Ryanair is contesting claims that a passenger was partially sucked out of a window during a flight in July, following an incident that left the individual severely injured.
Key facts
Passenger Ljubisa Karović, 61, suffered neck and shoulder injuries after a window broke mid-flight on July 10, 2026.
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary asserts no part of Karović's body exited the aircraft.
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident.
About one-third of shareholders voted against O'Leary's €150 million pay deal at the Ryanair AGM on September 10, 2026.
Why it matters: The incident raises questions about airline safety protocols and liability in cases of severe injuries during flights.
The investigation by the NTSB could lead to changes in regulations or procedures for handling cabin depressurization incidents.
Disputed accounts of the incident highlight the challenges airlines face in managing public perception and legal liabilities.
Compensation discussions may impact future claims and the financial responsibilities of airlines in similar situations.
Driving the news: On July 10, 2026, during Ryanair flight 1879 from Thessaloniki to Memmingen, a window shattered, causing sudden cabin depressurization.
Passenger Ljubisa Karović reported that his head and right shoulder were pulled toward the opening, leading to severe injuries.
Witnesses, including Karović's wife, described a chaotic scene as fellow passengers struggled to pull him back into the aircraft.
Karović's lawyer claims he had to be rescued after being nearly sucked out of the plane.
State of play: Ryanair's CEO, Michael O'Leary, addressed the incident during the airline's annual general meeting in Dublin on September 10, 2026.
O'Leary insisted that Karović was "certainly sucked toward the window, but he didn’t get out the window," disputing the notion that any part of his body exited the aircraft.
He confirmed that Karović was belted into his seat and acknowledged some compensation for his injuries, but denied any basis for "millions" in damages.
The NTSB is leading the investigation, with involvement from Boeing and GE, to determine the cause of the window failure.
The big picture: The incident has sparked widespread media coverage and public interest in aviation safety.
Karović's injuries included neck and shoulder pain, with reports indicating he may require surgery if symptoms persist.
His wife, Svetlana, praised a fellow passenger who attempted to block the window with a suitcase after a bag was sucked out.
The aftermath of the incident has led to discussions about the adequacy of airline safety measures and emergency response protocols.
What they're saying: O'Leary's comments have drawn criticism for their insensitivity, especially when he compared high-fare airlines to "rapists" during the same press event.
He stated, "People are desperate to get to Ryanair’s low fares because they can’t afford to fly with the high-fare rapists around Europe." This remark has been met with backlash.
When questioned about the appropriateness of his language, O'Leary responded, "Absolutely," maintaining his stance on competition in the airline industry.
Karović's lawyer, Vasilis Tsiaras, described the incident as life-threatening, stating his client is "alive by mistake."
By the numbers: The financial implications of the incident are notable.
O'Leary's proposed pay package of €150 million was met with resistance, with approximately one-third of shareholders voting against it at the AGM.
The airline will publish the exact results of the vote later, indicating shareholder discontent over executive compensation.
The NTSB's findings will likely influence Ryanair's liability and compensation strategies moving forward.
What's next: The investigation by the NTSB is expected to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The NTSB is due to submit a report next week, which could lead to recommendations for improved safety measures in aviation.
O'Leary indicated that Ryanair would await the outcome of the investigation before taking any legal action or making decisions about compensation.
The airline's reputation may hinge on the findings, particularly in light of the public and shareholder reactions to the incident.