Ryanair will be implementing a new policy requiring passengers to utilize digital boarding passes exclusively starting next week. The airline announced this update to inform customers of the upcoming change effective from Wednesday, November 12. After this 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 to board any Ryanair flight. Ryanair stated that the majority of passengers, nearly 80% of its over 207 million yearly passengers, already adopt digital boarding passes. However, approximately 40 million passengers who currently prefer alternative methods, like printing their passes, will be impacted by this change.
Chief Marketing Officer of Ryanair, Dara Brady, emphasized the benefits of this shift to 100% digital boarding passes, highlighting a quicker, more environmentally friendly experience for passengers. The move is intended to offer easier access to innovative app features such as ‘Order to Seat,’ live flight updates, and direct notifications during disruptions, enhancing the overall travel experience for all customers.
Furthermore, Ryanair assured that transitioning to digital boarding passes will result in reduced airport costs, potentially leading to lower fares for passengers, and a significant annual paper saving of 300 tonnes. In addressing concerns from customers about potential inconveniences, Ryanair explained that passengers can still obtain a free boarding pass at the airport if they lose their mobile device or face technical issues, provided they have completed online check-in beforehand.
For passengers without a smartphone or tablet, Ryanair assured that they will receive a complimentary boarding pass at the airport as long as they have checked in online prior to arrival. The airline also confirmed that the digital boarding pass will remain accessible even without a mobile signal, as long as online check-in has been completed.
The airline emphasized that the move towards fully digital boarding passes aims to enhance the travel experience for all passengers while promoting efficiency and sustainability.
