Why do ryanair pilots land hard

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Ryanair pilots sometimes land hard due to the airline's operational policies and aircraft characteristics. The airline's Boeing 737-800 aircraft have a higher approach speed (typically 140-150 knots) than many competitors, and Ryanair pilots are trained to use firm landings to ensure runway contact within the first 1,000 feet for optimal braking. This technique, combined with the airline's emphasis on quick turnarounds (targeting 25-minute ground times), can result in less float during landing. While passenger comfort may be affected, these procedures are designed to maximize safety and operational efficiency within regulatory limits.

Key Facts

Ryanair operates a fleet of over 500 Boeing 737-800 and 737-8200 aircraft
Ryanair targets 25-minute turnaround times between flights
Boeing 737-800 approach speeds are typically 140-150 knots
Ryanair pilots aim to touch down within the first 1,000 feet of runway
The airline carried over 183 million passengers in 2023

Overview

Ryanair, founded in 1984 and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, has grown to become Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers, carrying over 183 million passengers in 2023. The airline operates a fleet of over 500 Boeing 737-800 and 737-8200 aircraft, serving more than 200 destinations across Europe and North Africa. Ryanair's business model emphasizes low fares, high aircraft utilization, and rapid turnarounds, with the airline targeting just 25 minutes between flights. This operational intensity requires specific pilot techniques, including firm landings, to maintain the tight schedule. The airline's training program at its Dublin Training Centre prepares pilots for these demanding conditions, with a focus on safety and efficiency within European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations.

How It Works

Ryanair's landing techniques are influenced by several factors. The Boeing 737-800, which forms the backbone of Ryanair's fleet, typically approaches at 140-150 knots, slightly higher than some competitors' speeds. Pilots are trained to use a firm landing technique, minimizing float time by ensuring runway contact within the first 1,000 feet. This allows for optimal braking performance and quicker exit from the runway. The technique involves maintaining a stable approach with minimal flare (the nose-up maneuver just before touchdown), which can result in a harder landing sensation. Ryanair's standard operating procedures emphasize this method to accommodate short runways at many European airports and to support the airline's rapid turnaround model. Pilots receive specific training at Ryanair's Dublin facility to master these techniques while maintaining safety margins.

Why It Matters

Ryanair's landing practices have significant implications for safety, efficiency, and passenger experience. The firm landing technique helps ensure consistent runway contact in various weather conditions, particularly important at Ryanair's many secondary airports with shorter runways. This approach supports the airline's industry-leading on-time performance, with over 90% of flights arriving within 15 minutes of schedule. While passengers may experience harder landings, the procedures are designed to maximize safety by ensuring proper braking and reducing the risk of runway overruns. The techniques also contribute to Ryanair's operational efficiency, allowing the airline to maintain its aggressive turnaround schedule and low-cost model. These practices have been reviewed and approved by aviation regulators, balancing operational needs with safety requirements.