Ryanair plans to eliminate paper boarding passes by next spring. Michael O’Leary told a press conference that 60pc of passengers currently use the airline’s app, a figure expected to rise to 80pc by the end of the year.
Transitioning entirely to the app will eliminate the need for airport check-ins and the associated fines for passengers who fail to present a boarding pass.
CEO Michael O’Leary emphasized that the app-based system aims to streamline operations and reduce costs, indicating a preference to move away from physical ticket desks at airports.
To assist passengers with potential issues, such as dead phone batteries, Ryanair will have measures in place to check in individuals at the boarding gates using passport and personal information: “Once we have the passport and name we can check you in at the boarding gates. But everyone will be on the app.”
Mr O’Leary told the press conference: “I don’t want to have ticket desks at the airport. If we can move everyone onto the app, there will be no need to fine people or charge people for airport check-in.” He expects that Ryanair will switch fully to its app by next April or May, which would be both environmentally and cost efficient. Mr O’Leary said there would be help available for passengers whose phone batteries died.”
