  Represents the total number of seats sold as a percentage of total seat capacity on all sectors flown.

Break-even Load Factor

  Represents the number of RPMs at which scheduled passenger revenues would have been equal to operating expenses divided by ASMs (based on Average Yield per RPM). For the purposes of this calculation, the number of RPMs at which scheduled passenger revenues would have been equal to operating expenses is calculated by dividing operating expenses by Average Yield per RPM.

Cost Per ASM (“CASM”)

  Represents operating expenses (excluding non-charter ancillary costs) divided by ASMs.

Net Margin

  Represents profit after taxation as a percentage of total revenues.

Number of Airports Served

  Represents the number of airports to/from which the carrier offered scheduled service at the end of the period.

Number of Owned Aircraft Operated

  Represents the number of aircraft owned and operated at the end of the period.

Operating Margin

  Represents operating profit as a percentage of total revenues.

Part 145

  The European regulatory standard for aircraft maintenance established by the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Revenue Passenger Miles (“RPMs”)

  Represents the number of miles flown by booked fare-paying passengers.

Revenue Passengers Booked

  Represents the number of scheduled fare-paying passengers booked.

Sectors Flown

  Represents the number of scheduled passenger flight sectors flown.

 

A-1

EX-1.1 2 dex11.htm MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION OF RYANAIR HOLDINGS Memorandum and Articles of Association of Ryanair Holdings

Exhibit 1.1

THE COMPANIES ACTS, 1963 to 1990

 

 

PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES

 

 

MEMORANDUM

and

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

of

RYANAIR HOLDINGS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY

 

 

Incorporated 5th June, 1996

 

 

(As amended by Special Resolutions

passed on:

2nd day of July, 1996,

24th day of July, 1996,

23rd day of August, 1996,

12th May, 1997, 14th September, 1999, 25th September, 2001, 21st September, 2006, 14th December 2006, 2nd February, 2007, and 18TH day of September, 2008 and by Ordinary Resolution on the 15th May 1997)

A & L Goodbody

IFSC

North Wall Quay

Dublin 1


COMPANIES ACTS, 1963 to 1990

 

 

PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES

 

 

MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION

of

RYANAIR HOLDINGS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY

 

 

 

1 The name of the company is RYANAIR HOLDINGS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY.

 

2 The company is to be a public limited company.

 

3 The objects for which the company is established are:

 

  3.1 To carry on the business of an investment and holding company in all its branches, and to acquire by purchase, lease, concession, grant, licence or otherwise such businesses, options, rights, privileges, lands, buildings, leases, underleases, stocks, shares, debentures, debenture stock, bonds, obligations, securities, reversionary interests, annuities, policies of assurance and other property and rights and interests in property as the company shall deem fit and generally to hold, manage, develop, lease, sell or dispose of the same; and to vary any of the investments of the company, to act as trustees of any deeds constituting or securing any debentures, debenture stock or other securities or obligations; to establish, carry on, develop and extend investments and holdings and to sell, dispose of or otherwise turn the same to account and to coordinate the policy and administration of any companies of which this company is a member or which are in any manner controlled by or connected with the company.


  (b) To exercise and enforce all rights and powers conferred to or incident upon the ownership of any shares, stock obligations or other securities acquired by the Company including without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing all such powers of veto or control as may be conferred by virtue of the holding by the company of such special proportion of the issued or nominal amount thereof and to provide managerial and other executive, supervisory and consultant services for or in relation to any company in which the company is interested upon such terms as may be thought fit.

 

  3.2 To carry on any other business, except the issuing of policies of insurance, which may seem to the company capable of being conveniently carried on in connection with the above, or calculated directly or indirectly to enhance the value of or render profitable any of the company’s property or rights.

 

  3.3 To invest any monies of the company in such investments and in such manner as may from time to time be determined, and to hold, sell or deal with such investments and generally to purchase, take on lease or in exchange or otherwise acquire any real and personal property and rights or privileges.

 

  3.4 To subscribe for, take, purchase or otherwise acquire and hold shares or other interests in, or securities of any other company having objects altogether or in part similar to those of this company or carrying on any business capable of being carried on so as, directly or indirectly, to benefit this company.

 

  3.5 To develop and turn to account any land acquired by the company or in which it is interested and in particular by laying out and preparing the same for building purposes, constructing, altering, pulling down, decorating, maintaining, fitting up and improving buildings and conveniences, and by planting, paving, draining, farming, cultivating, letting on building lease or building agreement and by advancing money to and entering into contracts and arrangements of all kinds with builders, tenants and others.

 

  3.6 To acquire and undertake the whole or any part of the business, property, goodwill and assets of any person, firm or company carrying on or proposing to carry on any of the businesses which the company is authorised to carry on, or which can be conveniently carried on in connection with the same, or may seem calculated directly or indirectly to benefit the company.

 

  3.7 To employ the funds of the company in the development and expansion of the business of the company and all or any of its subsidiary or associated companies and in any other company whether now existing or hereafter to be


formed and engaged in any like business of the company or any of its subsidiary or associated companies or of any other industry ancillary thereto or which can conveniently be carried on in connection therewith.

 

  3.8 To lend money to such persons or companies either with or without security and upon such terms as may seem expedient.

 

  3.9 To borrow or otherwise raise money or carry out any other means of financing, whether or not by the issue of stock or other securities, and to enter into or issue interest and currency hedging and swap agreements, forward rate agreements, interest and currency futures or options and other forms of financial instruments, and to purchase, redeem or pay off any of the foregoing.

 

  3.10 To secure the payment of money or other performance of financial obligations in such manner as the company shall think fit, whether or not by the issue of debentures or debenture stock, perpetual or otherwise, charged upon all or any of the company’s property, present or future, including its uncalled capital.

 

  3.11 To adopt such means of making known the company and its products and services as may seem expedient.

 

  3.12 To sell, improve, manage, develop, exchange, lease, mortgage, enfranchise, dispose of, turn to account or otherwise deal with all or any part of the property, undertaking, rights or assets of the company and for such consideration as the company might think fit. Generally to purchase, take on lease or in exchange or otherwise acquire any real and personal property and rights or privileges.

 

  3.13 To acquire and carry on any business carried on by a subsidiary or a holding company of the company or another subsidiary of a holding company of the company.

 

  3.14 To provide services of any kind including the carrying on of advisory, consultancy, brokerage and agency business of any kind.

 

  3.15 To guarantee, grant indemnities in respect of, support or secure, whether by personal covenant or by mortgaging or charging all or any part of the undertaking, property and assets (present and future) and uncalled capital of the company, or by both such methods, the performance of the contracts or obligations of and the repayment or payment of the principal amounts of and premiums, interest and dividends on any securities of any person, firm or company, including (without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing) any company which is for the time being the company’s holding company as defined by section 155 of the Companies Act, 1963, or another subsidiary as defined by the said section of the company’s holding company or otherwise


associated with the company in business notwithstanding the fact that the company may not receive any consideration, advantage or benefit, direct or indirect from entering into such guarantee or other arrangement or transaction contemplated herein.

 

  3.16 To amalgamate with any other company.

 

  3.17 To apply for, purchase or otherwise acquire any patents, brevets d’invention, licences, trade marks, technology and know-how and the like conferring any exclusive or non-exclusive or limited right to use or any secret or other information as to any invention or technology which may seem capable of being used, for any of the purposes of the company or the acquisition of which may seem calculated directly or indirectly to benefit the company, and to use, exercise, develop or grant licences in respect of or otherwise turn to account the property rights or information so acquired.

 

  3.18 To enter into partnership or into any arrangement for sharing profits, union of interests, co-operation, joint venture or otherwise with any person or company or engage in any business or transaction capable of being conducted so as directly or indirectly to benefit the company.

 

  3.19 To grant pensions or gratuities (to include death benefits) to any officers or employees or ex-officers or ex-employees of the company, or its predecessors in business or the relations, families or dependants of any such persons, and to establish or support any non-contributory or contributory pension or superannuation funds, any associations, institutions, clubs, buildings and housing schemes, funds and trusts which may be considered calculated to benefit any such persons or otherwise advance the interests of the company or of its members.

 

  3.20 To promote any company or companies for the purpose of acquiring all or any of the property and liabilities of this company or for any other purpose which may seem directly or indirectly calculated to benefit this company.

 

  3.21 To remunerate any person or company for services rendered or to be rendered in placing or assisting to place or guaranteeing the placing of any of the shares in the company’s capital or any debentures, debenture stock or other securities of the company, or in or about the formation or promotion of the company or the conduct of its business.

 

  3.22 To draw, make, accept, endorse, discount, execute and issue promissory notes, bills of exchange, bills of lading, warrants, debentures, letters of credit and other negotiable or transferable instruments.

 

  3.23 To undertake and execute any trusts the undertaking whereof may seem desirable, whether gratuitously or otherwise.

 

  3.24 To procure the company to be registered or recognised in any country or place.


  3.25 To promote freedom of contract and to counteract and discourage interference therewith, to join any trade or business federation, union or association, with a view to promoting the company’s business and safeguarding the same.

 

  3.26 To do all or any of the above things in any part of the world as principal, agent, contractor, trustee or otherwise, and by or through trustees, agents or otherwise and either alone or in conjunction with others.

 

  3.27 To distribute any of the property of the company in specie among the members.

 

  3.28 To do all such other things as the company may think incidental or conducive to the attainment of the above objects or any of them.

NOTE A:          The objects specified in each paragraph of this clause shall, except where otherwise expressed in such paragraph, be in no wise limited or restricted by reference to, or inference from, the terms of any other paragraph.

NOTE B:           It is hereby declared that the word “company” in this clause (except where it refers to this company) will be deemed to include any partnership or other body of persons, whether or not incorporated and whether formed in Ireland or elsewhere.

 

4 The liability of the members is limited.

 

5 The share capital of the Company is €10,668,000 divided into 1,680,000,000 Ordinary Shares of €0.635 euro cent each.

We, the several persons whose names and addresses are subscribed, wish to be formed into a company in pursuance of this memorandum of association, and we agree to take the number of shares in the capital of the company set opposite our respective names.

 

   

Names, Addresses and Descriptions

of Subscribers

      

Number of shares

taken by each

Subscriber

 

            
 

Goodbody Subscriber One Limited,

1 Earlsfort Centre,

Hatch Street,

Dublin 2.

 

       

One

 

     


   Limited Liability Company              
  

Goodbody Subscriber Two Limited,

1 Earlsfort Centre,

Hatch Street,

Dublin 2.

        One      
    

Limited Liability Company

 

                     
   Dated 24th May, 1996.              

 

Witness to the above signatures:
                                                 Cecilia Kelly,
                                                 1 Earlsfort Centre,
                                                 Hatch Street,
                                                 Dublin 2.
                                                 Secretary


Companies Acts, 1963 to 1990

COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

OF

RYANAIR HOLDINGS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY

 

Part I - Preliminary

   1.    Interpretation

Part II - Share Capital and Rights

   2.    Share Capital
   3.    Rights of Shares on issue
   4.    Redeemable preference Shares
   5.    Variation of rights
   6.    Trusts not recognised
   7.    Disclosure of interests
   8.    Allotment of Shares
   9.    Payment of commission
   10.    Payment by instalments

Part III - Share Certificates

   11.    Issue of certificates
   12.    Balance and exchange certificates
   13.    Replacement of certificates

Part IV - Lien on Shares

   14.    Extent of lien
   15.    Power of sale
   16.    Power to effect transfer
   17.    Proceeds of sale


Part V - Calls on Shares and Forfeiture

   18.    Making of calls
   19.    Time of call
   20.    Liability of joint Holders
   21.    Interest on calls
   22.    Amounts treated as calls
   23.    Power to differentiate
   24.    Interest on moneys advanced
   25.    Notice requiring payment
   26.    Power of disposal
   27.    Effect of forfeiture
   28.    Statutory declaration
   29.    Non-Payment of sums due on Share issues

Part VI - Conversion of Shares into Stock

   30.    Conversion of Shares into stock

Part VII - Transfer of Shares

   31.    Transfer of stock
   32.    Rights of stockholders
   33.    Form of instrument of transfer
   34.    Execution of instrument of transfer
   35.    Refusal to register transfers
   36.    Procedure on refusal
   37.    Closing of transfer books
   38.    Absence of registration fees
   39.    Retention of transfer instruments
   40.    Renunciation of allotment
   41.    Limitations on Share ownership

Part VIII - Transmission of Shares

   42.    Death of member
   43.    Transmission on death or bankruptcy
   44.    Rights before registration

Part IX - Alteration of Share Capital

   45.    Increase of capital
   46.    Consolidation, sub-division and cancellation of capital
   47.    Fractions on consolidation
   48.    Reduction of capital
   49.    Purchase of own Shares


Part X - General Meetings

   50.    Annual general meetings
   51.    Extraordinary general meetings
   52.    Convening general meetings
   53.    Notice of general meetings

Part XI - Proceedings at General Meetings

   54.    Quorum for general meetings
   55.    Special business
   56.    Chairman of general meetings
   57.    Directors’ and Auditors’ right to attend general meetings
   58.    Adjournment of general meetings
   59.    Determination of resolutions
   60.    Amendments to resolutions
   61.    Entitlement to demand poll
   62.    Taking of a poll
   63.    Votes of members
   64.    Chairman’s casting vote
   65.    Voting by joint Holders
   66.    Voting by incapacitated Holders
   67.    Default in payment of calls
   68.    Restriction of voting and other rights
   69.    Time for objection to voting
   70.    Appointment of proxy
   71.    Bodies corporate acting by representatives at meetings
   72.    Delivery and receipt of an appointment of proxy
   72A.    Crest electronic proxy
   73.    Effect of proxy appointments
   74.    Effect of revocation of a proxy or of an authorisation

Part XII - Directors

   75.    Number of Directors
   76.    Share qualification
   77.    Ordinary remuneration of Directors
   78.    Special remuneration of Directors
   79.    Expenses of Directors
   80.    Alternate Directors

Part XIII - Powers of Directors

   81.    Directors’ powers
   82.    Power to delegate


   83.    Appointment of attorneys
   84.    Local management
   85.    Borrowing powers
   86.    Execution of negotiable instruments
   87.    Provision for employees
Part XIV - Appointment and Retirement of Directors    88.    Retirement by rotation
   89.    Deemed reappointment
   90.    Eligibility for appointment
   91.    Appointment of additional Directors
Part XV - Disqualification and Removal of Directors    92.    Disqualification of Directors
   93.    Removal of Directors

Part XVI - Directors’ Offices and

Interests

   94.    Executive offices
   95.    Disclosure of interests by Directors
   96.    Directors’ interests
   97.    Restriction on Directors’ voting
   98.    Entitlement to grant pensions
Part XVII - Proceedings of Directors    99.    Convening and regulation of Directors’ meetings
   100.    Quorum for Directors’ meetings
   101.    Voting at Directors’ meetings
   102.    Electronic Meetings
   103.    Chairman of the board of Directors
   104.    Validity of acts of Directors
   105.    Directors’ resolutions or other documents in writing

Part XVIII - The Secretary

   106.    Appointment of Secretary

Part XIX - The Seal

   107.    Use of Seal
   108.    Seal for use abroad
   109.    Signature of sealed instruments
Part XX - Dividends and Reserves    110.    Declaration of dividends
   111.    Scrip dividends
   112.    Interim and fixed dividends
   113.    Payment of dividends
   114.    Deductions from dividends
   115.    Dividends in specie


   116.    Payment of dividends by post
   117.    Dividends not to bear interest
   118.    Payment to Holders on a particular date
   119.    Unclaimed dividends
   120.    Reserves

Part XXI - Accounts

   121.    Accounts

Part XXII - Capitalisation of

Profits or Reserves

   122.    Capitalisation of profits and reserves
   123.    Capitalisation and use of non-distributable profits and reserves
   124.    Implementation of capitalisation issues

Part XXIII - Notices

   125.    Notices in writing or by electronic communication
   126.    Service of notices
   127.    Notices to members
   128.    Service on joint Holders
   129.    Service on transfer or transmission of Shares
   130.    Signature to notices
   131.    Deemed receipt of notices
   131A.    Crest electronic proxy

Part XXIV - Winding up

   132.    Distribution on winding up
   133.    Distribution in specie

Part XXV - Miscellaneous

   134.    Minutes of meetings
   135.    Inspection
   136.    Secrecy
   137.    Destruction of records
   138.    Untraced Shareholders
   139.    Indemnity


Companies Acts, 1963 to 1990

 

 

A PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES

 

 

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

OF

RYANAIR HOLDINGS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY

Part I - Preliminary

 

1. Interpretation

 

  (a) The regulations contained in Table A in the First Schedule to the Companies Act, 1963 shall not apply to the Company.

 

  (b) In these Articles the following expressions shall have the following meanings:

 

“the Acts”    the Companies Acts, 1963 to 1990;
“the 1963 Act”    the Companies Act, 1963;
“the 1983 Act”    the Companies (Amendment) Act, 1983;
“the 1990 Act”    the Companies Act, 1990;
“these Articles”    these articles of association as from time to time and for the time being in force;

“Associated

Company”

  

 

any company which for the time being is a subsidiary or a holding company of the Company, is a subsidiary of a holding company of the Company or is a company in which the Company or any of such companies as aforesaid shall for the time being hold shares entitling the holder thereof to exercise at least one-fifth of the


   votes at any general meeting of such company (not being voting rights which arise only in specified circumstances);
“the Auditors”    the auditors for the time being of the Company;
“the Board”    the board of Directors
“Clear Days”    in relation to the period of a notice, that period excluding the day when the notice is given or deemed to be given and the day for which it is given or on which it is to take effect or is deemed to take effect;
“the Company”    the company whose name appears in the head of these Articles;
“the Directors”    the directors for the time being of the Company;
“EU National”    a national of a member state of the European Union;

“Electronic

Communication”

  

 

has the same meaning as under the Electronic Commerce Act, 2000 (as amended or supplemented from time to time); and includes, without limitation and subject to the discretion of Directors the availability of any such information (including notices and any other documents) on a website or by delivering, giving or sending the same by electronic mail.

“the Group”    the Company and its subsidiaries from time to time and for the time being;
“the Holder”    in relation to any Share, the Member whose name is entered in the Register as the holder of the Share;
“holding company”    in relation to a company, a company of which such company is a subsidiary;
“Interest”    means any interest whatsoever in Shares (of any size) which would be taken into account in deciding whether a notification to the Company would be required under Chapter 2 of Part IV of the 1990 Act;
“The Irish Stock Exchange”    The Irish Stock Exchange Limited or any successor thereto;


“Member”    a member of the Company as defined in Section 31 of the 1963 Act;
“Nasdaq”    the national association of securities dealers automated quotation national market system;
“the Office”    the registered office for the time being of the Company;
“Ordinary Shares”    ordinary Shares of IR4p each in the capital of the Company;
“the Register”    the register of Members to be kept by the Company as required by the Acts;
“the Seal”    the common seal of the Company or (where relevant) the official securities seal kept by the Company pursuant to the Acts;
“the Secretary”    any person appointed to perform the duties of the Secretary of the Company;
“Shares”    means any Shares (whether issued or unissued) in the capital of the Company
“the State”    the Republic of Ireland;

“Stock Exchange

Nominee”

  

 

the meaning given to that expression by Section 1 of the Companies (Amendment) Act, 1977;

“The Stock Exchanges”   

 

The Irish Stock Exchange, Nasdaq and any other exchange on which Shares are listed from time to time;

“subsidiary”    a subsidiary within the meaning of Section 155 of the 1963 Act;
“the United Kingdom”    the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland;
“warrants to subscribe”   

 

means a warrant or certificate or similar document indicating the right of the registered holder thereof (other than under a share option scheme for employees) to subscribe for Shares in the Company.


