New Delhi, Nov. 2 -- Ryanair is considering a temporary pay freeze for employees and a slowdown in recruitment as soaring aviation fuel costs threaten to push airfares across Europe up by as much as 20% in 2027.

The Irish low-cost carrier has warned that ticket prices will need to rise by double digits as its existing fuel hedging arrangements expire and the financial impact of the Middle East conflict intensifies.

Chief Executive Michael O'Leary said jet fuel prices could remain elevated well into 2027 unless there is a swift resolution to the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran.

The airline estimates that its fuel expenditure could increase by around €2 billion in the short term, leaving it with limited options to offset...