Ryanair, Europe's biggest low-cost airline, could be in the market for up to 300 aircraft, the company's chief executive was quoted as saying in an interview on Wednesday.

Ryanair had pulled out of talks last year to buy 200 jets from Boeing after failing to agree on certain conditions.

But Michael O'Leary told the Financial Times there was still the option of buying not only the 200 Boeing jets -- worth about USD$15 billion -- but up to 300 from either Boeing or its rival Airbus.

He said he saw no airline on the market worth buying.

O'Leary also told the paper he is seeking permission from aviation authorities to use only one pilot per flight as a way to cut back on costs.

"It would save the entire industry a fortune," O'Leary said.

Boeing spokesman referred questions about the interview to Ryanair and said talks with any customers were confidential.