Known for transforming low-cost trips in Europe, Ryanair continues to reinforce its operation in Portugal, with prominent presence at Faro Airport, key point in the Algarve. Created in 1984, the Irish carrier began with short flights between Ireland and the United Kingdom. Today, despite being one of the most popular, remains wrapped in controversy due to its rules and tariffs, considered by many to be excessive. The most recent measure is generating discussion, especially among less prevented passengers.
Heavy fine for those who delay
The company introduced a new penalty that could affect those who arrive late at the airport. According to the British newspaper Daily Star, Ryanair now charges 117 euros to passengers who are less than 40 minutes before the time of departure.
When this happens, the check-in counter is already closed and the boarding board. Even trying to reschedule to another flight, the rate remains. The penalty applies to those who arrive up to one hour after offspring the lost flight.
Rule aligned with previous practices
This policy follows the same line as already known as the carrier, such as the charge to those who do not complete the online check-in within the established deadline. The updated regulation states that if check-in is not done over the internet up to two hours before the flight, the passenger can do it in person, up to 40 minutes before, but paying more.
According to the same source, these measures are part of the company’s strategy to encourage digital and anticipated procedures, reducing delays and queues at the terminals.
Planning becomes crucial
With this type of rules, the organization is fundamental. Ryanair recommends that everyone checks in advance and arrives at the airport early to avoid unexpected costs. The official objective is to ensure punctuality, but it is up to the passenger to know and respect the conditions so as not to be surprised.
Arrive early to avoid problems
Although the guidelines are clear, many continue with questions about the ideal time to reach the airport. Some choose to arrive two or more hours before, while others risk shorter periods. With the new penalty, the margin of error is further reduced.
The penalty now in force, according to the source previously mentioned, is a warning to those who advance everything until the last minute. The recommendation is simple: check times, complete the online check-in and arrive early. Fulfilling the rules avoids losses, delays and annoyances, maintaining the original value of the trip.
Records and new numbers
In March 2025, the company transported 15 million passengers, 10% more than in the same month of 2024. It operated about 84,000 flights, with an occupancy rate of 93% in this month and 94% in the annual accumulated.
Headquartered in Dublin, the company celebrated, on March 26, the 200 million annual passenger mark. Executive President Michael O’Leary, cited by the, indicated that he foresees profits of 1.6 billion euros in the finished fiscal year, below 1.9 billion from the previous year, due to an 8% reduction in the average ticket price.
More measurements on the horizon
Ryanair has recently been back to more hard restrictions on alcohol consumption at European airports to reduce incidents with drunk passengers on board. The proposal suggests limiting the purchase of alcoholic beverages to two per passenger, controlled through the departure card. “During delays, there is excessive alcohol consumption without any control,” said a company spokesman.
As a curiosity, know that Ryanair was the first European airline to exceed 200 million passengers transported in a single year. Despite its low-cost image, the company is one of the most investing in fleet renewal, having ordered more than 150 new Boeing 737 aircraft in recent years.
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