I have flown hundreds of times with Ryanair and never had a problem - I guess thats counts for a balanced view.

Just make sure you know which airport they are flying you to and their record of early/on time is the best a round but I am sure they pad out the timings to get this.

If the flight goes pear shaped just make sure you have good insurance from someone like American express travel.

Easyjet are good and more professional.