I somehow doubt there is a long term future for Aer Arann now. Their problem isn't just Ryanair although it is a problem. I firmly believe that O'Leary bid low for the PSO route to Kerry to oust Aer Arann and apply pressure. They would do the same on other PSO routes if it wasn't for the fact that a 738 would never make it into most of the airports RE serves. If Galway ever extended that narrow bumpy, short runway. They would be in like a flash and undercut Aer Arann completely. Galway is a prize waiting for the right winner. It wouldn't surprise me if O'Leary put up money to extend the runway.
Aer Arann's other problem is that people are travelling less and wanting to spend less money. Their fares while reasonable cannot match the big boys and their routes out of regional airports not that attractive. They can't compete with the bigger outfits from the larger airports with ATRs either.
I hope they survive but the idea of charter smacks of desperation.