Authorities in Skopje said the airline’s financial and operational demands were considered excessive and unacceptable for the local market.
Dispute Centered Around Subsidy Demands
One of the main issues during negotiations involved Ryanair’s expectations for government subsidies.
According to North Macedonian officials, the airline requested support worth €25 per seat, significantly above the country’s existing aviation incentive programme.
Current subsidies provide airlines with €9 per passenger at Skopje Airport and €12 per passenger at Ohrid Airport for launching new routes and increasing inbound tourism traffic.
Government Rejects Ryanair Conditions
North Macedonian deputy prime minister and transport minister Aleksandar Nikoloski said the conditions proposed by Ryanair were not suitable for the country’s aviation market.
The government stated it remains interested in attracting new airlines but does not intend to accept terms that could distort competition.
Operational Incentives Also Requested
According to local authorities, Ryanair also requested several operational advantages during discussions.
These reportedly included priority treatment for aircraft during ground handling procedures at airports.
The airline also sought exemptions from certain airport services, citing the use of its own boarding and deboarding equipment including passenger stairs.
Route Competition Became Additional Concern
Officials additionally indicated that discussions included the possibility of reviewing some routes already operated by competing airlines, which became another controversial aspect of negotiations.
Ryanair Has Explored Macedonia For Years
Ryanair has periodically explored entering the North Macedonian market for more than a decade.
The airline first announced plans to launch flights to Skopje in 2015 before talks eventually collapsed.
Negotiations resumed again in 2018 and later in 2025, but none resulted in the launch of services.
Wizz Air Remains Dominant Carrier
The failure to secure a deal with Ryanair leaves Wizz Air firmly dominant within the North Macedonian aviation market.
The Hungarian low-cost carrier currently accounts for more than half of the country’s passenger traffic.
For the 2026 summer season, Wizz Air plans to base seven aircraft in Skopje while continuing to expand its regional network.
Government Still Seeking More Competition
Although negotiations with Ryanair have failed again, North Macedonian authorities said they remain focused on attracting additional airlines to improve market competition and diversify air connectivity.
However, officials stressed that future agreements must remain balanced and aligned with broader market conditions.