  (c) Subject to Article 131A expressions in these Articles referring to writing shall be construed, unless the contrary intention appears, as including references to printing, lithography, photography and to electronic form and any other modes of representing or reproducing words in a visible form. Expressions in these Articles referring to execution of any document shall include any mode of execution whether under seal or under hand.

 

  (d) Unless specifically defined herein or the context otherwise requires, words or expressions contained in these Articles shall bear the same meaning as in the Acts but excluding any statutory modification thereof not in force when these Articles become binding on the Company.

 

  (e) The headings and captions included in these Articles are inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not be considered a part of or affect the construction or interpretation of these Articles.

 

  (f) References in these Articles to any enactment or any section or provision thereof shall mean such enactment, section or provision as the same may be amended and may be from time to time and for the time being in force.

 

  (g) In these Articles the masculine gender shall include the feminine and neuter, and vice versa, and the singular number shall include the plural and vice versa, and words importing persons shall include firms and companies.

 

  (h) References in these Articles to euro or cent shall mean the currency, for the time being, of the State.

 

  (i) References in these Articles to dollars or cents or $ shall mean the currency for the time being of the United States of America.

Part II - Share Capital and Rights

 

2. Share Capital

The share capital of the Company is €10,668,000 divided into 1,680,000,000 Ordinary Shares of €0.635 euro cent each.

 

3. Rights of Shares on issue

Without prejudice to any special rights previously conferred on the Holders of any existing Shares or class of Shares and subject to the provisions of the Acts, any Share may be issued with such rights or restrictions as the Company may by ordinary resolution determine.


4. Redeemable Shares

Subject to the provisions of the Acts, any Shares may be issued on the terms that they are, or at the option of the Company are, liable to be redeemed on such terms and in such manner as the Company may by special resolution determine.


5. Variation of rights

 

  (a) Whenever the share capital is divided into different classes of shares, the rights attached to any class may be varied or abrogated with the consent in writing of the Holders of three-fourths in nominal amount of the issued Shares of that class or with the sanction of a special resolution passed at a separate general meeting of the Holders of the Shares of the class (but not otherwise), and may be so varied or abrogated either whilst the Company is a going concern or during or in contemplation of a winding-up. The quorum at any such separate general meeting, other than an adjourned meeting, shall be two persons holding or representing by proxy at least one-third in nominal amount of the issued Shares of the class in question and the quorum at an adjourned meeting shall be one person holding Shares of the class in question or his proxy.

 

  (b) The rights conferred upon the Holders of the Shares of any class issued with preferred or other rights shall not, unless otherwise expressly provided by these Articles or the terms of the issue of the Shares of that class, be deemed to be varied by the creation or issue of further Shares ranking pari passu therewith or subordinate thereto.

 

6. Trusts not recognised

Except as required by law, no person shall be recognised by the Company as holding any Share upon any trust, and the Company shall not be bound by or be compelled in anyway to recognise (even when having notice thereof) any equitable, contingent, future or partial interest in any Share or any interest in any fractional part of a Share or (except only as by these Articles or by law otherwise provided) any other rights in respect of any Share except an absolute right to the entirety thereof in the Holder.

 

7. Disclosure of Interests

 

  (a) For the purposes of this Article 7:-

“Deemed Voting Concert Party Interest” means an agreement or arrangement between two or more persons with respect to, or to the exercise of, voting rights attaching to Shares and which is likely to result in those rights being exercised so as to influence or to control the policy of the Company or the management of its affairs which the Directors have deemed to be a Deemed Voting Concert Party Interest for the purposes of this Article 7 and, where the Directors so resolve, each of the persons who is party to such agreement or arrangement shall be deemed (for the purposes of this Article 7) to be interested in all the Shares to which the voting rights in question are attached and, in this definition, references to an arrangement include references to an understanding or mutual expectation, whether formal or informal and whether or not legally binding.


“Disclosure Notice” means a notice served pursuant to Article 7(b) below;

“Interest” means an interest (of any size) in the Relevant Share Capital which would be taken into account in deciding whether a notification to the Company would be required under Chapter 2 of Part IV of the 1990 Act but shall for all purposes include (the “Included Interests”) (i) rights to subscribe for or convert into, or entitlements to acquire rights to subscribe for or convert into, shares which would on issue or conversion (as the case may be) be comprised in the Relevant Share Capital; (ii) the interests referred to in Section 78(l)(a), (c) and (g) of the 1990 Act except those of a bare or custodian trustee and of a simple trustee and (iii) any Deemed Voting Concert Party Interest; and “interested” shall be construed accordingly;

“Relevant Share Capital” means the relevant share capital of the Company (as that expression is defined in Section 67(2) of the 1990 Act);

“Share” means any share comprised in Relevant Share Capital.

 

  (b) The Directors may by notice in writing require any Member, or other person appearing to be interested or to have been interested in Shares, to disclose to the Company in writing such information as the Directors shall require relating to the ownership of or any Interest in Shares as lies within the knowledge of such Member or other person (supported if the Directors so require by a statutory declaration and/or by independent evidence) including (without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing):-

 

  (i) any information which the Company is entitled to seek pursuant to Section 81 of the 1990 Act; or

 

  (ii) any information which the Directors shall deem necessary or desirable in order to determine whether any Shares are Affected Shares (as defined in Article 41) or are capable of being Affected Shares (as so defined) or whether it is necessary to take steps to protect any Licence (as so defined) or otherwise in relation to the application or potential application of Article 41.

 

  (c) Where the Member on which a Disclosure Notice is served is a Depositary (as defined in Article 41) acting in its capacity as such, the obligations of the Depositary as a Member pursuant to this Article shall be limited to disclosing to the Company in accordance with this Article such information relating to the ownership of or Interests in the Shares in question as has been recorded by it pursuant to the terms entered into between the Depositary and the Company provided that nothing in this Article shall in any other way restrict the powers of the Directors under this Article.


The Directors may give any number of Disclosure Notices pursuant to Article 7(b) above to the same Member or other person in respect of the same Shares.

 

  (e) The Directors may serve notice pursuant to the terms of this Article irrespective of whether or not the person on whom it shall be served may be dead, bankrupt, insolvent or otherwise incapacitated and no such incapacity or any unavailability of information or inconvenience or hardship in obtaining the same shall be a satisfactory reason for failure to comply with any such notice, provided that if the Directors in their absolute discretion think fit, they may waive compliance in whole or in part with any notice given under this Article in respect of a Share in any case of bona fide unavailability of information or genuine hardship or where they otherwise think fit but no such waiver shall prejudice or affect in any way any non-compliance not so waived whether by the person concerned or any other person appearing to the Directors to be interested in the Shares or by any person to whom a notice may be given at any time.

 

  (f) The provisions of Articles 125 to 131A inclusive shall apply to the service of notices required by this Article to be served.

 

  (g) Any resolution or determination of, or decision or exercise of any discretion or power by the Directors under or pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall be final and conclusive and things done by or on behalf of, or on the authority of, the Directors pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this Article shall be conclusive and binding on all persons concerned and shall not be open to challenge, whether as to validity or otherwise on any ground whatsoever. The Directors shall not be required to give any reasons for any decision, determination or declaration taken or made in accordance with this Article.

 

  (h) The provisions of this Article are in addition to, and do not limit, any other right or power of the Company or the Directors, including any right vested in the Company or the Directors by the Acts.

 

8. Allotment of Shares

 

  (a) The unissued Shares shall be at the disposal of the Directors and (subject to the provisions of these Articles and the Acts) they may allot, grant options over, deal with or otherwise dispose (with or without conferring a right of renunciation) of them on such terms and conditions and at such times as they may consider to be in the best interests of the Company and the Members but so that no Share shall be issued at a discount and so that, where Shares are to be allotted and issued, the amount payable on application on each Share shall not be less than one-quarter of the nominal amount of the Share and the whole of any premium payable thereon.


  (b) Without prejudice to the generality of the powers conferred on the Directors by the other provisions of this Article, the Directors may grant from time to time options to subscribe for unallotted Shares in the capital of the Company to persons in the service or employment of or Directors of the Company or any subsidiary of the Company on such terms and subject to such conditions as may be approved from time to time by the Directors or any committee thereof appointed by the Directors for the purpose of such approval.

 

  (c) The Company may issue warrants to subscribe (by whatever name they are called) to any person to whom the Company has granted the right to subscribe for Shares in the Company (other than under a share option scheme for employees) certifying the right of the registered holder thereof to subscribe for Shares in the Company upon such terms and conditions as those upon which the right may have been granted.

 

9. Payment of commission

The Company may exercise the powers of paying commissions conferred or permitted by the Acts. Subject to the provisions of the Acts, any such commission may be satisfied by the payment of cash or by the allotment of fully or partly paid Shares or partly in one way and partly in the other. On any issue of Shares the Company may also pay such brokerage as may be lawful.

 

10. Payment by instalments

If by the conditions of allotment of any Share the whole or part of the amount or issue price thereof shall be payable by instalments, every such instalment when due shall be paid to the Company by the person who for the time being shall be the Holder of the Share.

Part III - Share Certificates

 

11. Issue of certificates

Every Member (except a Stock Exchange Nominee in respect of whom the Company is not by law required to complete and have ready for delivery a certificate) shall be entitled without payment to receive within two months after allotment or lodgement of a transfer to him of the Shares in respect of which he is so registered (or within such other period as the conditions of issue shall provide) one certificate for all the Shares of each class held by him or several certificates each for one or more of his Shares upon payment for every certificate after the first of such reasonable out of pocket expenses as the Directors may determine provided that the Company shall not be bound to issue more than one certificate for Shares held jointly by several persons and


delivery of a certificate to one joint Holder shall be a sufficient delivery to all of them. The Company shall not be bound to register more than four persons as joint Holders of any Share (except in the case of executors or trustees of a deceased Member). Every certificate shall be sealed with the Seal and shall specify the number, class and distinguishing number (if any) of the Shares to which it relates and the amount or respective amounts paid up thereon.

 

12. Balance and exchange certificates

 

  (a) Where some only of the Shares comprised in a share certificate are transferred the old certificate shall be cancelled and the new certificate for the balance of such Shares shall be issued in lieu without charge.

 

  (b) Any two or more certificates representing Shares of any one class held by any Member at his request may be cancelled and a single new certificate for such Shares issued in lieu, without charge unless the Directors otherwise determine. If any Member shall surrender for cancellation a share certificate representing shares held by him and request the Company to issue in lieu two or more Share certificates representing such Shares in such proportions as he may specify, the Directors may comply, if they think fit, with such request, subject to the payment by him of such charge as may be determined by the Directors.

 

13. Replacement of certificates

If a share certificate is defaced, worn out, lost, stolen or destroyed, it may be replaced on such terms (if any) as to evidence and indemnity and payment of any exceptional expenses incurred by the Company as the Directors may determine but otherwise free of charge, and (in the case of defacement or wearing out) on delivery up of the old certificate.

Part IV - Lien on Shares

 

14. Extent of lien

The Company shall have a first and paramount lien on every Share (not being a fully paid Share) for all moneys (whether presently payable or not) payable at a fixed time or called in respect of that Share. The Directors, at any time, may declare any Share to be wholly or in part exempt from the provisions of this Article. The Company’s lien on a Share shall extend to all moneys payable in respect of it.


15. Power of sale

The Company may sell in such manner as the Directors determine any Share on which the Company has a lien if a sum in respect of which the lien exists is presently payable and is not paid within fourteen Clear Days after notice demanding payment, and stating that if the notice is not complied with the Shares may be sold, has been given to the Holder of the Share or to the person entitled to it by reason of the death or bankruptcy of the Holder.

 

16. Power to effect transfer

To give effect to a sale the Directors may take such steps as the Directors consider are necessary or desirable in order to effect such sale and, for this purpose, may authorise some person to execute an instrument of transfer of the Shares sold to, or in accordance with the directions of, the purchaser. The transferee shall be entered in the Register as the Holder of the Shares comprised in any such transfer and he shall not be bound to see to the application of the purchase moneys nor shall his title to the Shares be affected by any irregularity in or invalidity of the proceedings in reference to the sale, and after the name of the transferee has been entered in the Register, the remedy of any person aggrieved by the sale shall be in damages only and against the Company exclusively.

 

17. Proceeds of sale

The net proceeds of the sale, after payment of the costs relating thereto, shall be applied in payment of so much of the sum for which the lien exists as is presently payable and any residue (upon surrender to the Company for cancellation of the certificate for the Shares sold or an indemnity in a form which is satisfactory to the Directors and subject to a like lien for any moneys not presently payable as existed upon the Shares before the sale) shall be paid to the person entitled to the Shares at the date of the sale.

Part V - Calls on Shares and Forfeiture

 

18. Making of calls

Subject to the terms of allotment, the Directors may make calls upon the Members in respect of any moneys unpaid on their Shares and each Member (subject to receiving at least fourteen Clear Days’ notice specifying when and where payment is to be


made) shall pay to the Company as required by the notice the amount called on his Shares. A call may be required to be paid by instalments. A call may be revoked before receipt by the Company of a sum due thereunder, in whole or in part, and payment of a call may be postponed in whole or in part. A person upon whom a call is made shall remain liable for such call notwithstanding the subsequent transfer of the Shares in respect of which the call was made.

 

19. Time of call

A call shall be deemed to have been made at the time when the resolution of the Directors authorising the call was passed.

 

20. Liability of joint Holders

The joint Holders of a Share shall be jointly and severally liable to pay all calls in respect thereof.

 

21. Interest on calls

If a call remains unpaid after it has become due and payable the person from whom it is due and payable shall pay interest on the amount unpaid from the day it became due until it is paid at the rate fixed by the terms of allotment of the Share or in the notice of the call but the Directors may waive payment of the interest wholly or in part.

 

22. Amounts treated as calls

An amount payable in respect of a Share on allotment or at any fixed date, whether in respect of nominal value or by way of premium, shall be deemed to be a call and if it is not paid the provisions of these Articles shall apply as if that amount had become due and payable by virtue of a call duly made and notified.

 

23. Power to differentiate

Subject to the terms of allotment, the Directors may make arrangements on the issue of Shares for different terms to apply as between the Holders in relation to the amounts and times of payment of calls on their Shares.

 

24. Interest on moneys advanced

The Directors, if they think fit, may receive from any Member willing to advance same all or any part of the moneys uncalled and unpaid upon any Shares held by him,


and upon all or any of the moneys so advanced may pay (until the same would, but for such advance, become payable) interest at such rate, not exceeding (unless the company in general meeting otherwise directs) 15 per cent. per annum, as may be agreed upon between the Directors and the Member paying such sum in advance.

 

25. Notice requiring payment

 

  (a) If a Member fails to pay any call or instalment of a call on the day appointed for payment thereof, the Directors, at any time thereafter during such times as any part of the call or instalment remains unpaid, may serve a notice on him requiring payment of so much of the call or instalment as is unpaid together with any interest which may have accrued.

The notice shall name a further day (not earlier than the expiration of fourteen Clear Days from the date of service of the notice) on or before which the payment required by the notice is to be made, and shall state that in the event of non-payment at or before the time appointed the Shares in respect of which the call was made will be liable to be forfeited.

 

  (c) If the requirements of any such notice as aforesaid are not complied with then, at any time thereafter before the payment required by the notice has been made, any Shares in respect of which the notice has been given may be forfeited by a resolution of the Directors to that effect. The forfeiture shall include all dividends or other moneys payable in respect of the forfeited Shares and not paid before forfeiture. The Directors may accept a surrender of any Share liable to be forfeited hereunder.

 

  (d) On the trial or hearing of any action for the recovery of any money due for any call it shall be sufficient to prove that the name of the Member sued is entered in the Register as the Holder, or one of the Holders, of the Shares in respect of which such debt accrued, that the resolution making the call is duly recorded in the minute book and that notice of such call was duly given to the Member sued, in accordance with these Articles, and it shall not be necessary to prove the appointment of the Directors who made such call nor any other matters whatsoever, but the proof of the matters aforesaid shall be conclusive evidence of the debt.

 

26. Power of disposal

A forfeited Share may be sold or otherwise disposed of on such terms and in such manner as the Directors think fit and at any time before a sale or disposal the forfeiture may be cancelled on such terms as the Directors think fit. Where for the purposes of its disposal such a Share is to be transferred to any person, the Directors may take such steps as the Directors consider are necessary or desirable in order to


effect such sale and, for this purpose, may authorise some person to execute an instrument of transfer of the Share to that person. The Company may receive the consideration, if any, given for the Share on any sale or disposal thereof and may execute a transfer of the Share in favour of the person to whom the Share is sold or disposed of and thereupon he shall be registered as the Holder of the Share and shall not be bound to see to the application of the purchase moneys, nor shall his title to the Share be affected by any irregularity or invalidity in the proceedings in reference to the forfeiture, sale or disposal of the Share and after the name of the transferee has been entered in the Register the remedy of any person aggrieved by the sale shall be in damages only and against the Company exclusively.

 

27. Effect of forfeiture

A person whose Shares have been forfeited shall cease to be a Member in respect of the forfeited Shares, but nevertheless shall remain liable to pay to the Company all moneys which, at the date of forfeiture, were payable by him to the Company in respect of the Shares, but his liability shall cease if and when the Company shall have received payment in full of all such moneys in respect of the Shares.

 

28. Statutory declaration

A statutory declaration that the declarant is a Director or the Secretary of the Company, and that a Share in the Company has been duly forfeited on the date stated in the declaration, shall be conclusive evidence of the facts therein stated as against all persons claiming to be entitled to the Share.

 

29. Non-payment of sums due on Share issues

The provisions of these Articles as to forfeiture shall apply in the case of non-payment of any sum which, by the terms of issue of a Share, becomes payable at a fixed time, whether on account of the nominal value of the Share or by way of premium, as if the same had been payable by virtue of a call duly made and notified.

Part VI - Conversion of Shares into Stock

 

30. Conversion of Shares into stock

The Company by ordinary resolution may convert any paid up Shares into stock and reconvert any stock into paid up Shares of any denomination.


