ryanair CEO Michael O’leary has challenged the widely held belief that older generations are resistant to adopting new technologies. He cited his own 86-year-old mother’s use of the ryanair app as evidence against this “myth.” O’Leary made these comments during a discussion about Ryanair’s increasingly digital booking processes.

O’Leary’s Observations on Senior Tech Adoption

O’Leary explained that older individuals often initially rely on family members for assistance with bookings. However, he noted they quickly become self-sufficient. “Actually, what you find is the old people firstly just get their kids or grandkids to make bookings for them, and than pretty quickly they’re adopting it themselves,” he stated.

He further claimed that seniors are often the most eager customers when Ryanair offers seat sales.”The people who jump first on every seat sale we run are old people,” O’Leary said. “They are the ones sitting ther hovering. They don’t go to concerts anymore but the minute there’s a seat sale on Ryanair they’re in like a bandit either on their laptop or on their mobile app.”

O’Leary criticized the notion that older people are unable or unwilling to embrace mobile technology and apps as “slightly patronising.”

Ryanair’s App-Only Policy and Customer Adaptation

When questioned about whether his observations where limited to seniors already using technology, O’Leary clarified that he believes even those who haven’t will adapt if necessary. “No, I’m talking about older people who will have the app, if that’s the only way they can fly with Ryanair,” he responded. “They will just convert and move as that’s what they do.” This suggests Ryanair is moving towards a system where app access is essential for booking flights.

The Growing Digital Divide and Senior Tech Adoption Rates

While O’Leary presents a positive outlook,it’s important to acknowledge the ongoing digital divide. Data from the National Telecommunications and Facts Management (NTIA) shows disparities in internet access and digital skills based on age,income,and location. however, the trend is towards greater inclusion.