Ryanair Launches Paperless Boarding Pass System Starting November

Low-cost airline Ryanair is set to implement a significant change in its boarding pass policy starting 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 via the myRyanair app. This move is aimed at enhancing efficiency, reducing wait times, and minimizing paper waste, with Ryanair estimating a saving of approximately 300 tonnes of paper annually.

While many travelers today are comfortable using mobile applications, concerns have been raised about the adaptability of some passengers, particularly older individuals, to this new paperless system. In response, Ryanair has assured customers that staff at the airport will be available to assist those who may face difficulties navigating the app.

Transition to a Fully Digital Experience

The new policy means that all passengers must check in online through the myRyanair app before arriving at the airport. Currently, Ryanair reports that around 80% of its passengers already utilize this digital check-in process. However, a significant number still prefer traditional methods, which could lead to complications if they do not adapt to the new policy.

Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, has downplayed concerns about the transition, emphasizing that nearly all passengers possess smartphones. He stated, “Just make sure you check in online before you get to the airport, and then all will be fine.” This statement reflects the airline’s confidence in the digital shift, aimed at providing a smoother travel experience for customers.

While the majority of travelers are expected to adapt without issue, there are scenarios where passengers might find themselves unable to access their digital boarding passes. Such instances could include lost phones or devices running out of battery. In these cases, Ryanair has committed to assisting passengers by issuing a paper boarding pass free of charge, provided they have checked in online.

Implications and Exceptions

Ryanair’s digital-first approach will exclude certain routes, notably flights from Morocco and Tirana, Albania, which will still require printed boarding passes. This exception highlights the airline’s gradual move toward a fully digital process while accommodating specific regulatory requirements.

By checking in through the app, passengers can also avoid hefty fees charged at the airport, which can range from $30 to $60 per passenger. Those who do not complete online check-in will incur these charges, further incentivizing the use of the app.

The aviation industry is increasingly reliant on digital systems for operational efficiency. However, this dependence also poses risks. Recent incidents, such as a nationwide ground stop for Alaska Airlines due to an IT outage, underscore the potential vulnerabilities of digital systems. Notably, Southwest Airlines faced significant disruptions in late 2022 when it experienced a severe failure of its crew scheduling software, affecting over 16,900 flights.

As airlines continue to embrace digitalization, they must also be vigilant against cyber threats. A recent cyberattack in September targeted multiple European airports, disrupting check-in and boarding systems and forcing staff to write out physical boarding passes, leading to lengthy delays.

Ryanair’s transition to paperless boarding passes is a significant step toward modernizing air travel. As the airline encourages passengers to adapt to this change, it also emphasizes the importance of online check-in to ensure a seamless travel experience.