I've got to be honest, I've always been a big fan of Michael O'Leary, CEO of Ryan Air. His no nonsense and no thrills approach to business is legendary and certainly made plenty of headlines over the years.
That said, I've never flown on Ryan Air, having heard plenty of stories and anecdotes of zero customer service, having to pay for the seatbelts and cooking your own food 
But is this perceived reputation the problem? Did this anti-publicity finally catch up with Ryan Air, as they struggled against other low cost carriers, which prompted the turn round in policy and fortunes and the new found customer friendly image?
It seems profits are now up, Ryan Air are now "listening" to customers and the whole thing has a hilarious ring to it. Cynics argue profits are due to the falling oil prices, which means Ryan Air doesn't have to be quite so ruthless with its stealth charges and surcharges, and this new image is just another PR stunt get more bums on seats.
Business is business, it seems both approaches have served Ryan Air well over the years, but I wonder how long the reputation and perceived image will take to shift from passengers who have never flown Ryan Air before?
I see British Airways are in a bid to take over Aer Lingus, which Ryan Air own 30% of, so looks like the good news is set to continue for Michael O'Leary for some time to come.
Anyone else brave enough to try the anti customer service model over the years?
