Ryanair has implemented new boarding regulations starting today, cautioning passengers against the possibility of facing a substantial penalty. The low-cost airline has fully transitioned to digital boarding passes, eliminating the option for travelers to download and print their passes in advance. Previously, approximately 20% of Ryanair passengers utilized this print option, which incurred a £55 fee. With this change, airport desks will no longer provide printing services, potentially resulting in a similar fee for passengers arriving without their digital boarding passes.
Ryanair has specified that passengers who have checked in online but lose their smartphone or tablet will receive a complimentary boarding pass at the airport. However, those who fail to check in online before arriving may face a £55 late-check-in penalty. Concerns have been raised regarding older passengers or individuals who are not adept with technology, as around 2.06 million Britons over 55 do not own smartphones, accounting for approximately 10% of the age group.
Under the new policy, customers must utilize the digital boarding pass generated by the myRyanair app post-check-in. Ryanair reported that 206 million passengers already use digital boarding passes, potentially affecting around 40 million journeys. Despite criticism, including accusations of ageism from advocacy groups, Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, defended the decision, citing his 86-year-old mother’s use of the Ryanair app for travel.
While concerns have been raised about potential challenges for elderly passengers, Mr. O’Leary dismissed these worries as patronizing. He assured flexibility for passengers facing difficulties with the new system, particularly during the Christmas and January period. Passengers who lose their phone after online check-in will still be accommodated at the boarding gate. The switch to digital boarding passes was postponed by a week to November 12 to avoid the UK and Irish half-term period.
Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, emphasized that the move to 100% digital boarding passes aims to enhance the travel experience for customers, offering a faster, smarter, and more environmentally friendly process through the myRyanair app. Customers are encouraged to email webtravel@reachplc.com if they have been affected by these changes.
