Ryanair has launched online gaming on its website as a prelude to offer inflight gaming next year.
Chief executive Michael O’Leary expects significant take up from passengers using mobile phones and Blackberrys once these are allowed for use on board and said he hoped to make “millions and millions” from gaming.
The launch today in association with UK online bingo operator Jackpotjoy.com will see passengers offered bingo, scratch cards and up to 80 instant win games.
O’Leary promised roll out in flights next year although regulatory approval for use of mobile phones on flights is not expected until June or July.
The airline may hand out small laptops or Blackberrys for use in trials if mobile use is delayed. There are no software downloads. Passengers sign up on the spot and will generally pay 50p to £1 for a game.
Jackpotjoy claims to pay out £1.5 million a day in winnings, with a weekly jackpot of £200,000.
O’Leary said: “They return far too much to players for me. But the advantage is people can play for just five to ten minutes. It lends itself to short flights.”