Ryanair plans to ground seven of its 40 Stansted-based aircraft this winter.
Chief executive Michael O’Leary, blamed airport charges for the decision, and criticised the service from the airport.
He claimed BAA “offers a third rate service and charges extortionate prices, particularly at Stansted.”
He added: “This winter, seven of our 40 Stansted-based aircraft will sit on the ground. Stansted’s higher airport charges make it more profitable to ground these aircraft rather than fly them.
“BAA Stansted’s doubling of airport charges since April has caused traffic declines at the airport for the first time in 15 years. The service provided by BAA at Stansted is nothing short of appalling.”
Ryanair announced first quarter profits of £94 million, a 20% increase over last year.