RYANAIR: 100% digital boarding passes from November 12

Ryanair announced it will move to 100% digital boarding passes from 12 November 2025, in a company media release from September 24. They are pushing the start date back a week from the original 3 November date to avoid the busy European mid-term break.

From that date, passengers will no longer be able to print a paper boarding pass. Instead, all travellers must use the myRyanair app to generate their digital pass during the check-in process.

Ryanair is claiming the switch will deliver a “faster, smarter, and greener” boarding experience. Not everyone is convinced, as you will see below.

Why Ryanair is going digital-only

The airline claims that nearly 80% of its 206 million passengers already use digital boarding passes. Ryanair argues its case for the transition by pointing to other industries. For example, concerts and sporting events have gone ticketless with few hiccups.

The change is part of Ryanair’s broader digital transformation. It includes ordering in-flight food from your seat via the app and receiving priority service. The app also provides real-time flight information, including gate, boarding, and delay updates. Disruption updates are now delivered as push notifications in the app during delays or cancellations. In addition to the environmental benefits of eliminating paper, Ryanair claims that queues will be reduced. Additionally, boarding will be smoother.

But not everyone is ready

While younger travellers may already be comfortable living life through their phones, older passengers and those less tech-savvy might be left behind due to this change.

Consumer groups in Ireland and the UK have highlighted the concerns of senior travellers. These include those who may not own smartphones or feel confident using them. Some passengers also prefer the reassurance of a printed boarding pass, especially after high-profile cases. For instance, Ryanair has fined travellers for check-in errors or lacking app access.

People with disabilities

The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities supports the right to reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, including those who cannot use new technology. 

Passengers who are unable to use the myRyanair app due to disability should contact Ryanair’s special assistance desk or refer to the airline’s terms and conditions for information on how to make alternative arrangements. Special Assistance requests need to be made at time of booking or 48 hours in advance of travel. Note that the Special Assistance phone line have restricted hours. There is also a Chat line which is free of phone charges.

2PAXfly Takeout

Ryanair’s decision to ban paper passes from November 12 is in line with the industry push toward full digital travel. But for some older passengers who grew up in an era of paper tickets and still prefer them, this feels like yet another airline cost-cutting move dressed up as innovation.

If you’re flying Ryanair after November 12, ensure you have the app downloaded. Make sure you are logged in, your phone is charged, and your digital ticket is visible. Because if your device dies or you can’t navigate the app, you may find yourself stranded at the gate.