Barclays analysts predict strong demand for short-haul air travel between Europe and Ukraine if a peace deal is reached, driven by citizens returning and visiting.
Ryanair and Wizz would see the most significant benefits from a peace deal, with Ryanair potentially deploying up to 10 aircraft into the Ukrainian market.
The timing of a peace deal and the reopening of the Ukrainian aviation market is highly uncertain, but the opportunity is considered too important to miss.
Ryanair halted flights to Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion in 2022, but CEO Michael O’Leary has plans to resume flights and invest $3bn in aircraft for Ukraine once travel is deemed safe.
