The UK's competition watchdog is investigating Ryanair over claims that its policy of charging parents to sit with their young children may be 'unfair' under consumer law. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced on June 11 that it will examine whether the airline's 'mandatory family seat' fee—costing around £8 each way for children aged two to 11—breaches regulations.
CMA concerns over child safety and disability obligations
The CMA expressed concern that the fee may force parents to pay for the airline to meet its child safety and disability-related obligations under aviation rules. The regulator has not reached any conclusions but expects to provide answers within six months.
Ryanair's response: 'Bogus investigation'
Ryanair called the investigation 'bogus', stating its family seating policy 'fully complies with all relevant laws.' The airline insisted it does not charge for children to sit with parents, claiming adults pay only one reserved seat fee and can select seats for up to four children free of charge. It accused the government of a 'failed effort' to appear pro-consumer.
Drip pricing probe
The CMA is also investigating whether the mandatory fee constitutes 'drip pricing', banned in 2025 under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act. Hayley Fletcher, CMA director of consumer protection, warned businesses to show total prices upfront or face action.
Industry reaction
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, welcomed the investigation, noting Which? has repeatedly highlighted Ryanair's practice of separating families and charging parents to sit with children as young as three. He urged Ryanair to stop the fees immediately.
Other major UK airlines, including British Airways, Jet2, and easyJet, typically seat children with parents automatically without extra charges.
Background on family travel costs
The investigation follows a 2024 ABTA survey showing 32% of Brits planned to cut holiday spending due to the cost of living. The CMA is urging businesses to avoid extra charges to escape scrutiny.