31. Transfer of stock

The holders of stock may transfer the same or any part thereof, in the same manner, and subject to the same regulations, as and subject to which the Shares from which the stock arose might have been transferred before conversion, or as near thereto as circumstances admit; and the Directors may fix from time to time the minimum amount of stock transferable but so that such minimum shall not exceed the nominal amount of each Share from which the stock arose.

 

32. Rights of stockholders

 

  (a) The holders of stock shall have, according to the amount of stock held by them, the same rights, privileges and advantages in relation to dividends, voting at meetings of the Company and other matters as if they held the Shares from which the stock arose, but no such right, privilege or advantage (except participation in the dividends and profits of the Company and in the assets on winding up) shall be conferred by an amount of stock which, if existing in Shares, would not have conferred that right, privilege or advantage.

 

  (b) Such of these Articles as are applicable to paid up Shares shall apply to stock, and the words “Share” and “Shareholder” therein shall include “stock” and “stockholder”.

Part VII - Transfer of Shares

 

33. Form of instrument of transfer

Subject to such of the restrictions of these Articles and to such of the conditions of issue or transfer as may be applicable, the Shares of any Member may be transferred by instrument in writing in any usual or common form or any other form which the Directors may approve.

 

34. Execution of instrument of transfer

The instrument of transfer of any Share shall be executed by or on behalf of the transferor and, in cases where the Share is not fully paid, by or on behalf of the transferee. The transferor shall be deemed to remain the Holder of the Share until the name of the transferee is entered in the Register in respect thereof.


35. Refusal to register transfers

 

  (a) The Directors in their absolute discretion and without assigning any reason therefor may decline to register any transfer of a Share which is not fully paid save and however, that in the case of such a Share which is admitted to listing on any of The Stock Exchanges such restriction shall not operate so as to prevent dealings in such a Share of the Company from taking place on an open and proper basis.

 

  (b) The Directors shall not register any person as a Holder of any Share in the Company (other than an allottee under an issue of Shares by way of capitalisation of profits or reserves made pursuant to these Articles or a Stock Exchange Nominee or a Depositary (as defined in Article 41)) unless such person has furnished to the Directors a declaration (in such form as the Directors may from time to time prescribe) signed by him or on his behalf (or, in the case of a corporation, sealed by the corporation or signed on its behalf by an attorney or duly authorised officer of the corporation), together with such evidence as the Directors may require of the authority of any signatory on behalf of such person, stating (i) the name and nationality of any person who has an Interest in any such Share and (if such declaration or the Directors so require) the nature and extent of the Interest of each such person or (ii) such other information as the Directors may from time to time determine. The Directors shall in any case where they may consider it appropriate require such person to provide such evidence or give such information as to the matters referred to in the declaration as they think fit. The Directors shall decline to register any person as a Holder of a Share if such further evidence or information is not provided or given. The Directors shall, so long as they act reasonably and in good faith, be under no liability to the Company or to any other person if they register any person as the Holder of a Share on the basis of a declaration or other evidence or information provided pursuant to this Article 35 which declaration, evidence or information appears on its face to be correct.

 

  (c) The Directors may decline to recognise any instrument of transfer unless:-

 

  (i) the instrument of transfer is accompanied by the certificate of the Shares to which it relates and such other evidence as the Directors may reasonably require to show the right of the transferor to make the transfer (save where the transferor is a Stock Exchange Nominee);

 

  (ii) the instrument of transfer is in respect of one class of Share only;

 

  (iii) the instrument of transfer is in favour of not more than four transferees; and

 

  (iv) it is lodged at the Office or at such other place as the Directors may appoint.


  (d) The transfer of any Restricted Share (as defined in Article 41) shall be subject to the approval of the Directors if, in the opinion of the Directors, such Restricted Share would upon transfer remain a Restricted Share and the Directors may refuse to register the transfer of a Restricted Share if it would continue to be a Restricted Share following such transfer.

 

36. Procedure on refusal

If the Directors refuse to register a transfer then, within two months after the date on which the transfer was lodged with the Company, they shall send to the transferee notice of the refusal.

 

37. Closing of transfer books

The registration of transfers of Shares either generally or in respect of any class of Shares may be suspended at such times and for such periods (not exceeding thirty days in each year) as the Directors may determine.

 

38. Absence of registration fees

No fee shall be charged for the registration of any instrument of transfer or other document relating to or affecting the title to any Share.

 

39. Retention of transfer instruments

The Company shall be entitled to retain any instrument of transfer which is registered, but any instrument of transfer which the Directors refuse to register shall be returned to the person lodging it when notice of the refusal is given.

 

40. Renunciation of allotment

Nothing in these Articles shall preclude the Directors from recognising a renunciation of the allotment of any Shares by the allottee in favour of some other person.

 

41. Limitations on Share Ownership

 

  (A) The purpose of this Article 41 is to enable the Directors to ensure that, where it is necessary for Shares to be owned and controlled by persons of a particular nationality or nationalities so as to ensure that the Company or any of its subsidiaries can continue to enjoy the benefit of any Licence, the Shares are so owned and controlled.


  (B) In this Article 41 the following expressions shall have the following meanings:-

 

“Affected

Holder”

  

 

(i) any natural person who is not a national of a member state of the European Union (ii) any body corporate or similar entity which has not been incorporated in and the centre of management and control of which is not in a member state of the European Union (iii) a government or governmental department, agency or body, otherwise than of a member state of the European Union, (iv) any municipal, local, statutory or other authority or any undertaking or body formed or established in any country other than a member state of the European Union, or (v) any person who (a) falls within any of the foregoing paragraphs of this definition and (b) would be taken to be interested in any Shares pursuant to the provisions of Section 77 of the 1990 Act if a body corporate were interested in those Shares;

“Affected Share”   

 

any Share in which an Affected Holder has a direct or indirect Interest (through Depositary Shares or otherwise) or which is otherwise declared by the Directors to be an Affected Share pursuant to these Articles and which has not been removed from the Separate Register;

“Affiliate”    in the case of an individual Holder, his spouse, child or grandchild and, in the case of any Holder which is a body corporate, a wholly owned subsidiary of such body corporate, a body corporate of which such body corporate is a wholly owned subsidiary or a wholly owned subsidiary of that body corporate, in the case of a general partnership, any partner of such partnership, any limited or general partner or member of any such partner (or any shareholder, member or partner of such entity) and, in the case of a limited partnership, any limited or general partner of such limited partnership, any limited or general partner or member of any such limited or general partner (or any shareholder, member or partner of such entity);


“Depositary”    a custodian or other person approved by the Directors appointed under contractual arrangements with the Company (or a nominee for such custodian or other person) whereby such custodian or other person holds or is interested in Shares and which issues Depositary Receipts representing Depositary Shares evidencing interests in Deposited Shares;
“Depositary Receipts”   

 

receipts or similar documents of title issued by or on behalf of a Depositary representing Depositary Shares;

“Depositary Shares”   

 

means shares issued by a Depositary represented by Depositary Receipts and evidencing interests in Deposited Shares;

“Deposited Shares”   

 

means the Shares held by a Depositary or in which such Depositary is interested in its capacity as a Depositary;

“Intervening Act”   

 

means the refusal, withholding, suspension or revocation of any Licence applied for, granted to or enjoyed by the Company or any subsidiary of the Company, or the imposition of any conditions or limitations upon any such Licence which materially inhibit the exercise thereof;

“Licence”    any licence, permit, consent or privilege of any kind held or enjoyed from time to time by the Company or any of its subsidiaries which enables an air service to be operated including, without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, any air operators certificate issued pursuant to the Air Navigation (Air Operator Certificates) Order, 1993 or any air operating licence issued pursuant to the Irish Air Navigation and Transport Act, 1965 (Section 8) Regulations, 1993;
“Permitted Maximum”   

 

means any aggregate number of Shares which the Directors have specified as the maximum aggregate permitted number of Affected Shares pursuant to paragraph (H)(ii)(c) of this Article;


“Restricted Share”   

 

means any Share or Depositary Share which shall be treated as a restricted share pursuant to sub-paragraph (H) of this Article;

“Restricted Share Disposal”   

 

 

means a disposal or disposals of Interests in an Affected Share (including Interests held through Depositary Shares) such that the Affected Share ceases to be an Affected Share;

“Restricted Share
Notice”
  

 

 

means a notice in writing served in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (I) of this Article;

“Separate Register”   

 

the separate register to be maintained in accordance with Article 41(c);

 

  (C) A Separate Register, apart from the Register, shall be maintained of all Affected Shares in such format and containing such information as the Directors shall determine from time to time. The particulars entered on the Separate Register in respect of any Share shall comprise, in addition to the identity of the Holder or joint Holders, such information as has been requested by and supplied to the Directors (regarding, where appropriate, the name and nationality of any person having an Interest in such Share, the nature and extent of the Interest of each such person and the date such Interest was acquired) or, if no such information has been supplied, such information as the Directors consider appropriate. The Directors may from time to time (if they so determine) cause to be entered in the Separate Register particulars of any Share in respect of which neither the Holder nor any joint Holder has made a declaration as to whether or not the Share is an Affected Share and all or some specified number of Shares in respect of which Depositary Shares have been issued by a Depositary (and any number so specified may from time to time be varied by the Directors).

 

  (D) Each Holder of a Share which has not been acknowledged to be an Affected Share who becomes aware that such Share is or has become an Affected Share shall forthwith notify the Company accordingly.

 

  (E) Whether or not a Disclosure Notice pursuant to Article 7 has been given, the Directors may, and if at any time it appears to the Directors that a Share particulars of which have not been entered in the Separate Register may be an Affected Share shall, give notice in writing to the Holder or Holders of any


  Share or to any other person who appears to them to be interested in that Share requiring him to show to their satisfaction that such a Share is not an Affected Share. Any person on which such notice has been served and any other person who is interested in such Share may within twenty-one days thereafter (or such longer period as the Directors may consider reasonable) make representations to the Directors as to why such Share should not be treated as an Affected Share but, if, after considering such representations and such other information as seems to them relevant, the Directors are not so satisfied, the Directors shall declare such Share to be an Affected Share and it shall thereupon be treated as such.
(F)   (i)    The Directors shall be entitled to treat any or all Shares held by a Depositary as Affected Shares unless evidence which is satisfactory to the Directors, in their sole discretion, showing that such Shares should not be treated as Affected Shares because the holders of some or all of the Depositary Receipts evidencing Depositary Shares are not Affected Holders is produced to the Directors;
  (ii)    A person who has an Interest in Shares as a consequence of having an Interest in Depositary Receipts evidencing Depositary Shares shall be treated as only having an Interest in the number of Shares represented by such Depositary Shares evidenced by such Depositary Receipts, unless there is some reason why such person should be regarded as having an Interest in any other Shares represented by Depositary Shares evidenced by Depositary Receipts.
  (iii)    The Directors shall be entitled to assume that any holder of Depositary Receipts who has a registered address in the United States of America is or holds such Depositary Receipts on behalf of a national of the United States of America and that any holder of Depositary Receipts who has a registered address in Canada is or holds such Depositary Receipts on behalf of a national of Canada.

(G)   

  The Directors shall remove from the Separate Register any information set out therein regarding any Affected Shares if satisfactory evidence that such Shares have ceased be an Affected Shares or should no longer be treated as Affected Shares has been produced to them (in such format as they shall specify) and such Shares shall cease to be regarded as Affected Shares once such information has been removed from the Separate Register. The decision of the Directors in this regard shall be at their absolute discretion and any decision made or any action taken by the Directors shall be without prejudice to their entitlement to take any other action which they are entitled to take pursuant to these Articles.


(H)   (i)    The provisions of sub-paragraph (ii) below shall apply where the Directors determine that it is necessary to take steps in order to protect any Licence or the status of the Company or any of its subsidiaries as an airline or air carrier by reason of the fact that:
    

(a)    an Intervening Act has taken place;

    

(b)    the Company or any subsidiary of the Company receives a notice or direction from any governmental body or any other body regulating the provision of air transport services to the effect that an Intervening Act is imminent, threatened or intended;

    

(c)    the aggregate number of Affected Shares particulars of which are entered in the Separate Register is such that an Intervening Act may occur; or

    

(d)    the ownership or control of the Company is otherwise such that an Intervening Act is imminent, threatened or intended.

  (ii)    Where a determination has been made under sub-paragraph (i) of this paragraph, the Directors shall take such of the following steps, either immediately upon such determination being made or at any time thereafter, as seems to them necessary or desirable to overcome, prevent or avoid an Intervening Act:
    

(a)    the Directors may remove any Director before the expiration of his term of office or change the Chairman of the Board;

    

(b)    the Directors may resolve to seek to identify those Shares, Depositary Shares evidencing an interest in such Shares or Affected Shares which gave rise to the determination, or would in their sole opinion, if details thereof had been entered on the Separate Register at the relevant time, have given rise to a determination and to deal with such Shares or Affected Shares (or any Depositary Shares evidencing an interest in such Shares) as Restricted Shares;

    

(c)    the Directors may specify a Permitted Maximum of Affected Shares or vary any Permitted Maximum previously specified, provided that, subject to paragraph (H) (iii) of this Article, at no time shall the Permitted Maximum be less than 40 per cent of the aggregate number of issued Shares and, at any time when the aggregate number of Affected Shares of which particulars are entered in the Separate Register exceeds the Permitted Maximum applying for the time


     being, the Directors may deal with such of the Affected Shares as they decide are in excess of the Permitted Maximum or Depositary Shares evidencing an interest in such Shares as Restricted Shares.
  (iii)    Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs (H)(i) and (ii) of this Article, the Directors may take the following action if there is a change in any applicable law or the Company or any subsidiary of the Company receives any direction, notice or requirement of any state, authority or person which, in either case, necessitates such action in order to overcome, prevent or avoid an Intervening Act:-
    

(a)    the Directors may specify that the Permitted Maximum referred to in paragraph (H)(ii)(c) of this Article shall be set at such level below 40 per cent as they consider necessary in order to overcome, prevent or avoid such Intervening Act;

    

(b)    the Directors may resolve that any Affected Shares held by any Holder or Holders or any Depositary Shares evidencing an interest in such Shares shall be treated as Restricted Shares for the purposes of this Article 41.

(I)     

  The Directors shall give a Restricted Share Notice to the registered Holder of any Share (or the registered holder of a Depositary Receipt evidencing Depositary Shares) which they determine to deal with as a Restricted Share and to any other person who appears to them to be interested in that Share (or Depositary Receipt evidencing Depositary Shares) and shall state which of the provisions of paragraph (J) of this Article (all of which shall be set out in the Notice) are to be applied forthwith in respect of such Restricted Share. The Directors shall be entitled from time to time to serve further Restricted Share Notices in respect of any Restricted Share applying further provisions of paragraph (J) of this Article. The registered Holder of a Share or the registered holder of a Depositary Share in respect of which a Restricted Share Notice has been served or any other person on whom a Restricted Share Notice in respect of that Share or Depositary Share has been served may make representations to the Directors as to why such Share or Depositary Share should not be treated as a Restricted Share and if, after considering such representations and such other information as seems to them relevant, the Directors consider that the Share or Depositary Share should not be treated as a Restricted Share they will forthwith withdraw the Restricted Share Notice served in respect of such Share or Depositary Share and the provisions of paragraph (J) shall no longer apply to it. For the avoidance of doubt, any Share or Depositary Share which the Directors determine to deal with as a Restricted Share shall continue to be a Restricted Share unless and until the Directors withdraw the Restricted Share Notice relating thereto.


(J)

  (i)    A registered Holder of a Restricted Share or, where relevant, the registered holder of a Depositary Receipt evidencing Depositary Shares upon whom a Restricted Share Notice has been served or, where relevant, a Depositary shall not (if such Restricted Share Notice specified that the provisions of this sub-paragraph (i) are to apply thereto) be entitled, in respect of such Share or Depositary Share evidenced by the relevant Depositary Receipt, to attend or to speak at any general meeting of the Company or any meeting of the Holders of any class of Shares or to vote at any such meeting and the rights to attend (whether in person or by proxy), to speak and to demand and vote on a poll which, but for the provisions of this sub-paragraph (J)(i), would have attached to the Restricted Share shall vest in the chairman of such meeting. The manner in which the chairman exercises or refrains from exercising any such rights shall be entirely at his discretion. The chairman of any such meeting as aforesaid shall be informed by the Directors of any Share or Depositary Share becoming or being deemed to be a Restricted Share.
  (ii)    The persons on whom a Restricted Share Notice has been served shall (if such Restricted Share Notice specifies that the provisions of this sub-paragraph (J)(ii) are to apply thereto), within twenty-one days of receiving such Restricted Share Notice (or such longer period as may in such Notice be prescribed by the Directors), make a Restricted Share Disposal so that no Affected Holder has an Interest in that Share (including an Interest held through Depositary Shares) the subject of the relevant Restricted Share Notice.

 

  (K) If a Restricted Share is not transferred by the Holder thereof in accordance with a Restricted Share Notice requiring such Restricted Share to be transferred within the required period from the date of the service thereof, then such Restricted Share may be sold or otherwise disposed of on such terms and in such manner as the Directors think fit at the best price reasonably obtainable at the relevant time and in the relevant circumstances, so that the Share, which is the subject of the Restricted Share Notice, thereafter ceases to be an Affected Share. Where for the purposes of such disposal, such Restricted Share is to be transferred to any person, the Directors may authorise some person to execute an instrument of transfer of the Restricted Share to that person or take such other steps as the Directors may consider necessary or


desirable to effect such transfer. The Company may receive the consideration, if any, given for the Restricted Share on any sale or disposal thereof and the transferee shall be registered as the Holder or holder of the Restricted Share and shall not be concerned to see to the application of the purchase money, nor shall his title to the Restricted Share be affected by any irregularity or invalidity in the proceedings in reference to the disposal of the Restricted Share. The net proceeds of the disposal, after payment of the costs, shall be paid to the former Holder or holder of the Restricted Share upon surrender to the Company for cancellation of the certificate for the Restricted Share sold or such other evidence of title to the Restricted Share sold as the Directors consider appropriate;

 

  (L) A Restricted Share Notice may be withdrawn by the Directors at any time before the relevant Restricted Shares are transferred in accordance with its terms;

 

(M)   (i)    Subject to sub-paragraph (ii), in deciding which Shares are to be dealt with as Restricted Shares the Directors shall be entitled to have regard to the Interests in Affected Shares which in their sole opinion have directly or indirectly caused the determination under sub-paragraph(H) of this Article but subject thereto shall, so far as practicable, firstly treat as Restricted Shares those Affected Shares in respect of which no declaration as to whether or not such Shares are Affected Shares has been made by the Holder or joint Holder thereof and where information requested as to the nationality of parties having an Interest in such Shares is not provided within 14 days of a request being made under Article 7 or in accordance with Article 44(E), as the case may be, and thereafter shall have regard to the chronological order in which particulars of Affected Shares have been, or are to be, entered in the Separate Register (and accordingly treat as Restricted Shares those Affected Shares which have been acquired, or details of which have been entered in the Separate Register, most recently) save in circumstances where such criterion would in the sole opinion of the Directors be inequitable, in which event the Directors shall apply such other criterion or criteria as they may, in their absolute discretion, consider appropriate.
  (ii)    Subject to the provisions of this sub-paragraph (ii), the Directors shall not have regard to any transfer of Affected Shares by an Affected Holder to an Affiliate of such Affected Holder in considering the chronological


order in which particulars of Affected Shares have been entered in the Separate Register for the purposes of sub-paragraph (i) and, for such purpose, shall only have regard to the date upon which particulars of Affected Shares were first entered in the Separate Register until such time as they are transferred to a party who is not an Affiliate of the Affected Holder of such Affected Shares. The provisions of this sub-paragraph (ii) are without prejudice to, and shall not affect, the ability of the Directors to apply criteria other than the chronological order in which particulars of Affected Shares have been entered in the Separate Register where the latter criterion would be inequitable in determining which Affected Shares are to be treated as Restricted Shares pursuant to sub-paragraph (i). The Directors may require any Affected Holder to produce evidence, to their satisfaction, that any transfer of Affected Shares by or to such Affected Holder has been a transfer by an Affected Holder to an Affiliate of such Affected Holder for the purposes of this sub-paragraph (ii) and, where the Directors so request, any such transfer shall not be treated as a transfer by an Affected Holder to an Affiliate of such Affected Holder for the purposes of this sub-paragraph (ii) until such evidence has been produced to the Directors.

