by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 10:30 AM ET, Fri January 23, 2026
Elon Musk and Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary are turning routine airline tech discussions into headline-grabbing fireworks.
A public spat between Musk and O’Leary launched into a social media spectacle, and the internet is loving it.
According to reporting by The Associated Press, the exchange began after O’Leary dismissed the idea of installing Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service on Ryanair aircraft, citing cost concerns and limited passenger demand on the airline’s short-haul European routes.
O’Leary said the added expense and fuel impact of the equipment would ultimately drive up fares.
Musk responded publicly on X, mocking O’Leary’s stance. The billionaire escalated the exchange by posting a poll asking followers whether he should buy Ryanair and “put someone whose actual name is Ryan in charge,” a comment that quickly went viral.
(Photo Credit: @Ryanair via X)
O’Leary fired back just as bluntly. Speaking to reporters, he said Musk was “misinformed” and an “idiot” if he believed such a takeover was possible, noting that European Union rules prohibit non-EU citizens from owning a controlling stake in an EU airline.
The airline promoted a tongue-in-cheek seat sale, dubbed the “Big Idiot” sale, referencing the online insults, effectively turning the feud into free publicity, a familiar tactic for an airline long known for courting controversy.
"Twitter tantrum" (Photo Credit: @Ryanair via X)
Starlink, developed by Musk’s space company SpaceX, is already being adopted by several airlines worldwide, offering high-speed satellite internet at cruising altitude. But Ryanair’s business model remains firmly focused on cost minimization, arguing that most passengers would rather save money than stream content mid-flight.
O’Leary, who has long been known for his brash style, seemed unfazed by Musk’s insults. In fact, he thanked the tech mogul for the additional eyeballs on Ryanair.
According to reports, the airline is in talks with other Wi-Fi providers, but for now appears content to stay offline and firmly in the spotlight.
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