Ryanair will implement a new policy requiring passengers to utilize digital boarding passes exclusively starting next week. The airline has announced this change to alert customers in advance of the transition, effective from Wednesday, November 12. As of that date, passengers will no longer have the option to obtain and print physical paper boarding passes.
Instead, travelers will be mandated to use the digital boarding pass generated within the “myRyanair” app on their mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets, during the check-in process for all flights. Ryanair emphasized that the majority of passengers already utilize digital boarding passes, with nearly 80% of its over 207 million annual passengers doing so. However, approximately 40 million passengers who prefer alternative methods, such as printing their passes, will be impacted by this change.
Dara Brady, Ryanair’s chief marketing officer, highlighted the benefits of this transition, stating, “Moving fully digital means a faster, smarter, and greener experience for passengers, whilst also providing easier access to a range of innovative in-app features, including ‘Order to Seat’, live flight information, and direct updates during disruption.” The airline anticipates delivering an enhanced travel experience for all customers through the myRyanair app.
In addition, Ryanair emphasized that the shift to digital boarding passes will result in reduced airport costs, leading to potential fare savings for passengers and an annual paper-saving of 300 tonnes. The airline has also addressed concerns from customers who may face challenges, assuring that contingency measures are in place. For instance, passengers can receive a free boarding pass at the airport if they lose their mobile device or encounter battery issues, provided they have completed online check-in.
Regarding passengers without smartphones or tablets, Ryanair confirmed that they can obtain a complimentary boarding pass at the airport as long as they have checked in online beforehand. The airline also reassured that the digital boarding pass will be accessible even without a mobile signal, as long as online check-in has been completed.