In the middle of an uncertain economy, Ireland remains the centre for half of the world’s aircraft leasing and finance business. This is due in most part to the legacy of Tony Ryan, and the company he first founded in 1985.

Ryanair began with a single 15-seat plane operating flights to London from Waterford, in southeast Ireland, and has since become the most frequently used and most profitable carrier in Europe.

Today on the show, George spoke to author and historian Richard Aldous on his new biography of Tony Ryan.

Richard and George discuss Ryan's origins and childhood; moving on through the years to the development of Ryanair and his relationship with Michael O'Leary.

You can listen to the entire interview below.