European aviation officials last night dismissed Michael O'Leary's suggestion to fly Ryanair planes with just one pilot as a PR stunt.

Officials at the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Cologne, Germany, told the Irish Independent the body would not sanction commercial flights with solo pilots, an idea floated by Mr O'Leary.

After causing outrage among consumers and pilots, the EU's official air safety agency quashed suggestions of changes to safety laws to reassure passengers.

The EASA is the ultimate authority on aviation safety in Europe and Ryanair would need the agency to formally change safety rules to operate with just one pilot on board.

EASA spokesman Dominique Fouda told the Irish Independent the agency would not be considering changes to its safety regime.

He added: “It is excellent public relations for Mr O'Leary but we have not been notified by Ryanair of any such request.

“The regulations are for two qualified pilots to be on board.”