Else Beekman
Imagine this: your taxi got stuck in traffic, and now you’re rushing through the airport, coffee cup in one hand and boarding pass in the other. You reach the gate just in time—or do you? Ryanair has announced that passengers arriving late at the boarding gate or failing to check in within the designated timeframe risk a €120 fine.
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According to the Irish budget airline, this measure is intended to improve punctuality and will be implemented from May onwards. However, among passengers, the new rule has sparked questions and indignation.
Why this measure?
Ryanair claims the new fine has been introduced to prevent disruptions in flight schedules. Passengers who arrive at the last minute can slow down the boarding process, leading to delays for all passengers on board. Travellers arriving less than 40 minutes before departure therefore risk not only a fine but also the possibility of missing their flight altogether.
Ryanair stated in a press release: “In recent months, we have seen an increase in delays caused by latecomers. This measure is aimed at improving efficiency and minimising disruptions to our flight schedule.”
What does this mean for you as a traveller?
It is essential to arrive at the airport well in advance. Ryanair advises passengers to be at the boarding gate at least 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Until now, the minimum time required was 30 minutes. In addition to this measure, Ryanair has also implemented other policy changes, such as the elimination of paper boarding passes from 3 November and stricter rules on hand luggage. Consequently, passengers who do not comply with these requirements may face additional charges or even be denied boarding.
Criticism and reactions
Passengers have mixed feelings about this new measure. Some acknowledge it as a necessary step to ensure punctuality, while others see it as an additional revenue source for Europe’s largest low-cost airline. Previous policy changes by Ryanair, such as fees for failing to check in online, have provoked similar reactions.
On social media, many passengers express their frustration: “It’s ridiculous to be charged €100 if you arrive less than 40 minutes before departure. Security queues can sometimes be unpredictable, and this rule only penalises passengers,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Meanwhile, the airline responds satirically on its social media, stating that passengers should not expect extensive services for the low prices they pay. “Low fares, free luggage included, scratch card on board… recommended,” Ryanair posted on its X account (formerly Twitter).
Tips to avoid fines
- Be on time: Plan your journey to the airport so that you arrive well before the recommended time.
- Check-in online: Ryanair charges a €55 fee if you fail to check in online and need to do so at the airport.
- Travel documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready to avoid delays at security.
- Use the Ryanair app: Download your boarding pass on the official app to avoid extra printing costs.
- Check your luggage: Make sure your hand luggage complies with the rules to avoid unexpected charges.
Also read: Ryanair threatens higher fares in Spain over million euro fine