Ryanair Abolishes Paper Boarding Passes from November 3, 2025

03.09.2025 | International news

Ryanair is discontinuing the issuance of paper boarding passes from November 3, 2025, transitioning to digital service through its app.

Снимка от Grobuonis, Wikimedia Commons, под лиценз Public domain

A wave of digitalization is sweeping the aviation sector, and the European low-cost giant **Ryanair** is at the forefront of this transformation. In a massive change that will take effect on **November 3, 2025**, the airline will completely stop issuing paper boarding passes, transitioning to a fully digital service through its **myRyanair** mobile application.

Sustainability and Optimization

This move is part of the carrier's long-term strategy to achieve greater **environmental sustainability** and improve **passenger service**. From the specified date onwards, printed boarding passes will no longer be accepted at airport check-in counters. All check-in and boarding will be conducted exclusively through the app, which will streamline the process for both passengers and ground staff.

According to the company's preliminary calculations, the elimination of paper boarding passes will save over **300 tons of paper annually**. This not only reduces waste but also leads to the elimination of fees for reissuing a boarding pass, which currently amount to around **23 euros**. The decision is expected to bring significant economic benefits and optimize airport processes.

Important Exceptions and Advice for Passengers

Despite the ambitious digital policy, there will be some **important exceptions**. Due to local regulations, for destinations such as **Morocco** and **Tirana**, paper boarding passes will remain mandatory for travel. The airline clarifies that for these routes, passengers will have to continue carrying printed passes until local requirements are changed. However, Ryanair has reached an agreement with authorities in Albania, and it is expected that from **March 2026**, the Tirana airport will also transition to digital boarding passes.

To avoid potential problems at the airport, Ryanair advises passengers to take a few steps. It is of utmost importance that **online check-in** is completed in advance. If a passenger's phone is damaged or its battery dies, ground staff will be able to assist at the counter or during boarding, but only if the check-in has been done beforehand.

For older passengers who do not use smartphones or have difficulties with the new system, the airline provides the possibility of support from friends and relatives. Family members can perform the online check-in on behalf of the passenger, as the system allows for checking in for other people as well. Subsequently, at the airport, ground staff will provide the necessary assistance for a smooth journey.

The only group of passengers who will continue to pay a fee are those who have not checked in online at all and decide to do so at the airport. For them, the fee remains **63 euros**, and for flights departing from Spain – **34 euros**.

The Future of Travel

The change is significant and represents another step by Ryanair toward a fully digitalized and optimized travel experience. It places the airline at the forefront of innovation in the industry, as it strives to offer faster, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly service to its customers.