 

  (N) Notwithstanding any other provision of these Articles, the Directors shall not be obliged to serve any notice required under this Article upon any person if they do not know either his identity or address. The absence of service in such circumstances as aforesaid and any accidental error in or failure to give any notice to any person upon whom notice is required to be served under this Article shall not prevent the implementation of or invalidate any procedure under this Article.

 

  (O) For the purposes of this Article a person who has an Interest in Shares the registered holder of which is a Stock Exchange Nominee (other than an Interest arising solely as a result of a Stock Exchange Nominee being the registered holder of such Shares) shall not (in the absence of any other reason why he should be so treated) be deemed to have an Interest in the remainder of the Shares held by such Stock Exchange Nominee.

 

  (P) Any resolution, decision, determination or exercise of any discretion or power by the Directors pursuant to this Article 41 shall be final and conclusive and they shall not be obliged to give any reasons therefor. The Directors shall be under no liability to the Company or any other


     person, so long as they act in good faith, for any failure to exercise any of the powers exercisable by them pursuant to this Article or for any erroneous determination made by them in exercise of their powers pursuant to this Article. Any disposal or transfer made, or other thing done, by or on behalf of, or on the authority of the Directors or any of them pursuant to this Article shall be conclusive and binding on all persons concerned and shall not be open to challenge on any ground whatsoever. Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, the Directors shall, so long as they act reasonably and in good faith, be under no liability to the Company or any other person for failing to treat any Share as an Affected Share or any person as an Affected Holder in accordance with the provisions of this Article and neither shall any of the Directors be liable to the Company or any other person if, having acted reasonably and in good faith, they determined erroneously that any Share is a Affected Share or any person is an Affected Holder or, on the basis of such determination or resolution of the Directors, they perform or exercise (or purport to perform or exercise) their duties, powers, rights or discretions under Article 41 in relation to such Share.

 

  (Q) The provisions of Articles 125 to 131A shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to service of notices upon any Member pursuant to this Article. Any notice required by this Article to be served upon a person who is not a Member or upon a person who is a Member but to whom Article 127 applies shall be deemed validly served if it is sent through the post in a pre-paid cover addressed to that person at the address (or if more than one, at one of the addresses), if any, at which the Directors believe him to be resident or carrying on business. Service shall in such a case be deemed to be effected at the expiration of twenty-four hours (or, where second class mail is employed, forty-eight hours) after the time when the cover containing the same is posted and in proving such service it shall be sufficient that such cover was properly addressed, stamped and posted.

 

  (R) At any time when the Directors have resolved to specify a Permitted Maximum or deal with any Shares as Restricted Shares (other than on the first occasion when they resolve to specify a Permitted Maximum following the adoption of these Articles) they shall publish in at least one national newspaper in the State (and in a newspaper in any other country in which Shares or Depositary Receipts evidencing Depositary Shares are, at the instigation of the Company, listed, quoted or dealt in on any stock exchange) notice of such resolution and of any Permitted Maximum which has been specified, together with a statement of the provisions of this Article which can apply to Restricted Shares and the name of the person or persons who will answer enquiries relating to Restricted Shares on behalf of the Company. At other times the Directors shall from time to time so publish information as to the number of Shares particulars of which have been entered in the Separate Register.


  (S) The Directors shall not be required to make the Separate Register available for inspection by any person but shall provide persons who make enquiries which the Directors determine in their sole discretion to be bona fide with information as to the aggregate number of Shares of which particulars are from time to time entered in the Separate Register.

 

  (T) The Directors may determine that a different definition of the term “EU National” shall apply for the purposes of these Articles, where they have obtained written confirmation from an appropriate governmental or regulatory body and such other confirmations as they require that such determination will not adversely affect the ability of the Directors to ensure compliance with any applicable law or regulation by exercising the powers conferred on them pursuant to these Articles following such determination.

Part VIII - Transmission of Shares

 

42. Death of Member

If a Member dies the survivor or survivors where he was a joint Holder, and his personal representatives where he was a sole Holder or the only survivor of joint Holders, shall be the only persons recognised by the Company as having any title to his interest in the Shares; but nothing herein contained shall release the estate of a deceased Member from any liability in respect of any Share which had been jointly held by him.

 

43. Transmission on death or bankruptcy

A person becoming entitled to a Share in consequence of the death or bankruptcy of a Member may elect, upon such evidence being produced as the Directors may properly require, either to become the Holder of the Share or to have some person nominated by him registered as the transferee. If he elects to become the Holder he shall give notice to the Company to that effect. If he elects to have another person registered he shall execute an instrument of transfer of the Share to that person. All of the provisions of these Articles relating to the transfer of Shares shall apply to the notice or instrument of transfer as if it were an instrument of transfer executed by the Member and the death or bankruptcy of the Member had not occurred.


44. Rights before registration

A person becoming entitled to a Share by reason of the death or bankruptcy of a Member (upon supplying to the Company such evidence as the Directors may reasonably require to show his title to the Share) shall (notwithstanding that he is not entered on the Register as the holder of the Share) have the rights to which he would be entitled if he were the Holder of the Share, except that, before being registered as the Holder of the Share, he shall not be entitled in respect of it to attend or vote at any meeting of the Company or at any separate meeting of the Holders of any class of Shares in the Company, so, however, that the Directors, at any time, may give notice requiring any such person to elect either to be registered himself or to transfer the Share and, if the notice is not complied with within ninety days, the Directors thereupon may withhold payment of all dividends, bonuses or other moneys payable in respect of the Share until the requirements of the notice have been complied with.

Part IX - Alteration of Share Capital

 

45. Increase of capital

 

  (a) The Company from time to time by ordinary resolution may increase the share capital by such sum, to be divided into Shares of such amount, as the resolution shall prescribe.

 

  (b) Subject to the provisions of the Acts, the new Shares shall be issued to such persons, upon such terms and conditions and with such rights and privileges annexed thereto as the general meeting resolving upon the creation thereof shall direct and, if no direction be given, as the Directors shall determine and in particular such Shares may be issued with a preferential or qualified right to dividends and in the distribution of the assets of the Company and with a special, or without any, right of voting.

 

  (c) Except so far as otherwise provided by the conditions of issue or by these Articles, any capital raised by the creation of new Shares shall be considered part of the pre-existing ordinary capital and shall be subject to the provisions herein contained with reference to calls and instalments, transfer and transmission, forfeiture, lien and otherwise.

 

46. Consolidation, sub-division and cancellation of capital

The Company, by ordinary resolution, may:-

 

  (a) consolidate and divide all or any of its share capital into Shares of larger amount;


  (b) subject to the provisions of the Acts, subdivide its Shares, or any of them, into Shares of smaller amount, so however that in the sub-division the proportion between the amount paid and the amount, if any, unpaid on each reduced Share shall be the same as it was in the case of the Share from which the reduced Share is derived (and so that the resolution whereby any Share is sub-divided may determine that, as between the Holders of the Shares resulting from such sub-division, one or more of the Shares may have, as compared with the others, any such preferred, deferred or other rights or be subject to any such restrictions as the Company has power to attach to unissued or new Shares); or

 

  (c) cancel any Shares which, at the date of the passing of the resolution, have not been taken or agreed to be taken by any person and reduce the amount of its authorised share capital by the amount of the Shares so cancelled.

 

47. Fractions on consolidation

Subject to the provisions of these Articles, whenever as a result of a consolidation of Shares any Members would become entitled to fractions of a Share, the Directors may sell, on behalf of those Members, the Shares representing the fraction for the best price reasonably obtainable to any person and distribute the proceeds of sale in due proportion among those Members, and the Directors may take such steps as the Directors consider are necessary or desirable in order to effect such sale and, for this purpose, may authorise any person to execute an instrument of transfer of the Shares to, or in accordance with the directions of, the purchaser. The transferee shall not be bound to see to the application of the purchase money nor shall his title to the Shares be affected by any irregularity in or invalidity of the proceedings in reference to the sale.

 

48. Reduction of capital

The Company, by special resolution, may reduce its share capital, any capital redemption reserve fund or any share premium account in any manner and with, and subject to, any incident authorised, and consent required, by law.

 

49. Purchase of own Shares

Subject to the provisions of the Acts and to any rights conferred on the Holders of any class of Shares, the Company may purchase all or any of its Shares of any class (including any redeemable Shares). Every contract for the purchase of, or under which the Company may become entitled or obliged to purchase, Shares in the Company shall be authorised by a special resolution of the Company. Neither the Company nor the Directors shall be required to select the Shares to be purchased


rateably or in any particular manner as between the Holders of Shares of the same class or as between them and the Holders of Shares of any other class or in accordance with the rights as to dividends or capital conferred by any class of Shares. Subject as aforesaid, the Company may cancel any Shares so purchased or may hold them as treasury Shares and issue any such treasury Shares as Shares of any class or classes or cancel them. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in these Articles, the rights attached to any class of Shares shall be deemed not to be varied by anything done by the Company pursuant to this Article.

Part XX - General Meetings

 

50. Annual general meetings

The Company shall hold in each year a general meeting as its annual general meeting in addition to any other meeting in that year and shall specify the meeting as such in the notices calling it. Not more than fifteen months shall elapse between the date of one annual general meeting and that of the next.

 

51. Extraordinary general meetings

All general meetings other than annual general meetings shall be called extraordinary general meetings.

 

52. Convening general meetings

The Directors may convene general meetings. Extraordinary general meetings may also be convened by the Directors on such requisition, or in the event of default by the Directors may be convened by such requisitionists and in such manner, as may be provided by the Acts. If at any time there are not within the State sufficient Directors capable of acting to form a quorum, any Director or any two Members of the Company may convene an extraordinary general meeting in the same manner as nearly as possible as that in which general meetings may be convened by the Directors.

 

53. Notice of general meetings

 

  (a) Subject to the provisions of the Acts allowing a general meeting to be called by shorter notice, an annual general meeting and an extraordinary general meeting called for the passing of a special resolution shall be called by at least twenty-one Clear Days’ notice and all other extraordinary general meetings shall be called by at least fourteen Clear Days’ notice.


  (b) Any notice convening a general meeting shall specify the time and place of the meeting and, in the case of special business, the general nature of that business and, in reasonable prominence, that a Member entitled to attend and vote is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend, speak and vote in his place and that a proxy need not be a Member of the Company. It shall also give particulars of any Directors who are to retire by rotation or otherwise at the meeting and of any persons who are recommended by the Directors for appointment or re-appointment as Directors at the meeting, or in respect of whom notice has been duly given to the Company of the intention to propose them for appointment or re-appointment as Directors at the meeting. Subject to any restrictions imposed on any Shares, the notice shall be given to all the Members and to the Directors and the Auditors.

 

  (c) The accidental omission to give notice of a meeting to, or the non-receipt of notice of a meeting by, any person entitled to receive notice shall not invalidate the proceedings at the meeting.

 

  (d) Where, by any provision contained in the Acts, extended notice is required of a resolution, the resolution shall not be effective (except where the Directors of the Company have resolved to submit it) unless notice of the intention to move it has been given to the Company not less than such number of days as the Acts permit before the meeting at which it is moved, and the Company shall give to the Members notice of any such resolution as required by and in accordance with the provisions of the Acts.

 

  (e) The Directors may, for the purpose of controlling the level of attendance at any place specified for the holding of a general meeting, from time to time make such arrangements whether involving the issue of tickets (on a basis intended to afford to all Members otherwise entitled to attend such meeting an equal opportunity of being admitted to the meeting) or the imposition of some random means of selection or otherwise as they shall in their absolute discretion consider to be appropriate, and may from time to time vary any such arrangements or make new arrangements in place therefor and the entitlement of any Member or proxy to attend a general meeting at such place shall be subject to any such arrangements as may be for the time being in force and by the notice of meeting stated to apply to that meeting. In the case of any general meeting to which such arrangements apply the Directors shall, and in the case of any other general meeting the Directors may, when specifying the place of the general meeting, direct that the meeting shall be held at a place specified in the notice at which the chairman of the meeting shall preside (“the Principal Place”) and make arrangements for simultaneous attendance and participation at other places by members otherwise entitled to attend the general meeting but excluded therefrom under the provisions of this Article or who wish to attend at any of such other places provided that persons attending at the Principal Place and at any of such other places shall be able to see and hear and be seen and heard by persons attending at the Principal Place and at


such other places. Such arrangements for simultaneous attendance may include arrangements for controlling the level of attendance in any manner aforesaid at such other places provided that they shall operate so that any such excluded members as aforesaid are able to attend at one of such other places. For the purposes of all other provisions of these Articles any such meeting shall be treated as being held and taking place at the Principal Place.

Part XI - Proceedings at General Meetings

 

54. Quorum for general meetings

 

  (a) No business other than the appointment of a chairman shall be transacted at any general meeting unless a quorum of Members is present at the time when the meeting proceeds to business. Except as provided in relation to an adjourned meeting, three Members, present in person or by proxy, entitled to vote upon the business to be transacted, shall be a quorum.

 

  (b) If such a quorum is not present within half an hour from the time appointed for the meeting, or if during a meeting a quorum ceases to be present, the meeting shall stand adjourned to the same day in the next week at the same time and place, or to such time and place as the Directors may determine. If at the adjourned meeting such a quorum is not present within half an hour from the time appointed for the meeting, the meeting, if convened otherwise than by resolution of the Directors, shall be dissolved, but if the meeting shall have been convened by resolution of the Directors, two persons entitled to be counted in a quorum present at the meeting shall be a quorum.

 

55. Special business

All business shall be deemed special that is transacted at an extraordinary general meeting. All business that is transacted at an annual general meeting shall also be deemed special with the exception of declaring a dividend, the consideration of the accounts, balance sheets and reports of the Directors and Auditors, the election of Directors in the place of those retiring (whether by rotation or otherwise), the fixing of the remuneration of the Directors, the re-appointment of the retiring Auditors and the fixing of the remuneration of the Auditors.

 

56. Chairman of general meetings

 

  (a) The chairman of the board of Directors or, if such person is not an EU National or in his absence, the deputy chairman (if any) or, if such person is not an EU National or in his absence, some other Director who is an EU National nominated by the Directors shall preside as chairman at every general meeting of the Company. If at any general meeting none of such persons shall be present within fifteen minutes after the time appointed for the holding of


       the meeting and willing to act, the Directors present shall elect one of their number to be chairman of the meeting and, if there is only one Director present and willing to act, he shall be chairman.

 

  (b) If at any meeting no Director is willing to act as chairman or if no Director is present within fifteen minutes after the time appointed for holding the meeting, the Members present and entitled to vote shall choose one of the Members personally present (who must be an EU National) to be chairman of the meeting.

 

57. Directors’ and Auditors’ right to attend general meetings

A Director shall be entitled, notwithstanding that he is not a Member, to attend and speak at any general meeting and at any separate meeting of the Holders of any class of Shares in the Company. The Auditors shall be entitled to attend any general meeting and to be heard on any part of the business of the meeting which concerns them as the Auditors.

 

58. Adjournment of general meetings

The Chairman, with the consent of a meeting at which a quorum is present, may (and if so directed by the meeting, shall) adjourn the meeting from time to time (or sine die) and from place to place, but no business shall be transacted at any adjourned meeting other than business which might properly have been transacted at the meeting had the adjournment not taken place. Where a meeting is adjourned sine die, the time and place for the adjourned meeting shall be fixed by the Directors. When a meeting is adjourned for fourteen days or more or sine die, at least seven Clear Days’ notice shall be given, in the same manner as it was given for the meeting, specifying the time and place of the adjourned meeting and the general nature of the business to be transacted. Save as aforesaid it shall not be necessary to give any notice of an adjourned meeting.

 

59. Determination of resolutions

At any general meeting a resolution put to the vote of the meeting shall be decided on a show of hands unless before, or on the declaration of the result of, the show of hands a poll is duly demanded. Unless a poll is so demanded a declaration by the Chairman that a resolution has been carried or carried unanimously, or by a particular majority, or lost, or not carried by a particular majority and an entry to that effect in the minutes of the meeting shall be conclusive evidence of the fact without proof of the number or proportion of the votes recorded in favour of or against the resolution. The demand for a poll may be withdrawn before the poll is taken but only with the consent of the Chairman, and a demand so withdrawn shall not be taken to have invalidated the result of a show of hands declared before the demand was made.


60. Amendments to resolutions

If an amendment shall be proposed to any resolution under consideration but shall in good faith be ruled out of order by the Chairman of the meeting, the proceedings on the substantive resolution shall not be invalidated by any error in such ruling.

 

61. Entitlement to demand poll

Subject to the provisions of the Acts, a poll may be demanded:-

 

  (a) by the chairman of the meeting;

by at least three Members present (in person or by proxy) having the right to attend and vote at the meeting;

 

  (c) by any Member or Members present (in person or by proxy) representing in aggregate not less than one-tenth of the total voting rights of all the Members having the right to attend and vote at the meeting; or

 

  (d) by a Member or Members present (in person or by proxy) holding Shares in the Company conferring the right to attend and vote at the meeting being Shares on which an aggregate sum has been paid up equal to not less than one-tenth of the total sum paid up on all the Shares conferring that right.

 

62. Taking of a poll

 

  (a) Save as provided in paragraph (b) of this Article, a poll shall be taken in such manner as the Chairman directs and he may appoint scrutineers (who need not be Members) and fix a time and place for declaring the result of the poll. The result of the poll shall be deemed to be the resolution of the meeting at which the poll was demanded.

