•David

Dublin-based pilots say they will strike seeking higher pay and better working conditions for one day on 20 December, pilots and crew in Italy for 4 hours 15 December, pilots in Portugal and Germany at some time to be determined.

But Germans have said they won't strike over Christmas.

Ryanair has apologized for any worry threatened strikes may be causing customers, and warned Dublin pilots they will lose benefits if they strike.

I'm sure people planning December trips on Ryanair are comforted by the airline's apology.

Airlinequality.com rates Ryanair 6 out of 10 overall and 4 out of 5 on value for money, based on 1165 customer reviews. But the airline has long had a "cheapskate" reputation.