Ryanair switches to digital boarding passes: What travelers need to know

From 3 November 2025, Ryanair will introduce a comprehensive digitalization of its check-in process. The airline is doing away with all physical check-in desks and relying entirely on digital boarding passes. Here are the most important changes and their impact on passengers.

The new check-in process at Ryanair

• Digital boarding passes as standard

In the future, travelers will only be able to retrieve their boarding passes via the myRyanair app. Printed boarding passes will no longer be accepted, with a few exceptions at certain airports.

• Self-service baggage check-in

Baggage can now only be checked in at self-service baggage check-in machines. Passengers identify themselves there with their digital boarding pass.

• No more check-in desks

No more check-in desksIn order to simplify the process and save costs, Ryanair will no longer have physical check-in counters at all airports in its route network.

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Why is Ryanair making this change

• Environmental friendliness & sustainability

By dispensing with paper boarding passes, Ryanair saves up to 300 tons of waste every year and thus reduces its carbon footprint.

• Faster and more efficient processing

The digital check-in is intended to accelerate the boarding process and reduce operating expenses. Ryanair expects this to reduce waiting times and improve efficiency at the airport.

Challenges and points of criticism

• Smartphone as a mandatory requirement

Passengers without a smartphone can no longer fly with Ryanair. If you have technical problems or a flat battery, you can use your passport as a means of identification.

• Exceptions for certain airports

Not all airports will be able to switch to the new technology immediately. In Turkey and Morocco, it will still be possible to use printed boarding passes.

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What are the advantages of this innovation for travelers?

• More functions in the app

In the future, the myRyanair app will offer enhanced functions, including real-time flight information, updates on flight disruptions and the option to place orders directly from your seat.

• Elimination of check-in fees

The abolition of physical check-in counters also means that the previous check-in fee of 55 euros, which was payable if passengers had not checked in online, will no longer apply.

Conclusion: progress or hurdle?

The digitalization of check-in at Ryanair brings both advantages and challenges. For frequent flyers and tech-savvy passengers, the move means faster and more convenient processing. For travelers without a smartphone or with technical problems, however, the innovation could become a hurdle.

What do you think about the new rules? Write us your opinion in the comments!