 

  (b) A poll demanded on the election of a chairman or on a question of adjournment shall be taken forthwith. A poll demanded on any other question shall be taken either forthwith or at such time (not being more than thirty days after the poll is demanded) and place as the chairman of the meeting may direct. The demand for a poll shall not prevent the continuance of a meeting for the transaction of any business other than the question on which the poll was demanded. If a poll is demanded before the declaration of the result of a show of hands and the demand is duly withdrawn, the meeting shall continue as if the demand had not been made.

 

  (c) No notice need be given of a poll not taken forthwith if the time and place at which it is to be taken are announced at the meeting at which it is demanded.

In any other case at least seven Clear Days’ notice shall be given specifying the time and place at which the poll is to be taken.


63. Votes of Members

Votes may be given either personally or by proxy. Subject to any rights or restrictions for the time being attached to any class or classes of Shares and to the provisions of Article 41, on a show of hands every Member present in person and every proxy shall have one vote, so, however, that no individual shall have more than one vote, and on a poll every Member shall have one vote for every Share carrying voting rights of which he is the Holder.

 

64. Chairman’s casting vote

Where there is an equality of votes, whether on a show of hands or on a poll the chairman of the meeting at which the show of hands takes place or at which the poll is demanded shall be entitled to a casting vote in addition to any other vote he may have.

 

65. Voting by joint Holders

Where there are joint Holders of a Share, the vote of the senior who tenders a vote, whether in person or by proxy, in respect of such Share shall be accepted to the exclusion of the votes of the other joint Holders; and for this purpose seniority shall be determined by the order in which the names of the Holders stand in the Register in respect of the Share.

 

66. Voting by incapacitated Holders

A Member of unsound mind, or in respect of whom an order has been made by any court having jurisdiction (whether in the State or elsewhere) in matters concerning mental disorder, may vote, whether on a show of hands or on a poll, by his committee, receiver, guardian or other person appointed by that court and any such committee, receiver, guardian or other person may vote by proxy on a show of hands or on a poll.

Evidence to the satisfaction of the Directors of the authority of the person claiming to exercise the right to vote pursuant to this Article shall be deposited at the Office or at such other place as is specified in accordance with these Articles for the deposit of instruments of proxy, not less than forty-eight hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the right to vote is to be exercised and in default the right to vote shall not be exercisable.

 

67. Default in payment of calls

Unless the Directors otherwise determine, no Member shall be entitled to vote at any general meeting or any separate meeting of the Holders of any class of Shares in the Company, either in person or by proxy, or to exercise any privilege as a Member in respect of any Share held by him unless all moneys then payable by him in respect of that Share have been paid.


68. Restriction of voting and other rights

 

  (a) If at any time the Directors shall determine that a Specified Event (as defined in paragraph (h)) shall have occurred in relation to any Share or Shares the Directors may serve a notice to such effect on the Holder or Holders thereof. Upon the expiry of a period of 14 days following the service of any such notice (in these Articles referred to as a “Restriction Notice”) and for so long as such Restriction Notice shall remain in force, no Holder or Holders of the Share or Shares specified in such Restriction Notice (“the Relevant Shares”) shall be entitled to attend or vote at any general meeting, either personally or by proxy in respect of such Relevant Shares; and the Directors shall, where the Restricted Shares represent not less than 0.25 per cent. of the total number of issued Shares of the same class of Shares as the Relevant Shares, be entitled:

 

  (i) to withhold payment of any dividend or other amount payable in respect of the Relevant Shares without any liability to pay interest thereon when such money is paid to the Member; and/or

 

  (ii) to refuse to register any transfer of the Relevant Shares (other than a transfer made as part of a sale to a bona fide unconnected third party where evidence that such is the case has been provided to the Directors upon a request being made by them in writing to the Holder or Holders of the Relevant Shares) or any renunciation of or any allotment of new Shares or debentures made in respect thereof.

 

  (b) A Restriction Notice shall be cancelled by the Directors as soon as reasonably practicable, but in any event not later than forty-eight hours after the Holder or Holders concerned or any other relevant person shall have remedied the default by virtue of which the Specified Event shall have occurred;

 

  (c) A Restriction Notice shall automatically cease to have effect in respect of any Share transferred upon registration of the relevant transfer provided that a Restriction Notice shall not cease to have effect in respect of any transfer where no change in the beneficial ownership of the Share shall occur and for this purpose it shall be assumed that no such change has occurred where a transfer form in respect of the Share is presented for registration having been stamped at a reduced rate of stamp duty by virtue of the transferor or transferee claiming to be entitled to such reduced rate as a result of the transfer being one where no beneficial interest passes.

 

  (d)

The Directors shall cause a notation to be made in the Register against the name of any Holder or Holders in respect of whom a Restriction Notice shall


 

have been served indicating the number of Shares specified in such Restriction Notice and shall cause such notation to be deleted upon cancellation or cesser of such Restriction Notice.

 

  (e) Where dividends or other payments are not paid as a result of restrictions imposed on Relevant Shares, such dividends or other payments shall accrue and shall be payable (without interest) upon the cancellation of the Restriction Notice.

 

  (f) Any determination of the Directors and any notice or request served by them pursuant to the provisions of this Article shall be conclusive as against the Holder or Holders of any Share and the validity of any notice or request served by the Directors in pursuance of this Article shall not be questioned by any person.

 

  (g) If, while any Restriction Notice shall remain in force in respect of any Holder or Holders of any Shares, such Holder or Holders shall be issued with any further Shares as a result of such Holder or Holders not renouncing any allotment of Shares made to him or them pursuant to a capitalisation issue under Articles 122 to 124, the Restriction Notice shall be deemed also to apply to such Holder or Holders in respect of such further Shares on the same terms and conditions as were applicable to the said Holder or Holders immediately prior to such issue of further Shares.

 

  (h) For the purpose of these Articles the expression “Specified Event” in relation to any Share shall mean either of the following events:-

 

  (i) the failure by the Holder or Holders thereof to pay any call or instalment of a call in the manner and at the time appointed for payment thereof; or

 

  (ii) the failure by the Holder thereof or any of the Holders thereof or any other relevant person to comply, to the satisfaction of the Directors, with all or any of the terms of Section 81 of the 1990 Act and/or Article 7 in respect of any notice or notices given to him or any of them thereunder.

 

69. Time for objection to voting

No objection shall be raised to the qualification of any voter except at the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the vote objected to is tendered and every vote not disallowed at such meeting shall be valid. Any such objection made in due time shall be referred to the chairman of the meeting whose decision shall be final and conclusive.


70. Appointment of proxy

Every Member entitled to attend and vote at a general meeting may appoint a proxy to attend, speak and vote on his behalf. The appointment of a proxy shall be in writing in any usual form or in any other form which the Directors may approve and shall be executed by or on behalf of the appointor. (or otherwise authenticated in such manner or form as the Directors may approve). Any signature on such appointment of a proxy need not be witnessed. A body corporate may execute a form of proxy under its common seal or under the hand of a duly authorised officer thereof. A proxy need not be a Member of the Company. No appointment of a proxy shall be valid after twelve months have elapsed from the date named in it as the date of its execution.

 

71. Bodies corporate acting by representatives at meetings

Any body corporate which is a Member of the Company may by resolution of its Directors or other governing body authorise such person as it thinks fit to act as its representative at any meeting of the Company or of any class of Members of the Company and the person so authorised shall be entitled to exercise the same powers on behalf of the body corporate which he represents as that body corporate could exercise if it were an individual Member of the Company.

 

72. Delivery and receipt of an appointment of proxy

The appointment of a proxy and any authority under which it is executed (or otherwise authenticated in a manner approved by the Directors) or a copy of such authority (or the information contained therein), certified notarially or in some other way authenticated in a manner approved by the Directors, shall be delivered to or lodged at the Office or (at the option of the Member) at such other place or places (if any) as may be specified for that purpose in or by way of note to the notice convening the meeting not less than forty-eight hours before the time appointed for the holding of the meeting or adjourned meeting or (in the case of a poll taken otherwise than at or on the same day as the meeting or adjourned meeting) for the taking of the poll at which it is to be used, and in default shall not be treated as valid. Provided that:-

 

  (a) in the case of a meeting which is adjourned to, or a poll which is to be taken on, a date which is less than seven days after the date of the meeting which was adjourned or at which the poll was demanded, it shall be sufficient if the appointment of a proxy and any such authority and certification thereof as aforesaid is delivered to or lodged with the Secretary at the commencement of the adjourned meeting or the taking of the poll;

 

  (b) an appointment of proxy relating to more than one meeting (including any adjournment thereof) having once been so delivered for the purposes of any meeting shall not require to be delivered again for the purposes of any subsequent meeting to which it relates;


  (c) appointments of a proxy may, provided they are received in legible form, be submitted by telefax to such telefax number as may be specified by the Secretary for such purpose provided that in the case of such telefax appointment of proxy, the Secretary shall have endorsed the same with a certificate stating that he is satisfied as to the authenticity thereof; and

 

  (d) when two or more valid but differing appointments of a proxy are received in respect of the same shares for use at the same meeting, the one bearing the later date shall be treated as replacing and revoking the other; if the appointments are undated the last one received shall be treated as valid; and if the Company is unable to determine which was the last received, none shall be treated as valid, and a certificate endorsed by the Secretary stating that the appointment is valid or invalid , as the case may be, shall be conclusive for all purposes.

 

  72A.     Crest electronic proxy

Without limiting the foregoing, in relation to any shares which are held in uncertified form, the Directors may from time to time permit appointments of proxy to be made by means of an electronic communication in the form of a dematerialised instruction, and/or other instruction or notification, which is sent by means of the relevant system concerned and received by such participant in that system acting on behalf of the Company as the Directors may prescribe, in such form and subject to such terms and conditions as may from time to time be prescribed by the Directors (subject always to the facilities and requirements of the relevant system concerned); and may in a similar manner permit supplements to, or amendments or revocations of, any such dematerialised instruction and/or other instruction or notification is to be treated as received by the Company or such participant. The Directors may treat any such dematerialised instruction (and/or other instruction or notification) which purports to be or is expressed to be sent on behalf of a holder of a share as sufficient evidence of the authority of the person sending that instruction to send it on behalf of that holder. In this Article, the terms “relevant system” and “dematerialised” shall have the meanings given in the Companies Act, 1990 (Uncertified Securities) Regulations, 1996 (SI No. 68 of 1996)

For the purposes of Article 72, the place to which the dematerialised instruction (and/or other instruction or notification) should be delivered shall be such number, address (including any number or address used for the purpose of communication by way of electronic mail or other electronic communication) or identification number of a participant in the relevant system concerned as is notified by the Directors to the Members whether by way of note to the notice convening the meeting or otherwise.

 

73. Effect of proxy appointments

Delivery or lodging of an appointment of a proxy in respect of a meeting shall not preclude a Member from attending and voting at the meeting or at any adjournment thereof. The appointment of a proxy shall be valid, unless the contrary is stated therein, as well for any adjournment of the meeting as for the meeting to which it relates and shall be deemed to include the right to demand or join in demanding a poll.


74. Effect of revocation of a proxy or of an authorisation

A vote given or poll demanded in accordance with the terms of an appointment of a proxy or a resolution authorising a representative to act on behalf of a body corporate shall be valid notwithstanding the death or insanity of the principal or the revocation of the appointment of proxy or of the authority under which the appointment of a proxy was executed or otherwise authenticated in a manner approved by the Directors (as the case may be) or of the resolution authorising the representative to act or transfer the Share in respect of which the appointment of proxy or the authorisation of the representative to act was given, provided that no intimation in writing of such death, insanity, revocation or transfer shall have been received by the Company at the Office or at such other address as may be specified in the notice of meeting or in the notes thereto at least one hour or such longer period as may be required by the Directors and so notified in the notice of meeting or in the notes thereto as aforesaid before the commencement of the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the appointment of proxy is used or at which the representative acts.

The Directors may send, at the expense of the Company, by post or otherwise, to the Members appointments of proxy (with or without stamped envelopes for their return) for use at any general meeting or at any class meeting, either in blank or nominating any one or more of the Directors or any other persons in the alternative. If for the purpose of any meeting invitations to appoint as proxy a person or one of a number of persons specified in the invitations are issued at the expense of the Company, such invitations shall be issued to all (and not to some only) of the Members entitled to be sent a notice of the meeting and to vote thereat by proxy. The accidental omission to issue the appointments of proxy herein referred to, or the non-receipt of any such invitation by any Member entitled to receive such invitation shall not invalidate the proceedings at any such meeting.

Part XII - Directors

 

75. Number of Directors

 

  (a) Unless otherwise determined by the Company in General Meeting the number of Directors shall not be more than fifteen nor less than three. The continuing Directors may act notwithstanding any vacancy in their body, provided that if the number of the Directors is reduced below the prescribed minimum the remaining Director or Directors shall appoint forthwith an additional Director or additional Directors to make up such minimum or shall convene a general meeting of the Company for the purpose of making such appointment. If there be no Director or Directors able or willing to act then any two Members may summon a general meeting for the purpose of appointing Directors. Any additional Director so appointed shall hold office (subject to the provisions of the Acts and these Articles) only until the conclusion of the annual general meeting of the Company next following such appointment unless he is re-elected during such meeting and he shall not retire by rotation at such meeting or be taken into account in determining the Directors who are to retire by rotation at such meeting.


  (b) A majority of the Directors shall at all times be EU Nationals and the Directors shall procure that, at all times, all executive Directors and the chief executive officer of the Company are EU Nationals.

Share qualification

 

76. A Director shall not require a Share qualification.

 

77. Ordinary remuneration of Directors

The ordinary remuneration of the Directors shall be determined from time to time by an ordinary resolution of the Company and shall be divisible (unless such resolution shall provide otherwise) among the Directors as they may agree, or, failing agreement, equally, except that any Director who shall hold office for part only of the period in respect of which such remuneration is payable shall be entitled only to rank in such division for a proportion of the remuneration related to the period during which he has held office.

 

78. Special remuneration of Directors

Any Director who holds any executive office (including for this purpose the office of Chairman or Deputy Chairman) or who serves on any committee, or who otherwise performs services which in the opinion of the Directors are outside the scope of the ordinary duties of a Director, may be paid such extra remuneration by way of salary, commission or otherwise as the Directors may determine.

 

79. Expenses of Directors

The Directors may be paid all travelling, hotel and other expenses properly incurred by them in connection with their attendance at meetings of Directors or committees of Directors or general meetings or separate meetings of the Holders of any class of Shares or of debentures of the Company or otherwise in connection with the discharge of their duties.

 

80. Alternate Directors

 

  (a)

Any Director may appoint by writing under his hand any person (including another Director) to be his alternate provided always (i) that no such appointment of a person other than a Director as an alternate shall be operative


 

unless and until such appointment shall have been approved by resolution of the Directors and (ii) that any Director who is an EU National may only appoint a person who is an EU National as his alternate.

 

  (b) An alternate Director shall be entitled, subject to his giving to the Company an address within the State, the United Kingdom or the United States of America, to receive notices of all meetings of the Directors and of all meetings of committees of Directors of which his appointor is a member, to attend and vote at any such meeting at which the Director appointing him is not personally present and in the absence of his appointor to exercise all the powers, rights, duties and authorities of his appointor as a Director (other than the right to appoint an alternate hereunder).

 

  (c) Save as otherwise provided in these Articles, an alternate Director shall be deemed for all purposes to be a Director and shall alone be responsible for his own acts and defaults and he shall not be deemed to be the agent of the Director appointing him. The remuneration of any such alternate Director shall be payable out of the remuneration paid to the Director appointing him and shall consist of such portion of the last mentioned remuneration as shall be agreed between the alternate and the Director appointing him.

 

  (d) A Director may revoke at any time the appointment of any alternate appointed by him. If a Director shall die or cease to hold the office of Director the appointment of his alternate shall thereupon cease and determine but if a Director retires by rotation or otherwise but is reappointed or deemed to have been reappointed at the meeting at which he retires, any appointment of an alternate Director made by him which was in force immediately prior to his retirement shall continue after his re-appointment.

 

  (e) Any appointment or revocation pursuant to this Article 80 may be sent by delivery, post, cable, telegram, telex, telefax, electronic mail or any other means of communication approved by the Directors and may bear a printed or facsimile signature of the Director making such appointment or revocation or in any other manner approved by the Directors.

Part XIII - Powers of Directors

 

81. Directors’ powers

Subject to the provisions of the Acts, the Memorandum of Association of the Company and these Articles and to any directions by the Members given by ordinary resolution, not being inconsistent with these Articles or with the Acts, the business of the Company shall be managed by the Directors who may do all such acts and things and exercise all the powers of the Company as are not by the Acts or by these Articles required to be done or exercised by the Company in general meeting. No alteration of the Memorandum of Association of the Company or of these Articles and no such direction shall invalidate any prior act of the Directors which would have been valid if


that alteration had not been made or that direction had not been given. The powers given by this Article shall not be limited by any special power given to the Directors by these Articles and a meeting of Directors at which a quorum is present may exercise all powers exercisable by the Directors.

 

82. Power to delegate

Without prejudice to the generality of the last preceding Article, the Directors may delegate (with power to sub- delegate) any of their powers to any Managing Director or any other Director holding any other executive office and to any committee consisting of one or more Directors together with such other persons (if any) as may be appointed to such committee by the Directors provided that a majority of the members of each committee appointed by the Directors shall at all times consist of Directors and that no resolution of any such committee shall be effective unless a majority of the members of the committee present at the meeting at which it was passed are Directors. Insofar as any such power or discretion is delegated to a committee any reference in these Articles to the exercise by the Directors of the power or discretion so delegated shall be read and construed as if it were a reference to the exercise thereof by such a committee. Any such delegation may be made subject to any conditions the Directors may impose, and either collaterally with or to the exclusion of their own powers and may be revoked. Subject to any such conditions, the proceedings of a committee with two or more members shall be governed by the provisions of these Articles regulating the proceedings of Directors so far as they are capable of applying.

 

83. Appointment of attorneys

The Directors, from time to time and at any time by power of attorney under seal, may appoint any company, firm or person or fluctuating body of persons, whether nominated directly or indirectly by the Directors, to be the attorney or attorneys of the Company for such purposes and with such powers, authorities and discretions (not exceeding those vested in or exercisable by the Directors under these Articles) and for such period and subject to such conditions as they may think fit. Any such power of attorney may contain such provisions for the protection of persons dealing with any such attorney as the Directors may think fit and may authorise any such attorney to sub-delegate all or any of the powers, authorities and discretions vested in him.

 

84. Local management

Without prejudice to the generality of Articles 82 and 83 the Directors may establish any committees, local boards or agencies for managing any of the affairs of the Company, either in the State or elsewhere, and may appoint any persons to be members of such committees, local boards or agencies and may fix their remuneration and may delegate to any committee, local board or agent any of the powers, authorities and discretions vested in the Directors with power to sub-delegate and any such


appointment or delegation may be made upon such terms and subject to such conditions as the Directors may think fit, and the Directors may remove any person so appointed, and may annul or vary any such delegation, but no person dealing in good faith with any such committee, local board or agency, without notice of any such removal, annulment or variation shall be affected thereby.

