Ryanair Paperless Boarding Takes Effect

From 12th November 2025

Ryanair has officially moved to a 100% paperless boarding pass policy for almost all flights as of November 12, 2025, requiring all passengers to use digital boarding passes generated via the myRyanair app. This marks a major shift both for travelers and the airline industry, especially in Ireland where Ryanair is a dominant carrier.

What Does the New Policy Mean for Travelers?

• No more printed boarding passes: Passengers can no longer print boarding passes at home or download PDFs. Instead, all check-in and boarding will be done through the myRyanair mobile app.

• Mandatory app check-in: Boarding passes must be displayed on a smartphone when passing through security and at the gate, except for departures from Morocco, where printed passes are still required by local authorities.

• Contingency for tech issues: If you check in online but lose your phone, run out of battery, or otherwise cannot access your boarding pass, Ryanair will issue a paper boarding pass at the airport check-in desk free of charge, as long as you have checked in online

Why Has Ryanair Gone Paperless?

• Environmental impact: Ryanair estimates this move will save hundreds of tons of paper annually, supporting its commitment to sustainability and reducing waste

• Operational efficiency: Digital-only boarding is expected to reduce airport congestion, streamline check-in and boarding, and cut costs associated with paper production and staffing

• Customer experience: The airline says that over 80% of its passengers already use digital boarding passes, making the transition logical and minimizing disruption for most travelers

What Are the Concerns and Criticisms?

• Accessibility: There are concerns about elderly travelers, those without smartphones, or people uncomfortable with technology. Ryanair states it will be "reasonably forgiving" for passengers who arrive with paper passes during the transition period (especially through Christmas and the New Year), but the long-term expectation is digital-only.

• Tech failures: While airport staff can provide a paper pass in emergencies, this adds a layer of stress and unpredictability for those worried about phones running out of battery or malfunctioning at a critical moment

• Digital divide: The policy may disproportionately affect passengers who are less tech-savvy or cannot afford smartphones, highlighting the ongoing digital divide in travel

What Should Irish Travelers Do?

• Download the myRyanair app well before your flight and ensure your boarding pass is saved offline.

• Charge your phone fully before traveling and consider carrying a portable power bank.

• Check in online as early as possible—even if you anticipate needing help at the airport, this ensures you can get a paper pass in emergencies at no extra cost

Industry Context

Ryanair's move is part of a broader industry trend, with many airlines and event organizers switching to digital-only ticketing. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has announced plans to implement digital travel credentials and biometric identity verification globally within the next three years, which could make paperless travel the norm worldwide6.

In Summary

Ryanair’s switch to paperless boarding passes is a bold step toward a greener, more efficient travel experience—but it also demands greater digital readiness from passengers. For most Irish travelers, the transition should be smooth, but those who are less comfortable with technology should prepare ahead and know their rights if things go wrong.

For more tips and updates on travel changes, keep following kcctravel Ireland. Safe (and paperless) travels!