People 'less likely to book flights with Ryanair' after paper boarding passes were scrapped, according to new study

November 17, 2025 at 11:03 AM•2 min read•Editor,Erin Deborah Waks

A recent study indicates that a significant portion of travelers are less inclined to book flights with Ryanair following the airline's decision to eliminate paper boarding passes and impose fees for those who do not use digital boarding passes.

Key Points

1Ryanair implemented a new policy requiring digital boarding passes and charging a £55 fee for airport check-in for those without them.
2A study found that nearly 60% of Britons are less likely to book with an airline that charges extra for not using a digital boarding pass.
3Concerns have been raised about the policy's impact on older travelers and those without smartphones or internet access.
4Ryanair maintains that passengers who check in online can obtain a free boarding pass at the airport if needed.
5Consumer groups are urging airlines to provide alternative booking and ticketing methods for those who aren't online.

Ryanair's recent shift to digital boarding passes may negatively impact bookings, as a new study reveals that nearly 60% of Britons are less likely to fly with an airline that charges extra for not using a digital boarding pass. The policy, which eliminates paper boarding passes and levies a £55 fee for airport check-in for those who haven't checked in online, has sparked controversy, particularly concerning its impact on older travelers and those without smartphones. While Ryanair maintains that passengers who have checked in online but cannot access their boarding pass will receive one for free at the airport, concerns persist about accessibility and potential financial penalties for those struggling with digital options.

The study, conducted by Go.Compare, surveyed 2,000 people and found that 42% of those aged 65 and over are 'much less likely' to book with an airline imposing such fees. Age UK and the Centre for Ageing Better have voiced concerns about the policy's potential to exclude individuals without internet access or digital skills, emphasizing the need for alternative booking and ticketing methods. Ryanair defends its policy by stating that passengers are not charged for not having a digital boarding pass if they check in online prior to arriving at the airport.

Ryanair's boss, Michael O'Leary, stated that passengers who fail to check in online are either 'stupid or have ignored email instructions'. Go.Compare's spokesperson, Rhys Jones, advises travelers to research all associated costs when booking flights and to ensure they have adequate travel insurance. The airline operates over 3,600 flights daily, carrying over 207 million annual passengers. Ryanair considers the move to 100% digital boarding a success.