Hackers made off with €4.6m from Ryanair, after digitally skimming the money from the low-cost airline’s bank account by an electronic transfer through a Chinese bank,

Reports say that the fraud came to light when the Irish airline, the fifth biggest in the world last year in terms of passenger numbers, after Ryanair officials reported the alleged theft to the Criminal Asset Bureau in Dublin, while seeking assistance in the recovery of the money.

A statement from the company says: "The airline expects these funds to be repaid shortly, and has taken steps to ensure that this type of transfer cannot recur," it adds that the matter is now subject to legal proceedings, and that Ryanair cannot offer any further comment.

On this evening’s The Right Hook, guest-host Shane Coleman will be speaking to Silicon Republic’s John Kennedy about this high-profile cyber heist, and what it means for the everyday e-consumer.

Tune in live today at 5.20pm, or listen back to the show’s podcast section here.

While the hacking of Ryanair’s accounts presents a new and digital chapter in the history of aviation robberies, thieves have long been looking (and taking to) the skies as a quick source of revenue. So buckle up, here are five of the biggest heists ever: