Ryanair slams 'delusionary' Boeing in 737 jet price row

The boss of Ireland’s Ryanair on Monday ramped up a war of words with Boeing, calling the U.S. planemaker “delusionary” for imposing what he termed a double-digit percentage price hike for 737 MAX 10 jets in talks this year. CE Michael O’Leary also said Boeing needed to “get its shit together” after what he described as delays in the delivery of 65 jets from an existing MAX order, though he was “reasonably confident” they would arrive for the summer peak. A Boeing spokesperson said it was committed to supporting Ryanair as a long-standing partner, but added it would “continue to be disciplined” in commercial decisions. Industry sources blamed the delays on shipping problems for galleys linked to a worldwide logistics logjam. Europe’s largest low-cost carrier in September abruptly ended talks with the US planemaker over an order of 737 MAX 10 jets worth tens of billions of dollars because of differences over price. Speaking on Monday following the airline’s latest financial results, O’Leary said Boeing’s approach was “delusionary”. “Boeing out of the blue sought a ... substantial double-digit price increase. I don’t understand the strategy,” he said, before reiterating that Boeing badly needs Ryanair’s business. In a call with investors, O’Leary said he was having a “marital tantrum” with Boeing, Ryanair’s long-time sole supplier.<br/>