The fate of Laker Airways didn't stop the rise of other low-cost carriers though, and Ryanair launched in 1985.
The fate of Laker Airways didn't stop the rise of other low-cost carriers though, and Ryanair launched in 1985. Early services covered short distances, with the first flights operating from Ireland's Waterford to London Gatwick. Ryanair set the bar for today's budget airlines and it's now one of Europe's largest carriers. A branded aircraft is pictured here at Stuttgart Airport in 1988.