Ryanair Shifts to Paperless Boarding Passes Starting November 12

Low-cost airline Ryanair is implementing a new paperless boarding pass policy that will take effect on November 12, 2023. Passengers will no longer have the option to print their boarding passes, as the airline transitions to a fully digital system through its myRyanair app. While many travelers are accustomed to using digital tools, there are concerns that some customers, particularly older individuals, may find the switch challenging.

Ryanair aims to enhance the passenger experience by moving to a digital-only boarding pass system, which is expected to reduce queue times and save approximately 300 tonnes of paper annually. According to the airline, nearly 80% of its customers already check in online, though a significant number still prefer traditional methods.

In response to these concerns, Michael O’Leary, Ryanair’s chief executive, has reassured travelers that staff will be available to assist at the airport. He stated, “Almost 100% of passengers have smartphones, and we want to move everybody onto the smartphone technology. Just make sure you check in online before you get to the airport, and then all will be fine.”

Assistance for Passengers Who Encounter Issues

While the digital transition offers benefits, there are scenarios where passengers may struggle to access their boarding passes. Issues such as a lost phone or a dead battery could prevent travelers from presenting their boarding codes. Ryanair has committed to assisting passengers in these situations by issuing a paper boarding pass for free, provided they have already checked in online.

For those concerned about unreliable internet access, Ryanair has clarified that boarding passes will be saved automatically once check-in is complete, allowing offline access. Passengers can locate their boarding passes in the app under the ‘My Bookings’ section.

Ryanair has noted that exceptions to this new policy apply to flights departing from Morocco and Tirana, Albania, which will still require printed boarding passes.

Avoiding Check-In Fees

One major advantage of using the myRyanair app for check-in is the ability to avoid substantial airport check-in fees, which range from $30 to $60 per passenger. Those who neglect to check in online will be subject to these additional costs, highlighting the importance of adapting to the new system.

The airline’s shift to digital operations reflects a broader trend within the aviation industry, where many companies are increasingly reliant on technology to streamline operations and improve efficiency. However, the transition is not without risks. Recent incidents, such as a nationwide ground stop at Alaska Airlines due to an IT outage, underscore the potential vulnerabilities associated with digital systems.

In late 2022, Southwest Airlines experienced one of the most significant operational failures in recent memory when its outdated crew scheduling software malfunctioned, leading to the cancellation of over 16,900 flights during a crucial travel period.

As airlines continue to embrace digitalization, they also face growing cyberthreats. In September, several airports across Europe were targeted by a cyberattack that disrupted check-in and boarding processes, forcing staff to revert to issuing physical boarding passes and resulting in extensive delays.

Ryanair’s push towards a paperless future demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability while aiming to enhance the customer experience. As the airline navigates this transition, passengers are encouraged to embrace the new system to ensure a smooth travel experience starting on November 12.