Portugal Takes a Stand Against Ryanair's Digital-Only Policy
Portugal's civil aviation authority has issued a formal warning to budget airline Ryanair, stating it cannot refuse paper boarding passes. This intervention comes just days after the carrier introduced a controversial new rule requiring all passengers to check in online and use a digital boarding pass.
The policy, which came into effect on 12 November, mandates that travellers use the myRyanair app to generate a digital pass or risk a £55 fee for non-compliance. While Ryanair claims the move will 'save approximately 300 tonnes of paper' and streamline processes, it has faced significant backlash from consumer groups and now, from a European regulator.
Aviation Authority Investigation and Directives
The Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) released a detailed statement after scrutinising the airline's new regulations. Officials confirmed they had analysed information from Ryanair's website and sought additional clarifications directly from the carrier.
ANAC acknowledged that Ryanair appears to intend to guarantee rights for all passengers, including those with disabilities, reduced mobility, or who lack a smartphone. The authority also noted the airline's stated intention not to apply a boarding pass reissue fee for those who have checked in online.
However, the authority delivered a firm warning, instructing Ryanair to 'refrain from any behaviour' that might prevent holidaymakers who have checked in from boarding if they do not possess a digital pass. Crucially, ANAC stated the airline must not 'impose mandatory payment of fees for obtaining and using a physical (paper) boarding pass'.
The authority concluded by vowing to 'continue to monitor the situation' to ensure safety and passenger rights are upheld.
Impact on UK Travellers and Industry Backlash
The shift to a digital-first system poses a particular challenge for certain demographics. According to data from MoneySuperMarket, a staggering 2.06 million Brits aged over 55 do not own a smartphone, equating to around 10% of that age group.
Alicia Hempsted from MoneySuperMarket advised travellers: 'If you're used to printing off your boarding pass, make sure you've downloaded the Ryanair app and followed the steps to download your digital pass, or you could face delays when you get to the airport.'
Charities have also voiced strong opposition. Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, told The Telegraph that 'companies must not forget the four million people who have never used the internet and the many others with limited digital skills'. She emphasised the need for alternative methods for those who aren't online.
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has previously defended the policy, stating that between 85 and 90 per cent of passengers already use smartphones and that 'almost 100 per cent of passengers have smartphones'. He even cited his own 86-year-old mother's use of the app as evidence that the system is accessible to older passengers.
The Daily Mail has approached Ryanair for comment on Portugal's official warning.
