Ryanair has announced a move towards a more sustainable and streamlined passenger experience.
The airline will transition to 100% digital boarding passes starting with its Winter schedule on November 3rd, 2025.
This move marks a pivotal shift, eliminating the need for printed boarding passes and embracing the convenience of mobile technology.
80% Currently Use Digital Boarding
Currently, a substantial 80% of Ryanair’s 200 million annual passengers already utilize the digital boarding pass feature within the “myRyanair” app. By extending this to all passengers, the airline aims to eliminate nearly all airport check-in fees from November 2025.
This is a direct result of mandating online or in-app check-in, ensuring every passenger possesses a digital boarding pass on their mobile device.
The transition to a paperless system is a significant environmental initiative. Ryanair estimates that this change will prevent over 300 tonnes of paper waste annually, contributing to a reduction in the company’s carbon footprint. By embracing digital boarding passes, passengers actively participate in a more sustainable travel model.
myRyanair App: Suite of Features
Beyond the environmental benefits, the “myRyanair” app enhances the overall passenger experience. It offers a suite of features designed to simplify and improve travel, particularly during disruptions. Passengers will benefit from:
“Order to Seat” Feature: A novel service allowing passengers to order refreshments directly from their seats, ensuring prompt service.
Real-Time Flight Updates: Access to live flight information and updates, keeping passengers informed throughout their journey.
Direct Communication During Disruptions: Immediate updates from Ryanair’s operations center, delivered directly to passengers’ mobile devices.
Terminal, Gate, and Boarding Status: Up-to-the-minute information on terminal, gate, and boarding status, minimizing confusion.
Alternative Flight Options: Real-time access to alternative flight options during disruptions, facilitating swift rebooking.
Centralized Travel Documents: A convenient location for all essential travel documents, eliminating the risk of misplaced paperwork.
Conclusion
Dara Brady, Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the customer-centric nature of this initiative. “Ryanair is committed to providing choice, low fares, and exceptional customer service,” Brady stated.
“This transition to 100% paperless boarding passes will enhance the travel experience, particularly during our less busy Winter schedule.”
Brady highlighted the app’s ability to provide crucial support during disruptions. “Passengers will receive real-time updates and alternative flight options directly to their phones. This is along with assistance for transfers or hotel accommodations, when necessary,” he explained.
This move aligns Ryanair with other industries that have embraced mobile ticketing, such as concert venues, sports arenas, and rail services. With the vast majority of passengers already comfortable using the “myRyanair” app, the transition to a fully digital system is a natural progression.
Looking ahead, Ryanair anticipates continued growth, aiming to serve 300 million passengers within the next decade.
By embracing digital technology and prioritizing sustainability, Ryanair is moving with the evolving demands of air travel. The switch to digital boarding passes is a also clear step towards a more efficient and environmentally friendly operation.