Mr O'Leary says in-flight gambling could end the need for air fares

The announcement was made by the budget airline's chief executive Michael O'Leary, although no exact details were available as to how the plan will work.

Ryanair hopes to introduce in-flight gambling and computer games on its planes by 2007.

"Ultimately entertainment will be where the money is," Mr O'Leary said.

"It would transform ancillary revenues and profits.

Mr O'Leary is no stranger to more outrageous ideas

"We'll probably announce a gambling partner [company] in the next two to three months."

The airline has previously introduced - but then withdrawn - an onboard individual video and entertainment system.

Mr O'Leary made the latest comments in a briefing to journalists ahead of the company's half-year results on 7 November.

He said the results would "be fine", but declined to give any more details.