Are Ryanair plans really working to win their customers back?

The low-cost carrier has embarked on a major overhaul of its image and business after the chief executive, Michael O’Leary, promised the airline would no longer “unnecessarily piss people off”.  He is the same chief executive who once said passengers who forgot to print their boarding pass should pay a £48 fee “for being so stupid” who is now keeping a much lower profile.

Ryanair the “which” worse airline to travel with in 2013 is now improving their services, so how are they doing this?

In an attempt to win back customers who grew tired of the airline’s hidden charges and customer service, Ryanair has introduced allocated seating, relaxed cabin bag restrictions, reduced charges, and loosened booking conditions.

The carrier announced recently that passengers flying “Business Plus” will be treated to priority boarding, an increased bag allowance of 20 kg, fast-track security at certain airports and the option to change their flight up to 40 minutes before departure. Tickets start from £59.99.

However, suit-wearing executives expecting the red carpet treatment and a glass of champagne on arrival will be disappointed. The “premium seating” offered to business class passengers is merely the front, rear and middle exit rows of the plane, which offer slightly more legroom. Like the rest of those on board, they will have to pay for their food and drinks.

“We won’t be installing different seats, and we won’t be putting up a curtain,” said Kenny Jacobs, Ryanair’s chief marketing officer. “The premium seats will be the same standard seats, but those located at the very front and very back of the aircraft so business passengers can get on and off quickly.”

Is this as good as it sounds?

Business travellers will need to be alert when they book their tickets or they could be stung with extra charges. If they forget to reserve their seat, for example, they will still have to fork out for the premium fare but will have to sit in economy. Also the misspelling their name will incur a fee of up to £160.

RYANAIR BUSINESS CLASS :

• Priority boarding
• 1 bag max 20 kg
• Fast track security
• Priority boarding
• Compulsory Choice of seat (or penalties applicable)
• Flexible ticket changes free of charge

                                VS

BRITISH AIRWAYS BUSINESS CLASS

• Priority Boarding
• 2 bags max 32kg (70lb) each
• Fast Track security at London airports
• Access to comfortable private loungest
• Contoured Leather seats with guaranteed window or aisle seat
• Complimentary food and drink service
• Dedicated check-in desks and priority boarding

So, whilst i agree Ryanair is improving and winning customers back i think they have a long road ahead. Personally i would rather stick with British airways for business class!

If you recently have been with Ryanair and found improvements please leave comment below, I’d love to hear about it