Ryanair to close check-in 20 minutes earlier due to growing queues at European borders

Ryanair, Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers, is implementing a new check-in policy, moving the airport check-in closure to one hour before departure. This adjustment, affecting passengers who check bags or use airport counters, is a direct response to the escalating queues at European borders. The airline cites the new European Entry-Exit System (EES) as a significant contributor to increased waiting times, which have led to passengers missing flights.

While the majority of Ryanair's passengers (80%) already complete their check-in online and proceed directly to the boarding gate, this change specifically targets the 20% who rely on airport services for bag drop or check-in. The airline's stated goal is to streamline the process, allowing more time for security and passport control, thereby reducing the number of missed flights and improving overall punctuality. The introduction of self-service bag drop kiosks in most airports by October is also part of this strategy to manage passenger flow more efficiently.

This move by Ryanair, known for its strict adherence to rules and often controversial cost-saving measures, reflects a broader challenge facing the aviation industry and border control agencies across Europe. The implementation of the EES, designed to enhance security by collecting biometric data from non-EU citizens, has created unforeseen logistical hurdles, leading to significant delays in some airports. Ryanair's proactive, albeit potentially inconvenient for some, approach aims to mitigate these disruptions from its end.

From a Romanian perspective, this news highlights the practical implications of new EU border regulations on travel. While the EES aims to bolster security, its rollout has clearly created operational challenges. Ryanair's decision, while framed as a customer service improvement, underscores the strain on border infrastructure. For Romanian travelers, especially those who prefer or require airport check-in, this means an earlier arrival at the airport and potentially more complex travel planning, particularly during peak travel seasons. The airline's history of implementing strict policies suggests that passengers will need to adapt quickly to this new requirement.

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a faster bag drop service, fewer queues at the airport check-in desks and an even more punctual service for the 20% of customers who still choose to check in their bag.