Seizure on the tarmac: Ryanair under pressure in Austria over 355 euros

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It sounds like a scene from a bad movie: A Ryanair plane lands, the crew is thinking about the next takeoff—and then suddenly a bailiff shows up. The reason wasn’t a claim for millions, but a mere 355.02 euros. It was precisely this relatively small amount that led to a situation in Austria that quickly became a major issue for the airline.

Behind this case lies a flight delay, an outstanding payment, and ultimately a decision that demonstrates one thing above all else: even small claims can become a problem for large companies if they are not settled.

The starting point: A delayed flight to Mallorca

The case begins on July 11, 2024. A flight from Linz to Mallorca did not depart as scheduled at 8:20 a.m., but only at 1:00 p.m. This had significant consequences for one affected passenger. Due to the long delay, she was entitled to compensation of 250 euros. In addition, she reportedly booked another flight at short notice in order to reach her destination on time. According to reports, these additional costs should also have been covered.

But apparently, that is not what happened. Ryanair is said to have refunded only the price of the original booking. The remaining amount remained unpaid.

The lawyer sees the case through to the end

Lawyer Georg Wageneder was not willing to accept that. He told the newspaper “Heute”: “But they didn’t pay.” Since payment was not made, he had the claim enforced in court and then proceeded with foreclosure.

The next step was unusual, but effective. Accompanied by a bailiff, he drove to Linz Airport just as a Ryanair flight was due to land there. The plan was to collect the outstanding amount on the spot. However, neither the crew nor anyone associated with the airline paid the amount directly.

Suddenly, the only thing that was actually within reach was the plane itself.

The machine became a tool of oppression

Since Ryanair apparently had few other assets at Linz Airport that could be seized, the Boeing became the target of the action. The bailiff affixed a seal to the aircraft. Wageneder explained: “In principle, anything of value can be seized.”

It is important to note that the aircraft was initially allowed to continue operating. In other words, it was able to take off again. However, the airline no longer has full control over it. If payment is still not made, the situation could become more serious upon a future landing in Austria.

355 euros turned into nearly 900

According to reports, the amount has since risen to 892.62 euros. This increase is due to interest and enforcement costs. Ryanair, however, denies the allegations. A spokesperson said, “None of our aircraft have been seized.”

That is precisely what makes this case so remarkable. It is not the amount of the claim that matters, but the message it sends. If a corporation has to be pushed this far over a few hundred euros, something is wrong. Those who drag their feet on legitimate claims may end up cutting corners in the wrong place—and ultimately pay not only in money, but also with their reputation.

Sources: n-tv.de