 

85. Borrowing powers

The Directors may exercise all the powers of the Company to borrow or raise money and to mortgage or charge its undertaking, property, assets, and uncalled capital or any part thereof subject to Part III of the 1983 Act and to issue debentures, debenture stock and other securities whether outright or as collateral security for any debt, liability or obligation of the Company or of any third party, without any limitation as to amount.

 

86. Execution of negotiable instruments

All cheques, promissory notes, drafts, bills of exchange and other negotiable instruments and all receipts for moneys paid to the Company shall be signed, drawn, accepted, endorsed or otherwise executed, as the case may be, by such person or persons and in such manner as the Directors shall determine from time to time by resolution.

 

87. Provision for employees

The Directors may exercise any power conferred by the Acts to make provision for the benefit of persons employed or formerly employed by the Company or any of its subsidiaries in connection with the cessation or the transfer to any person of the whole or any part of the undertaking of the Company or that subsidiary.

Part XIV - Appointment and Retirement of Directors

 

88. Retirement by rotation

 

  (a) At each annual general meeting of the Company one third of the Directors who are subject to retirement by rotation, rounded down to the next whole number if it is a fractional number, shall retire from office, but if there is only one Director who is subject to retirement by rotation then he shall retire.

 

  (b) The Directors, (including any Directors holding executive office pursuant to these Articles) to retire by rotation shall be those who have been longest in office since their last appointment or reappointment but as between persons who became or were last reappointed Directors on the same day those to retire shall be determined (unless they otherwise agree among themselves) by lot.


  (c) A Director who retires at an annual general meeting may be reappointed, if willing to act. If he is not reappointed (or deemed to be reappointed pursuant to these Articles) he shall retain office until the meeting appoints someone in his place or, if it does not do so, until the end of the meeting.

 

  (d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Article 88, if any of the Directors who are Directors of the Company on the date of adoption of these Articles retires prior to or at the Third Annual General Meeting held following the date of adoption of these Articles, other than in accordance with the provisions of this Article 88 (a “Retiring Director”), any Director appointed to replace any such Director or, for the avoidance of doubt, any Director taking the place on the Board originally held by a Retiring Director (in each case a “Substitute Director”) shall be deemed to have been appointed a Director of the Company on the date on which the Retiring Director was appointed a Director of the Company, solely for the purpose of determining which of the Directors are to retire by rotation in accordance with the provisions of this Article 88. If no Director is appointed to replace any such Retiring Director or any Substitute Director then, notwithstanding that no such Director is appointed, none of the Directors of the Company on the date of adoption of these Articles shall be required to retire in accordance with the provisions of this Article 88 at an earlier date than he could otherwise have been required to retire had such Retiring Director not retired and the number of Directors to retire at any annual general meeting in accordance with the provisions of this Article 88 shall accordingly be reduced, if necessary. The terms of this Article 88(d) shall cease to apply following the Third Annual General Meeting held following the date of adoption of these Articles.

 

  (e) Notwithstanding any of the foregoing provisions of this Article 88, in order to ensure that all of the Directors have been subject to retirement by rotation at one of any three consecutive Annual General Meetings of the Company, any Directors who has not been subject to retirement by rotation at either of the two previous Annual General Meetings of the Company shall retire at the third of such Annual General Meetings.

 

89. Deemed reappointment

If the Company, at the meeting at which a Director retires by rotation, does not fill the vacancy, the retiring Director, if willing to act, shall be deemed to have been re-appointed unless at the meeting it is resolved not to fill the vacancy or a resolution for the reappointment of the Director is put to the meeting and lost.

 

90. Eligibility for appointment

No person other than a Director retiring by rotation shall be appointed a Director at any general meeting unless he is recommended by the Directors or, not less than seven


nor more than forty two Clear Days before the date appointed for the meeting, a notice executed by a Member entitled to vote at the meeting has been given to the Company of the intention to propose that person for appointment stating the particulars which would be required, if he were so appointed, to be included in the Company’s register of Directors together with notice executed by that person of his willingness to be appointed. No Director shall be required to retire on account of age.

 

91. Appointment of additional Directors

Subject as aforesaid, the Company by ordinary resolution may appoint a person to be a Director either to fill a vacancy or as an additional Director and may also determine the rotation in which any additional Directors are to retire.

The Directors may appoint a person who is willing to act to be a Director, either to fill a vacancy or as an additional Director, provided that the appointment does not cause the number of Directors to exceed any number fixed by or in accordance with these Articles as the maximum number of Directors. A Director so appointed shall hold office only until the next following annual general meeting and shall not be taken into account in determining the Directors who are to retire by rotation at the meeting. If not re-appointed at such annual general meeting, such Director shall vacate office at the conclusion thereof.

Part XV - Disqualification and Removal of Directors

 

92. Disqualification of Directors

The office of a Director and, in the case of (f) the office of the Chairman, shall be vacated ipso facto if:-

 

  (a) he ceases to be a Director by virtue of any provision of the Acts or he becomes prohibited by law from being a Director;

 

  (b) he becomes bankrupt or makes any arrangement or composition with his creditors generally;

 

  (c) in the opinion of a majority of his co-Directors, he becomes incapable by reason of mental disorder of discharging his duties as a Director;

 

  (d) (not being a Director holding for a fixed term an executive office in his capacity as a Director) he resigns his office by notice to the Company;

 

  (e) he is convicted of an indictable offence, unless the Directors determine otherwise;


  (f) the Directors resolve to remove him pursuant to Article 41;

 

  (g) he shall have been absent for more than six consecutive months without permission of the Directors from meetings of the Directors held during that period and his alternate director (if any) shall not have attended any such meeting in his place during such period and the Directors pass a resolution that by reason of such absence he has vacated office;

 

  (h) he is removed from office by notice in writing served upon him signed by all his co-directors; if he holds an appointment to an executive office which thereby automatically determines, such removal shall be deemed an act of the Company and shall have effect without prejudice to any claim for damages for breach of any contract of service between him and the Company.

 

93. Removal of Directors

The Company, by ordinary resolution of which extended notice has been given in accordance with the provisions of the Acts, may remove any Director before the expiry of his period of office notwithstanding anything in these Articles or in any agreement between the Company and such Director and may, if thought fit, by ordinary resolution appoint another Director in his stead. The person appointed shall be subject to retirement at the same time as if he had become a Director on the date on which the Director in whose place he is appointed was last appointed a Director. Nothing in this Article shall be taken as depriving a person removed hereunder of compensation or damages payable to him in respect of the termination of his appointment as Director or of any appointment terminating with that of Director.

Part XVI - Directors’ Offices and Interests

 

94. Executive offices

 

  (a) The Directors may appoint one or more of their body to the office of Managing Director or to any other executive office under the Company (including, where considered appropriate, the office of the Chairman) on such terms and for such period as they may determine and, without prejudice to the terms of any contract entered into in any particular case, may revoke any such appointment at any time.

 

  (b) A Director holding any such executive office shall receive such remuneration, whether in addition to or in substitution for his ordinary remuneration as a Director and whether by way of salary, commission, participation in profits or otherwise or in any combination of the foregoing as the Directors may determine.


  (c) The appointment of any Director to the office of Chairman or Managing Director shall determine automatically if he ceases to be a Director (other than where he is re-appointed as a Director at an Annual General Meeting of the Company having retired by rotation in accordance with these Articles) but without prejudice to any claim for damages for breach of any contract of service between him and the Company.

 

  (d) The appointment of any Director to any other executive office shall not determine automatically if he ceases from any cause to be a Director unless the contract or resolution under which he holds office shall expressly state otherwise, in which event such determination shall be without prejudice to any claim for damages for breach of any contract of service between him and the Company.

 

  (e) A Director may hold any other office or place of profit under the Company (except that of Auditor) in conjunction with his office of Director, and may act in a professional capacity to the Company, on such terms as to remuneration and other-wise as the Directors shall arrange.

 

95. Disclosure of interests by Directors

A Director or shadow director of the Company who is in any way, whether directly or indirectly, interested in a contract or proposed contract with the Company shall comply with the provisions of Section 194 of the 1963 Act with regard to the disclosure of such interest by declaration.

 

96. Directors’ interests

 

  (a) A Director notwithstanding his office but subject to his having disclosed any interest which he is required to disclose whether by these Articles or the Acts in accordance with these Articles or the Acts as the case may be:-

 

  (i) may be a party to, or otherwise interested in, any transaction or arrangement with the Company or any subsidiary or Associated Company thereof or in which the Company or any subsidiary or Associated Company thereof is otherwise interested;

 

  (ii) may be a Director or other officer of, or employed by, or a party to any transaction or arrangement with, or otherwise interested in, any body corporate promoted by the Company or in which the Company or any subsidiary or Associated Company thereof is otherwise interested; and


  (iii) shall not be accountable, by reason of his office, to the Company for any benefit which he derives from any such office or employment or from any such transaction or arrangement or from any interest in any such body corporate and no such transaction or arrangement shall be liable to be avoided on the ground of any such interest or benefit.

 

  (b) No Director or intended Director shall be disqualified by his office from contracting with the Company either as vendor, purchaser or otherwise, nor shall any such contract or any contract or arrangement entered into by or on behalf of the other company in which any Director shall be in any way interested be avoided nor shall any Director so contracting or being so interested be liable to account to the Company for any profit realised by any such contract or arrangement by reason solely of such Director holding that office or of the fiduciary relationship thereby established. The nature of a Director’s interest must be declared by him at the meeting of the Directors at which the question of entering into the contract or arrangement is first taken into consideration or, if the Director was not at the date of that meeting interested in the proposed contract or arrangements at the next meeting of the Directors held after he became so interested, and in a case where the Director becomes interested in a contract or arrangement after it is made at the first meeting of the Directors held after he becomes so interested.

 

  (c) A copy of every declaration made and notice given under this Article shall be entered within three days after the making or giving thereof in a book kept for this purpose. Such book shall be open for inspection without charge by any Director, Secretary, Auditor or Member of the Company at the Office and shall be produced at every general meeting of the Company and at any meeting of the Directors if any Director so requests in sufficient time to enable the book to be available at the meeting.

 

  (d) For the purposes of this Article:-

 

  (i) a general notice given to the Directors that a Director is to be regarded as having an interest of the nature and extent specified in the notice in any transaction or arrangement in which a specified person or class of persons or company is interested shall be deemed to be a disclosure that the Director has an interest in any such transaction of the nature and extent so specified with the relevant party; and

 

  (ii) an interest of which a Director has no knowledge and of which it is unreasonable to expect him to have knowledge shall not be treated as an interest of his.


97. Restriction on Directors’ voting

 

  (a) Save as otherwise provided by these Articles, a Director shall not vote at a meeting of the Directors or a committee of Directors on any resolution concerning a matter in which he has, directly or indirectly or together with any person or persons connected with him an interest which is material or a duty which conflicts or may conflict with the interests of the Company. A Director shall not be counted in the quorum present at a meeting in relation to any such resolution on which he is not entitled to vote.

 

  (b) A Director shall be entitled (unless he has some material interest or duty which conflicts or may conflict with the interests of the Company which is not indicated below) to vote (and be counted in the quorum) in respect of any resolutions concerning any of the following matters, namely:-

 

  (i) the giving of any security, guarantee or indemnity to him in respect of money lent by him to the Company or any of its subsidiary or Associated Companies or obligations incurred by him on behalf of the Company or any of its subsidiaries at the request of or for the benefit of the Company or any of its subsidiary or Associated Companies;

 

  (ii) the giving of any security, guarantee or indemnity to a third party in respect of a debt or obligation of the Company or any of its subsidiary or Associated Companies for which he himself has assumed responsibility in whole or in part and whether alone or jointly with others under a guarantee or indemnity or by the giving of security;

 

  (iii) any proposal concerning any offer of Shares or debentures or other securities of or by the Company or any of its subsidiary or Associated Companies for subscription, purchase or exchange in which offer he is entitled to participate as a holder of Shares, debentures or other securities or in which he is or is to be interested as a participant in the underwriting or sub-underwriting thereof;

 

  (iv) any proposal concerning any other company in which he is interested, directly or indirectly or together with any person or persons connected with him and whether as an officer or shareholder or otherwise howsoever, provided that he is not the holder of or beneficially interested, directly or indirectly in one per cent. or more of the issued shares of any class of such company or of the voting rights available to members of such company (any such interest being deemed for the purposes of this Article to be a material interest in all circumstances);


  (v) any proposal concerning the adoption, modification or operation of a superannuation fund or retirement benefits scheme under which he may benefit and which has been approved by or is subject to and conditional upon approval for taxation purposes by the appropriate Revenue authorities which does not award the Director any privilege or benefit not generally awarded to the employees to whom such arrangement or scheme relates;

 

  (vi) any proposal concerning the adoption, modification or operation of any scheme for enabling employees (including full time executive Directors) of the Company and/or any subsidiary thereof to acquire Shares in the Company or any arrangement for the benefit of employees of the Company or any of its subsidiaries which does not award the Director any privilege or benefit not generally awarded to the employees to whom such scheme or arrangement relates; or

 

  (vii) any proposal concerning the giving of any indemnity pursuant to Article 139 or the discharge of the cost of any insurance cover to be arranged in connection therewith.

 

(c) Where proposals are under consideration concerning the appointment (including fixing or varying the terms of appointment) of two or more Directors to offices or employments with the Company or any company in which the Company is interested such proposals may be divided and considered in relation to each Director separately and in such case each of the Directors concerned (if not debarred from voting thereon), shall be entitled to vote (and be counted in the quorum) in respect of each resolution except that concerning his own appointment.

 

(d) If a question arises at a meeting of Directors or of a committee of Directors as to the materiality of a Director’s interest or as to the right of any Director to vote and such question is not resolved by his voluntarily agreeing to abstain from voting, such question may be referred, before the conclusion of the meeting, to the chairman of the meeting and his ruling in relation to any Director other than himself shall be final and conclusive except in a case where the nature or extent of the interest of such Director has not been fully and fairly disclosed; provided that, if such question arises in relation to the chairman of the meeting, he shall temporarily vacate the chair.

 

(e) For the purposes of this Article, an interest of a person who is the spouse or a minor child of a Director shall be treated as an interest of the Director and in relation to an alternate director, an interest of his appointor shall be treated as an interest of the alternate director.


  (f) The Company by ordinary resolution may suspend or relax the provisions of this Article to any extent or ratify any transaction not duly authorised by reason of a contravention of this Article.

 

98. Entitlement to grant pensions

The Directors may provide benefits, whether by way of pensions, gratuities or otherwise, for any Director, former Director or other officer or former officer of the Company or to any person who holds or has held any employment with the Company or with any body corporate which is or has been a subsidiary of or an Associated Company of the Company or a predecessor in business of the Company, any subsidiary of the Company or of any such Associated Company and to any member of his family or any person who is or was dependent on him and may set up, establish, support, alter, maintain and continue any scheme for providing all or any such benefits and for such purposes any Director accordingly may be, become or remain a member of, or rejoin, any scheme and receive or retain for his own benefit all benefits to which he may be or become entitled thereunder. The Directors may pay out of the funds of the Company any premiums, contributions or sums payable by the Company under the provisions of any such scheme in respect of any of the persons or class of persons above referred to who are or may be or become members thereof.

Part XVII - Proceedings of Directors

 

99. Convening and regulation of Directors’ meetings

 

  (a) Subject to the provisions of these Articles, the Directors may regulate their proceedings as they think fit. A Director may, and the Secretary at the request of a Director shall, call a meeting of the Directors. Any Director may waive notice of any meeting and any such waiver may be retrospective. If the Directors so resolve, it shall not be necessary to give notice of a meeting of Directors to any Director who, being a resident of the State, is for the time being absent from the State. At least seven days notice must be given to each Director of a meeting of the Directors.

 

  (b) Notice of a meeting of the Directors shall be deemed to be duly given to a Director if it is in writing and is either given to him or is sent by delivery, post, cable, telegram, telex, telefax, electronic mail or otherwise in electronic form, (whether as an electronic communication or otherwise) or any other means of communication approved by the Directors to him at his last known address or any other address or number (including any address or number used for the purpose of communication by way of electronic mail or other electronic communication) given by him to the Company for this purpose.


100. Quorum for Directors’ meetings

 

  (a) Subject to Article 100(d), the quorum for the transaction of the business of the Directors may be fixed by the Directors and unless so fixed at any other number shall be three. A person who holds office only as an alternate director shall, if his appointer is not present, be counted in a quorum but notwithstanding that such person may act as alternate director for more than one Director he shall not count as more than one for the purposes of determining whether a quorum is present.

 

  (b) Any Director who ceases to be a Director at a meeting of the Directors may continue to be present and to act as a Director and to be counted in the quorum until the termination of the meeting provided no other Director objects and provided also that otherwise a quorum of Directors would not be present.

 

  (c) The continuing Directors or a sole Director may act notwithstanding any vacancies in their number but if the number of Directors is less than the number fixed as the quorum, they may act only for the purpose of filling vacancies or of calling a general meeting.

 

(d)    (i)    Until the Fourth Annual General Meeting of the Company held following the date of adoption of these Articles, the meetings of the Board of Directors of the Company shall not be quorate unless any one of David Bonderman, Jeffrey Shaw or Richard Schifter or any alternate Director of any such party appointed in accordance with these Articles of Association attends or such parties consent to the meeting being held notwithstanding that none of them are present, provided however that if any meeting of the Board of Directors is deemed inquorate because of the application of this Article 100(d), this Article 100(d) shall not apply to the next following meeting of the Board of Directors. If either David Bonderman, Jeffrey Shaw or Richard Schifter ceases to be a Director of the Company the reference to him in this Article 100 shall be deemed to be deleted automatically.
   (ii)    Notwithstanding any other provision of this Article 100, a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Company shall not be quorate unless a majority of the Directors present are EU nationals.

 

101. Voting at Directors’ meetings

 

  (a) Questions arising at any meeting of Directors shall be decided by a majority of votes. Where there is an equality of votes, the chairman of the meeting shall not have a second or casting vote.

 

  (b)

Subject as hereinafter provided, each Director present and voting shall have one vote and in addition to his own vote shall be entitled to one vote in respect


 

of each other Director not present at the meeting who shall have authorised him in respect of such meeting to vote for such other Director in his absence. Any such authority may relate generally to all meetings of the Directors or to any specified meeting or meetings and must be in writing and may be sent by delivery, post, cable, telegram, telex, telefax,, or may be provided in electronic form (whether as an electronic communication or otherwise) or sent by any other means of communication approved by the Directors and may bear a printed or facsimile signature of the Director giving such authority or may be otherwise authenticated in such manner as may be prescribed by the Directors. The authority must be delivered to the Secretary prior to or must be produced at the first meeting at which a vote is to be cast pursuant thereto provided that no Director shall be entitled to any vote at a meeting on behalf of another director pursuant to this paragraph if the other Director shall have appointed an alternate director and that alternate Director is present at the meeting at which the Director proposes to vote pursuant to this paragraph.

