Ryanair Phases Out Paper Boarding Passes, Sparking Passenger Backlash

Ryanair has announced its decision to completely eliminate paper boarding passes and transition to a fully digital check-in system. While the airline sees this as a step forward, the move has sparked frustration among some passengers, with calls for a boycott growing on social media. Experts have warned that the shift could lead to complications during boarding, as not all airports worldwide are equipped to handle digital-only passes.

Social Media Outcry and Calls for Boycott

Frustrated passengers have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction, with some urging others to avoid flying with Ryanair. “People should boycott them. Not everyone has a smartphone or the app,” wrote Youssef Ka, while Raymond Skinner added, “Just boycott them—choose easyJet or Jet2 instead.”

Concerns Over Practical Issues

Many travelers are less focused on protesting and more worried about the practical implications of the change. A common concern is what happens if a phone or app malfunctions at the time of boarding. Others have raised questions about airports in countries that do not yet accept digital boarding passes, particularly in Morocco, where many airports have yet to upgrade their systems, reports Metro

Ryanair Addresses Passenger Concerns

Ryanair has acknowledged that not all airports currently support digital-only check-ins. However, the airline assures passengers flying from Turkey, Morocco, and similar regions that they will still have the option to print their boarding passes.

One passenger shared an incident where his digital check-in incorrectly showed that he had no checked luggage, even though he had booked it. Fortunately, an airport staff member resolved the issue, but he questioned what would have happened if no one had been available to assist him.

That being said, many travelers seem unfazed. Ryanair reports that around 60% of its customers already use their mobile app, and they expect that figure to rise to 80% by the end of the year.

Some social media users were dismissive of the backlash, commenting, “I haven’t used a paper boarding pass in five years,” and “Using the app is so easy—why would anyone want a paper ticket?”

Ryanair’s Digital-Only Future

Ryanair aims to fully phase out paper boarding passes by May 2025, making it the first airline in the world to implement a 100% digital boarding system.

What If Your Phone Dies or You Lose Internet Access?

For those concerned about connectivity, Ryanair has reassured passengers that once a boarding pass is downloaded, an internet connection is not required to access it. The airline advises travelers to download their passes before arriving at the airport to avoid any last-minute issues.

To further prevent problems, Ryanair recommends using their app to store boarding passes, though passengers can also take a screenshot as a backup—as long as it clearly displays all necessary details, including flight number, QR code, name, and seat assignment.

Would you be comfortable flying without a paper boarding pass? Let us know in the comments!