Ryanair will phase out printed boarding passes for most passengers from November, marking a significant shift in its check-in policy aimed at cutting waste and streamlining operations.
From that point forward, customers flying with the budget airline will be required to use a digital boarding pass via the “myRyanair” mobile app. The carrier said the change reflects the travel habits of the vast majority of its passengers, with more than 80% of its 200 million annual travellers already opting for the mobile format.
The move is expected to save more than 300 tonnes of paper every year, according to the airline, and improve efficiency at boarding gates across its network.
Paper phase-out and current rules
At present, passengers may either print their boarding pass at home or download it to the Ryanair app. Those who arrive at the airport without either must pay a £20 fee to receive a printed pass at check-in.
Under the new policy, the default option will shift exclusively to mobile check-in, though some limited exceptions will apply.
Support for passengers without phones
Concerns about access for passengers who lose access to their phones—due to battery failure or technical issues—have been acknowledged by the airline. In a statement provided to consumer advocacy group Which?, Ryanair confirmed that airport staff will be on hand to assist in such cases.
Passengers whose phones are unusable will have their identity and booking verified against the flight manifest before being allowed to board, the airline assured.
Exceptions for certain countries
Despite the widespread rollout, Ryanair notes that printed boarding passes will still be required on flights to specific destinations. According to the airline’s website, Turkey and Morocco currently do not accept mobile boarding passes due to local airport regulations. Travellers flying to or from these countries will still need to carry a paper printout until further notice.
Digital drive continues
The change comes as part of Ryanair’s broader push toward automation and digital self-service, which has seen the airline develop its app into a one-stop platform for booking, check-in, boarding, and customer support.
The airline, known for its cost-cutting model, believes the shift will reduce operational burdens at airports and contribute to its sustainability goals by cutting down on paper use.
With digital adoption across the industry rising steadily, Ryanair’s move signals a firm step toward a paperless travel experience—one it hopes will be adopted across other routes and airlines in the near future.