Ryanair Moves to Fully Digital Boarding Passes in Cost-Cutting and Eco-Friendly Shift
Ryanair has announced that it will no longer accept printed boarding passes as the airline transitions to a 100% digital system starting this Wednesday. The move, according to the budget carrier, aims to streamline the boarding process, reduce costs, and support environmental sustainability.
Passengers are now required to check in online before arriving at the airport and present their digital boarding passes via smartphone. Ryanair said that about 90% of its 206 million annual passengers already use the digital system.
Those who fail to check in online ahead of their flight will be charged an airport check-in fee of up to £55. However, travellers who have checked in online but are unable to access their boarding pass on their phone will now be able to get one printed for free at the airport — a process that previously attracted a £20 fee.
The airline said the change will make its operations faster and more efficient while contributing to lower ticket prices for customers. Paper boarding passes will only remain valid for flights to Morocco, where digital passes are not yet accepted due to local regulations.
Despite the shift, Ryanair confirmed that its check-in desks will remain operational at airports for passenger support.
Travel expert Simon Calder told the BBC that while most travellers would likely adapt to the digital-only system, some passengers – particularly those unfamiliar or uncomfortable with smartphones — might find the transition difficult.
Ryanair joins a growing number of airlines adopting fully digital travel systems as the aviation industry continues to modernise its operations and reduce environmental impact.
