Ryanair courts big business and sports teams with corporate jet service

Ryanair is flying into unfamiliar territory by launching a corporate jet service that even offers passengers fine dining.

For what it described as "the most competitive rate in Europe", customers can charter a flight on a customised Boeing 737-700 fitted with just 60 "business class" seats.

Ryanair declined to give specific costs of the service, saying the price is determined on a cost per hour basis and depends on the departure and arrival airports.

The jet, billed as "ideal for private corporate, sports teams or group travel", can be booked for journeys of up to six hours and can include fine dining catering.

The seats are arranged in sets of two, are leather-clad and recline, giving a passengers a possible 48 inches of room. A normal Ryanair flight on an equivalent aircraft offers only 30-32 inches, according to Seat Guru data.

Ryanair has been courting business travellers after taking action to improve its image. Once pilloried for its poor customer service, management has scrapped some passenger fees and overhauled flight interiors, among other initiatives.

It now boasts 25 million business travellers per year, according to communications chief Robin Kiely.