Ryanair intends to launch transatlantic flights within four years.

The low cost carrier claims that it will offer fares from $12 one way (around £6), not including taxes, between Europe and six US cities. As with its European services, passengers will have to pay for food and drinks consumed onboard, as well as inflight entertainment.

The transatlantic airline would operate separately from Ryanair, with a different name, and would serve secondary airports in the US, as it does in Europe to save costs. Those mooted are Baltimore (near Washington), Providence on Rhode Island and New York Long Island Islip Macarthur. The flights would operate from a number of Ryanair’s 23 European bases.

Although Ryanair has failed to make a formal announcement on its long-haul plans, chief executive Michael O’Leary told Flight International magazine that the recent Open Skies agreement, which will allow increased competition on transatlantic routes, has paved the way for his carrier to go long-haul.

The report in Flight International stated: “O'Leary says he has already had speculative approaches from US airports and is confident the venture will succeed despite the failure of several transatlantic low-fare airlines over the years.”

In addition to its economy service, Ryanair will reportedly also offer a premium class that will rival Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class cabin.

The launch date is anticipated for sometime in the next three or four years.

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