Ryanair will require passengers to utilize digital boarding passes exclusively starting next week. The budget airline has announced the transition, effective from Wednesday, November 12. After this date, passengers will no longer have the option to obtain and print a physical paper boarding pass.
Instead, travelers must utilize the digital boarding pass generated within the “myRyanair” app on their mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, during the check-in process to board any Ryanair flight.
Ryanair has stated that the majority of passengers already use digital boarding passes, with nearly 80% of its over 207 million yearly passengers doing so. However, this change will impact around 40 million passengers who still prefer alternative methods, like printing their boarding pass.
Dara Brady, Ryanair’s chief marketing officer, emphasized the benefits of this shift to digital boarding passes, stating that it will offer a faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly experience for passengers. The myRyanair app will also provide access to various innovative features, such as ‘Order to Seat’, real-time flight information, and direct updates during disruptions.
Ryanair highlighted that this move will lead to reduced airport costs, resulting in lower fares for all passengers and saving 300 tonnes of paper annually.
To address concerns from customers, Ryanair assured that passengers who lose their mobile device can obtain a free boarding pass at the airport if they have already completed online check-in. Similarly, if a passenger’s device battery dies before reaching airport security, assistance will be provided. If a device malfunctions before boarding, passengers will be aided at the gate.
For passengers without a smartphone with the Ryanair app, the airline stated that they will receive a free boarding pass at the airport as long as they have completed online check-in before arriving.
Ryanair also confirmed that the digital boarding pass will be accessible even without a mobile signal, as long as passengers have checked in online.