Ryanair has pushed back the introduction of 100% digital boarding passes until November 3, 2025, aligning with the start of its winter schedule.
Initially expected to roll out sooner, the move will mark the end of printed boarding passes as passengers transition to using the ‘myRyanair’ app for check-in and boarding.
Currently, nearly 80% of Ryanair’s 200 million passengers already use digital boarding passes, making the shift to a fully electronic system a logical step. The airline says that by eliminating paper passes, travelers will no longer need to print documents, making the check-in process more seamless, cost-effective, and eco-friendly.
Ryanair CMO, Dara Brady, said:
“Ryanair is Europe’s No.1 airline for choice, low fares, and customer service. This move to 100% paperless boarding passes from November 2025 will allow us to deliver an enhanced travel experience for customers, streamlined through the myRyanair app during our less busy Winter schedule. This will be particularly useful to passengers during disruptions as it will facilitate real-time updates from our Ops Centre directly to passengers’ phones, and will also provide them with alternative flight options, and offer transfers or hotel accommodation options when necessary.
Like other ticket industries (concert, sports venues, rail, etc.) there has been a massive switch to using mobile, and with almost 80% of Ryanair customers already using the myRyanair app, it is time to transition the remaining passengers to digital, which will see them reduce their carbon footprint and receive a smoother and enhanced travel experience from November 2025 as Ryanair continues to grow to 300m passengers over the next decade.”
Fewer Fees, Faster Check-Ins
One of the most significant impacts of the switch to digital boarding will be the elimination of most check-in fees at airports. Since all passengers will be required to check in via the app, Ryanair expects a major reduction in customer service fees, ensuring a more efficient process at airport counters.
Additionally, passengers will have access to a streamlined experience through the ‘myRyanair’ app, which provides real-time updates, flight information, and travel assistance in case of disruptions. Ryanair aims to make the transition as smooth as possible, ensuring that all travelers adjust to the digital-only system well before the deadline.
Sustainability Benefits: 300 Tonnes of Paper Waste Saved
Beyond convenience, Ryanair highlights the environmental advantages of going fully digital. The airline estimates that removing paper boarding passes will save over 300 tonnes of paper waste annually, significantly reducing its environmental footprint.
As part of its broader sustainability goals, Ryanair continues to invest in initiatives that reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly travel practices. The airline is positioning itself as a leader in paperless travel, aligning with the aviation industry’s shift towards more sustainable operations.
Preparing for the Transition
With the November 2025 deadline in place, Ryanair will begin actively encouraging passengers to familiarize themselves with the app-based check-in system. Frequent flyers already accustomed to digital boarding passes are unlikely to face challenges, but travelers who still rely on printed passes may need time to adjust.
While digital boarding will streamline the check-in process, seat selection remains a key passenger consideration. If you plan to book a Ryanair flight soon, you might want to know which Ryanair seat you should never choose before making your selection.
Ryanair’s decision to delay the rollout gives passengers and airport staff ample time to prepare for the transition. The airline will provide guidance and support to ensure a hassle-free switch, emphasizing the benefits of digital boarding for both customers and the environment.
By Winter 2025, Ryanair expects to fully integrate its paperless boarding system, marking a major milestone in its digital transformation.
