Ryanair launches corporate jet service

Ryanair has taken its move upmarket to a whole new level by launching a corporate jet service. The budget airline will offer fine dining on a Boeing 737-700 jet refitted to carry 60 passengers on reclining leather business class seats. A spokesman said the plane can be hired by the hour, with the “competitive” rate depending on the cost of using the arrival and departure airports. The average Ryanair fare is E47 one-way, whereas a 60 seater private jet from London to Geneva charges about GBP33,000 – or GBP550 a head – for a return day trip. Ryanair said the jet would be “ideal for private corporate, sports team or group travel”. Asked if Ryanair would accept bookings from stag and hen parties, a spokesperson said the carrier was “happy to provide quotes for any groups”. The service can operate flights of up to six hours duration, which puts it within reach of north Africa, Turkey and Israel.<br/>