In brief
A heated exchange has erupted between Elon Musk and Ryanair's CEO Michael O'Leary after Musk suggested acquiring Ryanair and criticized O'Leary for rejecting Starlink Wi-Fi. Ryanair retaliated with jabs and promotional antics, showcasing the rivalry between one of the wealthiest entrepreneurs and Europe's leading budget airline head. Both sides remain vocal as the battle unfolds, drawing attention from consumers and the media alike.
Elon Musk has suggested he could buy Ryanair and called for its chief executive to be fired amid a deepening spat between the pair.
The budget airline on Tuesday branded the Tesla chief executive an idiot, using the unusual row to promote its January sale.
Musk and Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary have been trading insults over the past week after O'Leary rejected the idea of Musk's Starlink technology providing wi-fi on flights.
The two are among the world's most outspoken business chiefs, with Musk being the world's richest man with an estimated net worth of $769bn and O'Leary running Europe's busiest airline.
A statement on Ryanair's account on Tuesday evening quipped: Perhaps Musk needs a break?? and announced a Great Idiots seat sale for Musk and others.
This followed Musk floating the idea of purchasing Ryanair and suggesting O'Leary should be sacked for dismissing the possibility of Starlink wi-fi.
O'Leary stated he would hold a press conference to address Musk's comments, as Ryanair's social media often involves humor and commentary on current events.
Last week, O'Leary labeled Musk an idiot in response to his remarks and suggested that Starlink's implementation would incur excessive costs that passengers would not want to pay.
The rivalry exemplifies the ongoing clash between innovative technology and traditional airline operations, capturing widespread media attention.
