Ryanair has announced a new policy that will require passengers to use digital boarding passes exclusively starting next week. The airline issued a reminder to customers in advance of the change, set to take effect on Wednesday, November 12. From that date onward, passengers will no longer have the option to download and print physical paper boarding passes. Instead, they must utilize 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.
According to Ryanair, the majority of passengers, approximately 80% of the over 207 million annual travelers, already embrace digital boarding passes. However, around 40 million passengers who still prefer alternative methods, like printing passes, will be affected by this transition.
Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, emphasized the benefits of the shift to 100% digital boarding passes. This change is expected to enhance the travel experience by providing faster, smarter, and eco-friendly processes for passengers. Additionally, it will offer access to various in-app features, including ‘Order to Seat,’ live flight updates, and direct notifications during disruptions.
The airline highlighted that this move will lead to reduced airport costs, resulting in potential fare savings for all passengers and an annual saving of 300 tonnes of paper. To address concerns from customers, Ryanair assured that passengers who lose their mobile devices can obtain a free boarding pass at the airport if they have already completed online check-in. Similarly, they will receive assistance if their device malfunctions before boarding.
For passengers without smartphones or tablets, Ryanair confirmed that they would receive a complimentary boarding pass at the airport as long as they have checked in online beforehand. The airline also assured that the digital boarding pass will be accessible even without a mobile signal, as long as online check-in has been completed.
Overall, Ryanair aims to provide a seamless and improved travel experience for all passengers through the digital boarding pass system.