As of November 12, 2025, Ryanair switched big in boarding ways. All folks must use digital passes on the myRyanair app. This fits the push to digital in airlines. It aims to make boarding smooth. But the rule worries some. Like those without phones or tech trouble. In answer, Portugal’s National Civil Aviation Authority stepped in. They warned Ryanair. Can’t turn away paper pass folks in some cases. The warn shows balance. Between new ways and passenger rights. For disabled, old, or no digital access. You know, airlines go digital fast, but not all keep up.
Ryanair’s New Digital-Only Boarding Pass Policy
The Change in Procedure
In September 2025, Ryanair said from November 12, only digital passes. Folks check in online. Get passes via Ryanair app. Then show from phones. This rule joins industry move to digital. For fast check-in, less paper, fit mobile use in travel. Ryanair not alone. Many lines push same for easy run. For example, easyJet or Wizz Air tried similar. Saves time at gates.
Exceptions and Concerns
Ryanair’s digital rule aims smooth check-in. But it sparks worries for groups. Like old folks without phones. Or not comfy with tech. Also, no steady net. Or tech issues like dead battery, stolen phone, bad connect. These worry on follow rule. Ryanair web says paper passes okay in special spots. Like no smartphone or tablet. But questions on how handle in real. If folks face extra hassle. Think about a granny flying alone. No phone, what then?
Portugal’s Intervention: Passenger Rights Protected
ANAC’s Concerns and Guidance
On the new rule start, Portugal’s ANAC put out words. Cleared passenger rights under it. ANAC main worry is Ryanair rule no break rights. Special for those hard with digital. After check Ryanair site and more from line. ANAC said Ryanair must keep all rights. Include disabled, less move, or no phone, tablet. Portugal stressed Ryanair can’t say no to board. If have sure flight book and checked in. Even no digital pass. ANAC watches to guard fair.
The Right to a Paper Boarding Pass
ANAC said clear. Folks in Portugal no need reason. Like lost phone or tech glitch. To ask paper pass at airport. The group said Ryanair must not add charges for paper under these. Per ANAC, Ryanair must let get paper free. If did online check-in before. This makes sure folks who can’t or don’t want digital. Can board no blocks. For instance, at Lisbon airport, staff hand paper easy. No fee.
The Impact of ANAC’s Warning
This step by Portugal aviation group guards folks. Makes sure rights for all, no matter tech access. It points to key balance. Tech steps with access and fair. All enjoy same travel rights. No matter spot. ANAC said will keep eye on Ryanair rule do. To make sure follow passenger rights, safe ways. This keeps Ryanair, like all in Portugal, answer to customer needs. Hey, good to see groups step in for fair play.
Conclusion
Ryanair shift to digital-only passes marks big move in run plan. Fits wide aviation trends. But clear, such changes need care. To skip blocks for no tech folks. Portugal’s ANAC took strong stand. Makes sure Ryanair rule no break rights. Special for old, disabled, no phones. By say paper passes still there in cases. ANAC guards weak travelers. Makes travel fair, easy reach. As Ryanair tweaks new ways, folks should know rights. Options when fly. Those no phones or tech issues no punish. For out of hand stuff. Can ask paper no extra cost. And in end, travel should stay open to all.