 

102. Electronic Meetings

 

  (a) All or any of the directors, or all or any of the members of a committee of directors (a “Committee”), can take part in a meeting of the directors, or of a Committee as the case may be, by the use of conference telephone, video-conferencing or other telecommunications equipment designed to allow all persons participating to hear each other and speak (an “Electronic Meeting”).

 

  (b) A person taking part in this way will be counted as being present at the meeting, and an Electronic Meeting will be considered to be a meeting of directors, or of a Committee as the case may be, for the purpose of passing resolutions but not for doing any other act or thing which, under specific requirements of the Acts, must be done at a meeting of directors.

 

  (c) A person may not cease to take part in an Electronic Meeting by disconnecting his telephone or other means of communication unless he has previously obtained the express consent of the chairman of the meeting and a person shall be conclusively presumed to have been present and to have formed part of the quorum at all times during the meeting unless he has previously obtained the express consent of the chairman of the meeting to leave the meeting.

 

  (d) An electronic meeting shall be deemed to take place where the largest group of those participating is assembled, or if there is no such group, where the chairman of the meeting is present.

 

  (e)

The provisions of these regulations, in so far as they relate to the summoning of meetings of directors or of Committees, the appointment and powers of a chairman, the transaction of business, alternates, quorum, voting, adjournment and the keeping of minutes, will apply to an Electronic Meeting as if it were a


 

meeting of directors, or of a Committee as the case may be, at which all those taking part were in the physical presence of each other.

 

  (f) A minute of the proceedings of an Electronic meeting shall be sufficient evidence of such proceedings and of the observance of all necessary formalities if certified as a correct minute by the chairman of the meeting.

 

103. Chairman of the board of Directors

Subject to any appointment to the office of Chairman made pursuant to these Articles, the Directors may elect a chairman of their meetings and determine the period for which he is to hold office, but if no such chairman is elected or if at any meeting the chairman is unwilling to act or is not present within five minutes after the time appointed for holding the same the Deputy Chairman if any, shall be the chairman of the meeting or if he is unwilling to act or is not present within five minutes after the time appointed for holding the same the Directors present may choose one of their number to be chairman of the meeting.

 

104. Validity of acts of Directors

All acts done by any meeting of the Directors or of a committee of Directors or by any person acting as a Director, notwithstanding that it be afterwards discovered that there was some defect in the appointment of any such Director or person acting as aforesaid, or that they or any of them were disqualified from holding office or had vacated office, shall be as valid as if every such person had been duly appointed and was qualified to be a Director, had continued to be a Director and had been entitled to vote.

 

105. Directors’ resolutions or other documents in writing

A resolution or other document in writing signed (or otherwise authenticated in a manner determined by the Directors) by all the Directors entitled to receive notice of a meeting of Directors or of a committee of Directors shall be as valid as if it had been passed at a meeting of Directors or (as the case may be) a committee of Directors; duly convened and held and may consist of several documents in the like form each signed (or otherwise authenticated as aforesaid, as the case may be) by one or more Directors but a resolution signed (or otherwise authenticated as aforesaid, as the case may be) by an alternate director need not also be signed by his appointer and, if it is signed (or otherwise authenticated as aforesaid, as the case may be) by a Director who has appointed an alternate director, it need not be signed by the alternate director in that capacity. Such resolution or other document or documents when duly signed (or otherwise authenticated, as aforesaid as the case may be) may be delivered or transmitted (unless the Directors shall otherwise determine either generally or in any specific case) by facsimile transmission or some other similar means of transmitting


the contents of documents or may be delivered or transmitted in electronic form, whether as an electronic communication or otherwise provided such manner of delivery or transmission has been approved by the Directors.

Part XVIII - The Secretary

 

106. Appointment of secretary

The Secretary shall be appointed by the Directors for such term, at such remuneration and upon such conditions as they may think fit and any Secretary so appointed may be removed by them. Anything required or authorised by the Acts or these Articles to be done by or to the Secretary may be done by or to any assistant or acting Secretary or, if there is no assistant or acting Secretary readily available and capable of acting, by or to any officer or employee of the Company authorised generally or specially in that behalf by the Directors: Provided that any provision of the Acts or these Articles requiring or authorising a thing to be done by or to a Director and the Secretary shall not be satisfied by its being done by or to the same person acting both as a Director and as, or in the place of, the Secretary.

Part XIX - The Seal

 

107. Use of Seal

The Directors shall ensure that the Seal shall be used only by the authority of the Directors or of a committee authorised by the Directors.

 

108. Seal for use abroad

The Company may exercise the powers conferred by the Acts with regard to having an official seal for use abroad and such powers shall be vested in the Directors.

 

109. Signature of sealed instruments

 

  (a) Subject as provided in paragraph (b) of this Article, every instrument to which the Seal shall be affixed shall, as part of the sealing process, be signed by at least one Director or other person duly authorised in that behalf by the Directors and by the Secretary or one of the persons authorised as aforesaid (who has not already signed) and, in favour of any purchaser or person dealing with the Company in good faith, such signatures shall be conclusive evidence of the fact that the Seal has been properly affixed.

 

  (b)

The Directors may by resolution determine, either generally or in any particular case, that in respect of certificates for Shares or debentures or other securities of the Company, the signature of any Director or of the Secretary or


 

other person authorised by the Directors as aforesaid forming part of the sealing process may be applied or effected by non-autographic means, or that such certificates shall bear no signatures, and in favour of any registered holder or other person acquiring any such Shares or debentures or other securities in good faith a certificate executed in any of the modes of execution authorised herein shall be as valid and effective as if such certificate was issued under the Seal of the Company pursuant to these Articles.

Part XX - Dividends and Reserves

 

110. Declaration of dividends

 

  (a) Subject to the provisions of the Acts, the Company by ordinary resolution may declare dividends in accordance with the respective rights of the Members, but no dividend shall exceed the amount recommended by the Directors. Dividends may be declared or paid in any currency.

 

  (b) The Directors may at their discretion make provision to enable any Holder of Ordinary Shares as they shall from time to time determine to receive dividends duly declared in a currency or currencies other than Irish pounds. For the purposes of the circulation of the amount receivable in respect of any dividend, the rate of exchange to be used to determine the foreign currency equivalent of any sum payable as a dividend shall be such market rate selected by the Directors as they shall consider appropriate ruling at the close of business in Dublin on the date which is the business day last preceding (a) in the case of a dividend to be declared by the Company in general meeting, the date on which the Directors publicly announce their intention to recommend that specific dividend and (b) in the case of any other dividend, the date on which the Directors publicly announce their intention to pay that specific dividend.

 

  (c) Where a Holder of Ordinary Shares has elected or agreed pursuant to provision made under these Articles to receive dividends in a currency other than Irish pounds the Directors may at their discretion make such arrangements as they deem necessary to enable payment of the dividend to be made to such Holders in such currency for value on the date on which the relevant dividend is paid, or such later date as the Directors may determine.

 

111. Scrip dividends

The Directors may, if authorised by an ordinary resolution of the Company, offer any Holders of Ordinary Shares the right to elect to receive Ordinary Shares, credited as fully paid, instead of cash in respect of the whole (or some part, to be determined by the Directors) of any dividend specified by the ordinary resolution. The following provisions shall apply (subject always to the provisions of the Acts):


  (a) An ordinary resolution may specify a particular dividend, or may specify all or any dividends declared within a specified period, but such period may not end later than the beginning of the annual general meeting next following the date of the meeting at which the ordinary resolution is passed.

 

  (b) The entitlement of each Holder of Ordinary Shares to new Ordinary Shares shall be such that the relevant value of the entitlement shall be as nearly as possible equal to (but not greater than) the cash amount (disregarding any tax credit) of the dividend that such holder elects to forgo. For this purpose, “relevant value” shall be calculated by reference to the average of the middle market quotations for the Company’s Ordinary Shares on the Irish Stock Exchange as derived from the daily official list, on the day on which the Ordinary Shares are first quoted “ex” the relevant dividend and the four subsequent dealing days, or in such manner as may be determined by or in accordance with the ordinary resolution. A certificate or report by the auditors as to the amount of the relevant value in respect of any dividend shall be conclusive evidence of that amount.

 

  (c) On or as soon as practicable after announcing that the Company is to declare or recommend any dividend, the Directors, if they intend to offer an election in respect of that dividend, shall also announce that intention, and shall after determining the basis of allotment, if they decide to proceed with the offer, notify the Holders of Ordinary Shares in writing of the right of election offered to them and specify the procedure to be followed and place at which, and the latest time by which elections must be lodged in order to be effective. Any election by a holder of Ordinary Shares shall be binding on every successor in title to the Ordinary Shares in respect of which the election is made.

 

  (d) The Directors shall not proceed with any election unless the Company has sufficient unissued Shares authorised for issue and sufficient reserves or funds that may be capitalised to give effect to it after the basis of allotment is determined.

 

  (e) The Directors may exclude from any offer any Holders of Ordinary Shares where the Directors believe that the making of the offer to them would or might involve the contravention of the laws of any territory or that for any other reason the offer should not be made to them.

 

  (f)

The dividend (or that part of the dividend in respect of which a right of election has been offered) shall not be payable on Ordinary Shares in respect of which an election has been made (“the elected Ordinary Shares”) and instead additional Ordinary Shares shall be allotted to the holders of the elected Ordinary Shares on the basis of allotment calculated as stated. For such purpose the Directors shall capitalise, out of any amount for the time being standing to the credit of any reserve or fund (including the profit and loss account) whether or not the same is available for distribution as the


 

Directors may determine, a sum equal to the aggregate nominal amount of the additional Ordinary Shares to be allotted on that basis and apply it in paying up in full the appropriate number of unissued Ordinary Shares for allotment and distribution to the holders of the elected Ordinary Shares on that basis and the provisions of Article 123 shall apply mutatis mutandis to any capitalisation made pursuant to this Article.

 

  (g) The additional Ordinary Shares when allotted shall rank pari passu in all respects with the fully-paid Ordinary Shares then in issue except that they will not be entitled to participation in the relevant dividend.

 

(h)    (i)    The Directors may do all acts and things considered necessary or expedient to give effect to any such capitalisation with full power for the Directors to make such provisions as they think fit in the case of Shares becoming distributable in fractions (including provisions whereby, in whole or in part, the fractional entitlements are disregarded and, the benefit of fractional entitlements accrues to the Company rather than to the Members concerned). The Directors may authorise any person to enter on behalf of all the Members interested into an agreement with the Company providing for such capitalisation and matters incidental thereto and any agreement made under such authority shall be effective and binding on all concerned. The Directors may, in their absolute discretion, if it shall in their opinion seem expedient, suspend or terminate (whether temporarily or otherwise) such right to elect and may do such acts and things considered necessary or expedient with regard to, or in order to effect, any such suspension or termination;
   (ii)    Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Directors may at any time prior to payment of the relevant dividend determine, if it appears to them desirable to do so because of a change in circumstances, that the dividend shall be payable wholly in cash and if they so determine then all elections made shall be disregarded. The relevant dividend shall be payable wholly in cash if the Ordinary Shares of the Company cease to be listed or dealt in on any recognised stock exchange at any time prior to the due date of issue of the additional Ordinary Shares or, if such listing is suspended and not reinstated by the date immediately preceding the due date of such issue.

 

112. Interim and fixed dividends

Subject to the provisions of the Acts, the Directors may declare and pay interim dividends if it appears to them that they are justified by the profits of the Company available for distribution. If the share capital is divided into different classes, the Directors may declare and pay interim dividends on Shares which confer deferred or non-preferred rights with regard to dividend as well as on Shares which confer preferential rights with regard to dividend, but subject always to any restrictions for


the time being in force (whether under these Articles, under the terms of issue of any Shares or under any agreement to which the Company is a party, or otherwise) relating to the application, or the priority of application, of the Company’s profits available for distribution or to the declaration or as the case may be the payment of dividends by the Company. Subject as aforesaid, the Directors may also pay at intervals settled by them any dividend payable at a fixed rate if it appears to them that the profits available for distribution justify the payment. Provided the Directors act in good faith they shall not incur any liability to the Holders of Shares conferring preferred rights for any loss they may suffer by the lawful payment of an interim dividend on any Shares having deferred or non-preferred rights.

 

113. Payment of dividends

 

  (a) Except as otherwise provided by the rights attached to Shares, all dividends shall be declared and paid according to the amounts paid up on the Shares on which the dividend is paid. Subject as aforesaid, all dividends shall be apportioned and paid proportionately to the amounts paid or credited as paid on the Shares during any portion or portions of the period in respect of which the dividend is paid; but, if any Share is issued on terms providing that it shall rank for dividend as from a particular date, such Share shall rank for dividend accordingly. For the purposes of this Article, no amount paid on a Share in advance of calls shall be treated as paid on a Share.

 

  (b) If several persons are registered as joint Holders of any Share, any one of them may give effectual receipts for any dividend or other moneys payable on or in respect of the Share.

 

114. Deductions from dividends

The Directors may deduct from any dividend or other moneys payable to any Member in respect of a Share any moneys presently payable by him to the Company in respect of that Share.

 

115. Dividends in specie

A general meeting declaring a dividend may direct, upon the recommendation of the Directors, that it shall be satisfied wholly or partly by the distribution of assets (and, in particular, of paid up Shares, debentures or debenture stock of any other company or in any one or more of such ways) and the Directors shall give effect to such resolution. Where any difficulty arises in regard to the distribution, the Directors may settle the same as they think expedient and in particular may issue fractional certificates and fix the value for distribution of such specific assets or any part thereof in order to adjust the rights of all the parties and may determine that cash payments shall be made to any Members upon the footing of the value so fixed and may vest any such specific assets in trustees.


116. Payment of dividends by post

Any dividend or other moneys payable in respect of any Share may be paid by cheque or warrant sent by post, at the risk of the person or persons entitled thereto, to the registered address of the Holder or, where there are joint Holders, to the registered address of that one of the joint Holders who is first named on the Register or to such person and to such address as the Holder or joint Holders may in writing direct. Every such cheque or warrant shall be made payable to the order of the person to whom it is sent and payment of the cheque or warrant shall be a good discharge to the Company. Any joint Holder or other person jointly entitled to a Share as aforesaid may give receipts for any dividend or other moneys payable in respect of the Share. The Directors may also, in circumstances which they consider appropriate, arrange for payment of dividends by electronic funds transfer, bank transfer or by any other method selected by the Directors from time to time and in such event the debiting of the Company’s account in respect of the appropriate amount shall be deemed a good discharge of the Company’s obligations in respect of any payment made by any such method.

 

117. Dividends not to bear interest

No dividend or other moneys payable by the Company on or in respect of any Shares shall bear interest against the Company unless otherwise provided by the rights attached to the Shares.

 

118. Payment to Holders on a particular date

Any resolution declaring a dividend on Shares of any class, whether a resolution of the Company in general meeting or a resolution of the Directors, may specify that the same may be payable to the persons registered as the Holders of such Shares at the close of business on a particular date, notwithstanding that it may be a date prior to that on which the resolution is passed, and thereupon the dividend shall be payable to them in accordance with their respective holdings so registered, but without prejudice to the rights inter se of transferors and transferees of any such Shares in respect of such dividend. The provisions of this Article shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to capitalisations to be effected in pursuance of these Articles.

 

119. Unclaimed dividends

If the Directors so resolve, any dividend which has remained unclaimed for twelve years from the date of its declaration shall be forfeited and cease to remain owing by the Company. The payment by the Directors of any unclaimed dividend or other


moneys payable in respect of a Share into a separate account shall not constitute the Company a trustee in respect thereof. Any dividend, interest or other sum payable which remains unclaimed for one year after having been declared may be invested or otherwise made use of by the Directors for the benefit of the Company until claimed.

 

120. Reserves

Before recommending any dividend, whether preferential or otherwise, the Directors may carry to reserve out of the profits of the Company such sums as they think proper. All sums standing to reserve may be applied from time to time at the discretion of the Directors for any purpose to which the profits of the Company may be properly applied and at the like discretion may be either employed in the business of the Company or invested in such investments as the Directors may lawfully determine. The Directors may divide the reserve into such special funds as they think fit and may consolidate into one fund any special funds or any parts of any special funds into which the reserve may have been divided as they may lawfully determine. Any sum which the Directors may carry to reserve out of the unrealised profits of the Company shall not be mixed with any reserve to which profits available for distribution have been carried. The Directors may also carry forward, without placing the same to reserve, any profits which they may think it prudent not to divide.

Part XXI - Accounts

 

121. Accounts

 

  (a) The Directors shall cause to be kept proper books of account, whether in the form of documents or otherwise, that:

 

  (i) correctly record and explain the transactions of the Company,

 

  (ii) will at any time enable the financial position of the Company to be determined with reasonable accuracy,

 

  (iii) will enable the Directors to ensure that any balance sheet, profit and loss account or income and expenditure account of the Company complies with the requirements of the Acts, and

 

  (iv) will enable the accounts of the Company to be readily and properly audited.

 

  (b) The books of account of the Company shall be kept on a continuous and consistent basis, that is to say, the entries therein shall be made in a timely manner and be consistent from one year to the next.


  (c) Proper books shall not be deemed to be kept if there are not kept such books of account as comply with the Acts and as are necessary to give a true and fair view of the state of the Company’s affairs and to explain its transactions.

 

  (d) The books of account shall be kept at the Office or, subject to the provisions of the Acts, at such other place as the Directors think fit and shall be open at all reasonable times to the inspection of the Directors.

 

  (e) In accordance with the provisions of the Acts, the Directors shall cause to be prepared and to be laid before the annual general meeting of the Company from time to time such profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, group accounts and reports as are required by the Acts to be prepared and laid before such meeting.

 

  (f) A copy of every balance sheet (including every document required by law to be annexed thereto) which is to be laid before the annual general meeting of the Company together with a copy of the Directors’ report and Auditors’ report shall be sent, not less than twenty-one Clear Days before the date of the annual general meeting, to every person entitled under the provisions of the Acts to receive them; and the required number of copies of these documents shall be forwarded at the same time to the appropriate sections of The Stock Exchanges.

 

  (g) Auditors shall be appointed and removed and their duties regulated in accordance with the Acts.

Part XXII - Capitalisation of Profits or Reserves

 

122. Capitalisation of profits and reserves

Without prejudice to any powers conferred on the Directors by these Articles, the Company in general meeting may resolve, upon the recommendation of the Directors, that any sum for the time being standing to the credit of any of the Company’s reserves (including any capital redemption reserve fund or Share premium account) or to the credit of the profit and loss account be capitalised and applied on behalf of the Members who would have been entitled to receive that sum if it had been distributed by way of dividend and in the same proportions either in or towards paying up amounts for the time being unpaid on any Shares held by them respectively, or in paying up in full unissued Shares or debentures of the Company of a nominal amount equal to the sum capitalised (such Shares or debentures to be allotted and distributed credited as fully paid up to and amongst such Holders in the proportions aforesaid) or partly in one way and partly in another, so, however, that the only purposes for which


such sums standing to the credit of the capital redemption reserve fund or the share premium account shall be applied shall be those permitted by the Acts.

