Ryanair has confirmed that its move to paperless-only boarding passes will take effect from November 3, 2025, marking a six-month delay from the originally planned May 2025 start date. The airline announced the change this week, stating that passengers will no longer be able to present printed boarding passes and must instead use a digital PDF version via the myRyanair app.
Ryanair CMO Dara Brady said the shift to 100% paperless boarding passes will allow the airline to deliver an enhanced travel experience, streamlined through the app during the less busy winter schedule. He added that the app will improve airport efficiency, particularly during disruptions, by providing real-time updates, alternative flight options, and accommodation assistance.
The phase-out of physical boarding passes will coincide with the withdrawal of airport check-in desks, eliminating most check-in fees. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary stated that everything will be managed through the app, making the process fully digital and eliminating paper entirely. The airline noted that 80% of its 200 million passengers already use digital boarding passes, and the change will save 300 tonnes of paper waste annually.
However, exceptions apply for passengers departing from airports in Turkey (except Dalaman), Morocco, and Tirana in Albania, who must still print paper boarding passes after online check-in. Ryanair will be the first airline to completely ban paper boarding passes.
Earlier this year, Ryanair also announced cuts to some popular EU routes due to aviation fees in countries like Denmark, Italy, Germany, and Spain. Despite this, the airline confirmed its summer 2025 schedule includes 20.8 million seats for UK travellers and plans to offer more low fares.
