Ryanair abandoning paper boarding passes becomes reality on November 12th, 2025. On that date, the airline transitions to 100% digital boarding passes via the myRyanair app, following a short delay from the original November 3rd target.
From optional mobile passes to a paperless default
Mobile passes have been common for years, but Ryanair’s move solidifies the default: no more printable PDFs or home printed slips. The company states this timing allows a smoother changeover after mid-term travel peaks and consolidates boarding into the app’s single flow. Irish press has emphasized that all passengers will need a digital pass saved on their phone from that date.
Why Ryanair is abandoning paper boarding passes
RYANAIR 737-800 | Photo: Karolis Kavolelis / Shutterstock.com
Operational efficiency and disruption management
Combining check in, boarding, and disruption handling within the app streamlines operations. Ryanair emphasizes real time gate changes, alternative flight offers, and hotel options sent directly to passengers phones, all in one digital process.
Cost savings and queue reduction
Paperless boarding cuts printing and desk workload, allowing faster gate scanning and less check in congestion. Industry research supports this shift, noting growing passenger use of mobile passes, which shortens airport times and simplifies identification checks.
Sustainability benefits
The airline and various reports mention annual paper savings amounting to hundreds of tons once printable passes end, supporting broader environmental goals.
Important exceptions and edge cases
Passengers queue at the Ryanair counter | Photo: Rebel Red Runner / Shutterstock.com
Despite the paperless policy, some airport and jurisdictional exceptions exist due to local rules or infrastructure. Ryanair’s help pages list locations where mobile passes are not accepted and printed passes are still mandatory. These include Morocco and certain flights from Tirana (Albania), with additional Turkish exceptions noted previously. News outlets also highlight Morocco and Tirana, and sometimes Turkey, as requiring paper.
What happens if your phone dies or you cannot access the app?
Current guidance says if you have checked in online but cannot show your pass, staff can print a boarding card at the check in desk, historically for a reissue fee. Consumer groups have cited fees as high as £55 for such reprints. Media reports suggest desk printing should be uncommon after the switch, with airlines using manifests to verify identity if devices fail.
How to prepare for digital only boarding
Ryanair Boeing 737-800 airplane | Photo: Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com
- Install or update the myRyanair app. Confirm you can log in, find bookings, and access passes offline before travel.
- Check in early. Complete online check in as soon as it opens, save your pass, and add it to your phone’s wallet if possible.
- Keep devices powered. Charge fully, bring a power bank, and have a cable for airport charging points.
- One device, many passes. If a group member has no phone, load all passes onto the lead traveler’s device.
- Know the exceptions. For departures where mobile passes are not accepted, like Morocco or some Tirana routes, be ready for printed passes as required.
Bottom line for November 2025 and beyond
Ryanair abandoning paper boarding passes means travelers must prepare for the November 12th, 2025 switch. This involves installing the app, storing passes offline or in a wallet, and noting exception airports. With preparation, including charged phones, early check in, and using one device for group passes, this change should speed up boarding and cut waste, while keeping fallback options available.
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