 

123. Capitalisation and use of non-distributable profits and reserves

Without prejudice to any powers conferred on the Directors as aforesaid, the Company in general meeting may resolve, on the recommendation of the Directors, that it is desirable to capitalise any part of the amount for the time being standing to the credit of any of the Company’s reserve accounts or to the credit of the profit and loss account which is not available for distribution by applying such sum in paying up in full unissued Shares to be allotted as fully paid bonus Shares to those Members of the Company who would have been entitled to that sum if it were distributable and had been distributed by way of dividend (and in the same proportions) and the Directors shall give effect to such resolution.

 

124. Implementation of capitalisation issues

Whenever such a resolution is passed in pursuance of either of the two immediately preceding Articles, the Directors shall make all appropriations and applications of the undivided profits resolved to be capitalised thereby and all allotments and issues of fully paid Shares or debentures, if any, and generally shall do all acts and things required to give effect thereto with full power to the Directors to make such provisions as they shall think fit for the case of Shares or debentures becoming distributable in fractions (and, in particular, without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, either to disregard such fractions or to sell the Shares or debentures represented by such fractions and distribute the net proceeds of such sale to and for the benefit of the Company or to and for the benefit of the Members otherwise entitled to such fractions in due proportions) and to authorise any person to enter on behalf of all the Members concerned into an agreement with the Company providing for the allotment to them respectively, credited as fully paid up, of any further Shares or debentures to which they may become entitled on such capitalisation or, as the case may require, for the payment up by the application thereto of their respective proportions of the profits resolved to be capitalised of the amounts remaining unpaid on their existing Shares and any agreement made under such authority shall be binding on all such Members.

Part XXIII - Notices

 

125. Notices in writing or by electronic communication

Any notice to be given, served or delivered pursuant to these Articles shall be in writing or by electronic communication.


126. Service of notices

 

  (a) A notice or document (including a Share certificate) to be given, served or delivered in pursuance of these Articles or otherwise may be given to, served on or delivered to any Member by the Company:

 

  (i) by handing same to him or his authorised agent;

 

  (ii) by leaving the same at his registered address;

 

  (iii) by sending the same by the post in a pre-paid cover addressed to him at his registered address; or

 

  (iv) by delivering or making the same available in electronic form, whether as an electronic communication or otherwise subject to and in accordance with the provisions of these Articles.

 

  (b) Where a notice or document is given, served or delivered pursuant to sub paragraph (a)(i) or (ii) of this Article, the giving, service or delivery thereof shall be deemed to have been effected at the time the same was handed to the Member or his authorised agent, or left at his registered address (as the case may be).

 

  (c) Where a notice or document is given, served or delivered pursuant to sub-paragraph (a)(iii) of this Article, the giving, service or delivery thereof shall be deemed to have been effected at the expiration of twenty-four hours after the cover containing it was posted. In proving service or delivery it shall be sufficient to prove that such cover was properly addressed, stamped and posted.

 

  (d) Where a notice, document or other information is given, served or delivered pursuant to sub-paragraph (a)(iv) it shall be treated as having been given, served or delivered

 

  (i) by electronic mail, at the time it was sent; or

 

  (ii) if made available or displayed on a website, when the recipient received or is deemed to have received notice of the fact that the notice, document or other information was available on the website.

 

  (e) Every legal personal representative, committee, receiver, curator bonis or other legal curator, assignee in bankruptcy or liquidator of a Member shall be bound by a notice given as aforesaid if sent to the last registered address of such Member (or otherwise delivered or made available in accordance with this


     Article), notwithstanding that the Company may have notice of the death, lunacy, bankruptcy, liquidation or disability of such Member.

 

  (f) Where a member has elected to receive notices documents or other information in electronic format, whether as an electronic communication or otherwise, the Company may notwithstanding such election and without giving advance notice to the Member, provide such notices or documents in accordance with any of the methods allowed for in sub-paragraphs a) (i), (ii), or (iii) of this Article and such provision shall satisfy the Company’s obligation in this regard.

 

  (g) Without prejudice to the provisions of sub-paragraphs (a) (i) and (ii) of this Article, if at any time by reason of:

 

  (i) the suspension or curtailment of postal services within the State, the Company is unable effectively to convene a general meeting by notice sent through the post; or

 

  (ii) the occurrence of any event or thing as a consequence of which the Company is unable effectively to convene a general meeting by means of an electronic communication;

a general meeting may be convened by a notice advertised on the same day in at least one leading national daily newspaper published in the State (and one national daily newspaper published in the United Kingdom and the United States of America) and such notice shall be deemed to have been duly served on or delivered to all Members entitled thereto at noon on the day on which the said advertisement or advertisements shall appear. In any such case the Company shall send confirmatory copies of the notice through the post to those Members whose registered addresses are outside the State (if or to the extent that in the opinion of the Directors it is practical so to do) or are in areas of the State unaffected by such suspension or curtailment of postal services and if at least ninety-six hours prior to the time appointed for the holding of the meeting the posting of notices to Members in the State, or any part thereof which was previously affected, has become practical in the opinion of the Directors, the Directors shall send forthwith confirmatory copies of the notice by post or electronic means, whether as an electronic communication or otherwise (as the case may be) to such Members. The accidental omission to give any such confirmatory copy of a notice of a meeting to, or the non-receipt of any such confirmatory copy by, any person entitled to receive the same shall not invalidate the proceedings at the meeting.

 

  (h) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Article the Company shall not be obliged to take account of or make any investigations as to the existence of any


     suspension or curtailment of postal services within or in relation to all or any part of any jurisdiction or area other than the State and, in the case of sub-paragraph (g)(ii) of this Article, the Company shall not be obliged to carry out any tests or investigations into the causes of or circumstances surrounding the event or thing in question as a consequence of which the Company shall be unable effectively to convene a general meeting by means of an electronic communication other than such tests and investigations as may be used from time to time by the Company or its agents in relation to the use or operation of any systems for electronic communication.

 

127. Notices to members

Any Member whose registered address is not within the State, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man and who gives to the Company an address within any of the above territories at which notices may be served upon him shall be entitled to have notices served upon him at that address but unless he does so shall not be entitled to receive any notice from the Company.

 

128. Service on joint Holders

A notice may be given by the Company to the joint Holders of a Share by giving the notice to the joint Holder whose name stands first in the Register in respect of the Share and notice so given shall be sufficient notice to all the joint Holders.

 

129. Service on transfer or transmission of Shares

 

  (a) Every person who becomes entitled to a Share shall before his name is entered in the Register in respect of the Share, be bound by any notice in respect of that Share which has been duly given to a person from whom he derives his title provided that the provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to any notice served under Article 68 unless, under the provisions of Article 68(c), it is a notice which continues to have effect notwithstanding the registration of a transfer of the Shares to which it relates.

 

  (b) Without prejudice to the provisions of these Articles allowing a meeting to be convened by newspaper advertisement, a notice may be given by the Company to the persons entitled to a Share in consequence of the death or bankruptcy of a Member by sending or delivering it, in any manner authorised by these Articles for the giving of notice to a Member, addressed to them at the address, if any, supplied by them for that purpose. Until such an address has been supplied, a notice may be given in any manner in which it might have been given if the death or bankruptcy had not occurred.


130. Signature to notices

The signature to any notice to be given by the Company may be in writing or printed.

 

131. Deemed receipt of notices

A Member present, either in person or by proxy, at any meeting of the Company or the Holders of any class of Shares in the Company shall be deemed to have received notice of the meeting and, where requisite, of the purposes for which it was called.

 

  131A.    Use of electronic communication

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of these Articles, whenever any person (including without limitation the Company, a Director, the Secretary, any officer of the Company, a Member or any other person) is required or permitted by these Articles or otherwise to give or receive information in writing such information may be given in electronic form, whether as an electronic communication or otherwise in such a manner or form subject to such terms, conditions or restrictions as the Directors may determine or approve from time to time in their absolute discretion

(b) The Company and its Directors, Secretary or officers shall not be compelled to receive or to send electronic communications or information in electronic form under these Articles or otherwise until such time as the Directors shall have advised (pursuant to any terms and conditions of electronic communication or otherwise) the recipient or giver (as the case may be) in writing of the manner, form and restrictions (if any) by which such information may be sent or received.

Part XXIV - Winding up

 

132. Distribution on winding up

If the Company shall be wound up and the assets available for distribution among the Members as such shall be insufficient to repay the whole of the paid up or credited as paid up share capital, such assets shall be distributed so that, as nearly as may be, the losses shall be borne by the Members in proportion to the capital paid up or credited as paid up at the commencement of the winding up on the Shares held by them respectively. And if in a winding up the assets available for distribution among the Members shall be more than sufficient to repay the whole of the share capital paid up or credited as paid up at the commencement of the winding up, the excess shall be distributed among the Members in proportion to the capital at the commencement of the winding up paid up or credited as paid up on the said Shares held by them respectively. Provided that this Article shall not affect the rights of the Holders of Shares issued upon special terms and conditions.


133. Distribution in specie

If the Company is wound up, the liquidator, with the sanction of a special resolution of the Company and any other sanction required by the Acts, may divide among the Members in specie or kind the whole or any part of the assets of the Company (whether they shall consist of property of the same kind or not) and, for such purpose, may value any assets and determine how the division shall be carried out as between the Members or different classes of Members. The liquidator, with the like sanction, may vest the whole or any part of such assets in trustees upon such trusts for the benefit of the contributories as, with the like sanction, he determines, but so that no Member shall be compelled to accept any assets upon which there is a liability.

Part XXV - Miscellaneous

 

134. Minutes of meetings

The Directors shall cause minutes to be made of the following matters, namely:-

 

  (a) of all appointments of officers and committees made by the Directors and of their salary or remuneration;

 

  (b) of the names of Directors present at every meeting of the Directors and of the names of any Directors and of all other members thereof present at every meeting of any committee appointed by the Directors; and

 

  (c) of all resolutions and proceedings of all meetings of the Company and of the Holders of any class of Shares in the Company and of the Directors and of committees appointed by the Directors.

Any such minute as aforesaid, if purporting to be signed by the Chairman of the meeting at which the proceedings were held, or by the Chairman of the next succeeding meeting, shall be receivable as prima facie evidence of the matters stated in such minute without any further proof.

 

135. Inspection

The Directors shall determine from time to time whether and to what extent and at what times and places and under what conditions or regulations the accounts and books of the Company or any of them shall be open to the inspection of Members, not being Directors, and no Member (not being a Director) shall have any right of inspecting any account or book or document of the Company except as conferred by the Acts or authorised by the Directors or by the Company in general meeting. No Member shall be entitled to require discovery of or any information respecting any detail of the Company’s trading, or any matter which is or may be in the nature of a trade secret, mystery of trade, or secret process which may relate to the conduct of the


business of the Company and which in the opinion of the Directors it would be inexpedient in the interests of the Members of the Company to communicate to the public.

 

136. Secrecy

 

  (a) Every officer of the Company or other person employed in the business of the Company shall, when required by the Directors before entering upon his duties, sign a declaration pledging himself to observe a strict secrecy respecting the business of the Company and all transactions of the Company with its customers and the state of accounts with individuals, and in matters relating thereto and shall by such declaration pledge himself not to reveal any of the matters which may come to his knowledge in the discharge of his duties, except when required to do so by the Directors or by any general meeting or by a court of law or by the person to whom such matters relate, and except so far as may be necessary in order to comply with any of the provisions of these Articles.

 

  (b) No member shall be entitled to require discovery of any information respecting any detail of the trading of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or any matter which is or may be in the nature of a trade secret, mystery of trade or secret process which may relate to the conduct of the business of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, and which, in the opinion of the Directors, it would be inexpedient in the interests of the members of the Company or any such subsidiary to communicate to the public.

 

137. Destruction of records

The Company shall be entitled to destroy all instruments of transfer which have been registered at any time after the expiration of six years from the date of registration thereof, all notifications of change of address at any time after the expiration of two years from the date of recording thereof and all Share certificates and dividend mandates which have been cancelled or ceased to have effect at any time after the expiration of one year from the date of such cancellation or cessation. It shall be presumed conclusively in favour of the Company that every entry in the Register purporting to have been made on the basis of an instrument of transfer or other document so destroyed was duly and properly made and every instrument duly and properly registered and every Share certificate so destroyed was a valid and effective document duly and properly cancelled and every other document hereinbefore mentioned so destroyed was a valid and effective document in accordance with the recorded particulars thereof in the books or records of the Company. Provided always that:


  (a) the provision aforesaid shall apply only to the destruction of a document in good faith and without notice of any claim (regardless of the parties thereto) to which the document might be relevant;

 

  (b) nothing herein contained shall be construed as imposing upon the Company any liability in respect of the destruction of any document earlier than as aforesaid or in any other circumstances which would not attach to the Company in the absence of this Article; and

 

  (c) references herein to the destruction of any document include references to the disposal thereof in any manner.

 

138. Untraced Shareholders

The Company may sell any Shares in the Company on behalf of a Holder, or person entitled by transmission to, the Shares, if:-

 

  (a) the Shares have been in issue throughout the qualifying period and at least three cash dividends have become payable on the Shares during the qualifying period;

 

  (b) no cash dividend payable on the Shares has either been claimed by presentation to the paying bank of the relative cheque or warrant or been satisfied by the crediting of any account which the Holder has with the Company, whether in the sole name of such Holder or jointly with another person or persons, or by the transfer of funds to a bank account designated by the Holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the Shares at any time during the relevant period;

 

  (c) the Company has not at any time during the relevant period received, so far as the Company at the end of the relevant period is then aware, any communication from the Holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the Shares;

 

  (d) the Company has caused advertisements giving notice of its intention to sell the Shares to be published in a leading daily newspaper with a national circulation in the State and another in a newspaper circulating in the area of the address shown in the register of the Holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the untraced Shares, and (in either such case) a period of three months has elapsed from the date of publication of the advertisement; and

 

  (e) the Company has given notice to the relevant departments of The Stock Exchanges of its intention to make the sale.


For the purposes of this Article:

“the qualifying period” means the period of twelve years immediately preceding the date of publication of the relevant advertisements referred to in sub-paragraph (d) above;

“the relevant period” means the period beginning at the commencement of the qualifying period and ending on the date when all the requirements of sub-paragraphs (a) to (e) above have been satisfied.

For the purposes of sub-paragraph (c) above, a statutory declaration that the declarant is a Director of the Company or the secretary and that the Company was not aware at the end of the relevant period of having at any time during the relevant period received any communication from the Holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the Shares shall be conclusive evidence of the facts stated in it as against all persons claiming to be entitled to the Shares.

If, after the publication of the advertisement referred to in sub-paragraph (d) above but before the Company has become entitled to sell the Shares pursuant to this Article, the requirements of sub- paragraph (b) or (c) above cease to be satisfied, the Company may nevertheless sell those Shares after the requirements of sub-paragraphs (a) to (e) above have been satisfied afresh in relation to them.

If during any relevant period further Shares have been issued in right of those held at the beginning of that relevant period or of any previously so issued during that relevant period and all the requirements of sub- paragraphs (b) to (e) above have been satisfied in regard to the further Shares, the Company may also sell the further Shares.

The manner, timing and terms of any sale of Shares pursuant to this Article (including but not limited to the price or prices at which the same is made) shall be such as the Directors determine, based upon advice from such bankers, brokers or other persons as the Directors consider appropriate which are consulted by it for the purposes, to be reasonably practicable having regard to all the circumstances including the number of Shares to be disposed of and the requirement that the disposal be made without delay; and the Directors shall not be liable to any person for any of the consequences of reliance on such advice.

To give effect to any sale of Shares pursuant to this Article the Directors may take such steps as the Directors consider are necessary or desirable in order to effect such sale and, for this purpose, may authorise some person to transfer the Shares in question and may enter the name of the transferee in respect of the transferred Shares in the register notwithstanding the absence of any Share certificate being lodged in respect thereof and may issue a new certificate to the transferee and an instrument of transfer executed by that person or such other method of transfer as is employed by this person shall be as effective as if it had been executed or employed by the Holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the Shares. The purchaser shall not be bound to see to the application of the purchase moneys nor shall his title to the Shares be affected by any irregularity or invalidity in the proceedings relating to the sale.


The Company shall account to the Holder or other person entitled to such Shares for the net proceeds of such sale by carrying all moneys in respect thereof to a separate account which shall be a permanent debt of the Company and the Company shall be deemed to be a debtor and not a trustee in respect thereof for such Holder or other person. Moneys carried to such separate account may be either employed in the business of the Company or invested in such investments as the Directors may think fit, from time to time.

 

139. Indemnity

Subject to the provisions of and so far as may be permitted by the Acts, every Director, Managing Director, Auditor, Secretary or other officer of the Company shall be entitled to be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses, and liabilities incurred by him in the execution and discharge of his duties or in relation thereto including any liability incurred by him in defending any proceedings, civil or criminal, which relate to anything done or omitted or alleged to have been done or omitted by him as an officer or employee of the Company and in which judgment is given in his favour (or the proceedings are otherwise disposed of without any finding or admission of any material breach of duty on his part) or in which he is acquitted or in connection with any application under any statute for relief from liability in respect of any such act or omission in which relief is granted to him by the Court.

To the extent permitted by law, the Directors may arrange insurance cover at the cost of the Company in respect of any liability, loss or expenditure incurred by any Director, officer or the Auditors in relation to anything done or alleged to have been done or omitted to be done by him or them as Director, officer or Auditors.


 

  
Dated the [    ] day of [                    ]   
Witness to the above signatures: [                    ]   
EX-12.1 3 dex121.htm CERTIFICATIONS PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 Certifications pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Exhibit 12.1

Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

I, Michael O’Leary, certify that:

 

  1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Ryanair Holdings plc;

 

  2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d- 15(f)) for the company and have:

 

  (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

  5. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/    MICHAEL O’LEARY        

Michael O’Leary
Chief Executive Officer
Date: July 28, 2009

 


Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

I, Howard Millar, certify that:

 

  1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Ryanair Holdings plc;

 

  2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:

 

  (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to he designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

  5. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/    HOWARD MILLAR        

Howard Millar
Chief Financial Officer
Date: July 28, 2009

 

EX-13.1 4 dex131.htm CERTIFICATIONS PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 Certifications pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Exhibit 13.1

Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of

the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to

Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

18 U.S.C. Section 1350

Pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of section 1350, chapter 63 of title 18, United States Code), each of the undersigned officers of Ryanair Holdings plc (the “Company”), does hereby certify, to such officer’s knowledge, that:

The Annual Report on Form 20-F for the 2009 fiscal year (the “Form 20-F”) of the Company fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form 20-F fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

/s/    MICHAEL O’LEARY        

Michael O’Leary
Chief Executive Officer
Date: July 28, 2009

/s/    HOWARD MILLAR        

Howard Millar
Chief Financial Officer
Date: July 28, 2009

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

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