Ryanair tightens check-in, baggage drop deadlines to one hour before flight

Ryanair, Europe's largest low-cost carrier, is implementing a significant shift in its pre-flight procedures, requiring passengers to complete check-in and baggage drop a full hour before their scheduled departure. This new rule, effective November 10 across all airports served by the airline, tightens the previous 40-minute window. The move comes as Ryanair continues to roll out self-service baggage drop kiosks, aiming for over 95% of airports to be equipped by October.

“

The check-in and baggage drop will now be done up to 60 minutes before the flight.

According to the airline's statement, these integrated self-service kiosks are designed to streamline the process. Passengers can use the Ryanair app to check in their luggage and print bag tags directly, a feature intended to "accelerate baggage drop and reduce waiting times." Ryanair anticipates this will give travelers more breathing room for airport security and passport control, thereby minimizing the number of passengers who currently miss their flights due to delays in these areas.

“

More self-service bag drop kiosks will be installed across its network, with over 95% of airports having these kiosks by October.

Ryanair also highlighted that this change will primarily affect a smaller portion of its passenger base. The company's data indicates that only 20% of Ryanair passengers check in baggage. The remaining 80%, who opt for online check-in and travel with carry-on only, will not be directly impacted by the new baggage drop deadline and can proceed directly to the boarding gate upon arrival at the airport.

“

The self-service kiosks are fully integrated with the Ryanair app, allowing passengers to check in baggage and print bag tags.

This adjustment by Ryanair reflects a broader trend in the aviation industry towards optimizing airport processes and enhancing efficiency. By encouraging more passengers to utilize online check-in and self-service options, the airline aims to reduce operational friction and improve the overall travel experience, particularly during peak travel times. The focus on self-service technology underscores Ryanair's commitment to digital transformation and cost management.

“

This will speed up baggage drop and reduce waiting times, which should provide passengers with more time to go through airport security and passport queues.