Ryanair is struggling to find housing for new hires and has taken the unusual step of getting into the landlord business. The Irish carrier has purchased the majority of an entire housing development in a prime area of Dublin, which will be rented out to new cabin crew members during their first year of employment, a spokesperson told Fortune.
Ryanair acquired 25 homes in a 28-property development near its Dublin headquarters, bringing the airline’s total holdings to 40 homes, according to Business Post. The airline stated that the lack of affordable rental accommodation has been a major obstacle to recruiting and training new Irish and European cabin crew members, and the new housing is located conveniently close to Dublin Airport.
Ireland is experiencing a severe housing crisis, with soaring rents and increasing homelessness. The average rent in Dublin has doubled in the past decade, making it unaffordable for many residents. However, some local politicians criticize Ryanair for exacerbating the housing crisis by investing in property, claiming that it prevents families from purchasing homes.
Despite the criticism, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary defended the company’s actions, emphasizing that their priority is to take care of their passengers and staff. This story was originally published on Fortune.com.
