The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) has launched an investigation into Ryanair, alleging that the Ireland-based budget airline engages in unfair commercial practices during its online ticket booking process, the agency announced Tuesday via state news agency MTI.

Ryanair accused of misleading passengers

According to the GVH, Ryanair DAC may provide misleading information on its Hungarian-language website during the online purchase process. The authority suspects that when customers book round-trip flights or multiple passengers at once, Ryanair does not clearly inform them that fare package options and the costs of certain optional services must be paid separately for both the outbound and return journeys, and individually for each passenger.

In particular, Ryanair is suspected of unfair commercial practices in the way it presents the prices for its “Regular,” “Plus,” and “FlexiPlus” fare packages, as well as optional services such as “Priority Boarding and 2 Cabin Bags,” “10kg Checked Bag,” “20kg Checked Bag,” and “Security Fast Track.” These practices may push consumers toward choices they would not otherwise make.

Psychological pressure and manipulative tactics

The GVH also observed what it believes to be psychological pressure tactics and consumer manipulation during the booking process. Utilising attention-grabbing colours, visuals, and labels, Ryanair creates the impression that the “Regular” fare option offers better value and more benefits compared to the “Basic” package.