Ryanair is implementing one of the most significant changes to its boarding process in years, directly affecting how millions of passengers across the UK and Europe will travel.
The End of the Paper Era
From Wednesday, November 12, the budget airline will completely phase out physical, printed boarding passes. This move marks a definitive shift towards a fully digital travel experience. Passengers will no longer have the option to download and print their boarding documents from a website.
Instead, all travellers must now use the myRyanair app during the check-in process. The digital boarding pass generated within the app is now the mandatory document to be shown at the gate before boarding any Ryanair flight.
A Faster, Smarter, and Greener Journey
Ryanair's Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, confirmed the change, stating it will deliver a "faster, smarter, and greener experience for passengers." The airline reports that this transition is a logical next step, as a substantial majority of its customer base is already using digital options.
According to the carrier, close to 80 per cent of Ryanair's 207 million yearly passengers already rely on digital boarding cards, meaning the change will be seamless for most. For the remaining passengers who still prefer paper, the message is clear: it's time to adapt.
Ryanair urges this smaller group to download the myRyanair app ahead of their travel to ensure a smooth journey. The app itself offers several benefits beyond just the boarding pass, including instant alerts from the airline's operations centre during disruptions and live alternative flight options if delays occur.
Enhanced Features for the Modern Traveller
The push to a 100 per cent digital system is not just about streamlining the boarding queue. It is also about integrating passengers more deeply into Ryanair's digital ecosystem.
The myRyanair app provides access to a suite of features designed to improve the overall travel experience. These include the popular 'Order to Seat' service for in-flight purchases, live flight information, and direct updates during any operational issues.
By moving everyone onto the same digital platform, Ryanair aims to ensure that all of its customers have easier access to these tools, promising a more consistent and enhanced travel experience from check-in to landing.
