Ryanair plane impounded for failing to pay fine for flight delay to Palma

PalmA Ryanair plane was impounded as a precautionary measure at Linz Airport, 180 kilometers from Vienna, after the Irish airline failed to pay €890 in compensation to a passenger for a flight delayed by more than 13 hours, the Austrian public broadcaster austo reported on Tuesday. The court-ordered precautionary measure was carried out by placing a sticker on the aircraft parked at the airport, identifying it as property seized in Austria. The decision, unusual for a commercial passenger aircraft, stems from a claim filed by a woman who was scheduled to travel to Palma in July 2024 with two companions. Due to the significant delay, she sought an alternative flight, which she paid for out of pocket. The delay and the ticket changes generated additional expenses and interest, bringing the total amount claimed to €890. Since Ryanair failed to refund the money despite several requests, the affected passenger's lawyer initiated legal action and obtained a favorable court ruling that resulted in the seizure of the aircraft. A court officer who arrived at Linz airport even attempted to collect the sum from the pilot, but the crew had no cash on hand, as onboard payments are only accepted by card. Consequently, the court officer proceeded with the formal seizure of the aircraft. If Ryanair does not settle the debt within a reasonable timeframe, the aircraft could even be auctioned, the plaintiff's lawyer warned in statements reported by the regional newspaper. ÖON.