The National Civil Aviation Authority informed Ryanair that it cannot prevent passengers from boarding just for presenting a paper boarding pass, even though the company favors digital. According to the RTP website, the authority emphasizes that the carrier must refrain from any practice that limits boarding to passengers with a confirmed reservation and checked-in, as they do not have a digital boarding pass.
Passage to digital and guaranteed rights
Ryanair recently announced that it intends to accept only digital boarding passes, as part of a strategy to modernize its check‑in processes.
According to the same source, the measure comes into force this week, but ANAC stressed that passengers who do not have a smartphone or encounter technological difficulties should continue to be entitled to printed cards at no additional cost.
The company argues that digitalization facilitates operations and reduces queues at airports, but for the regulatory authority, passenger rights cannot be compromised. The simple fact of having a confirmed reservation and check-in completed is enough to board, even without a digital card.
Conditions established by ANAC
According to the ANAC statement, Ryanair should not charge any fee for issuing or using printed cards. The authority previously analyzed the information published by the company and the clarifications provided, ensuring that there will be no constraints for passengers. Surveillance will continue to ensure that standards are met and that rights are respected.
For travelers, this means that the paper boarding pass continues to be accepted if check‑in was done online, without the need to use digital means.
The introduction of the digital card does not remove this right, and any issuance of a paper card at the airport counter must be done free of charge, according to the same RTP source.
The impact on passengers
This intervention by the authorities is seen as positive for those traveling with Ryanair. Many passengers who are not used to using mobile applications or the internet will continue to board without obstacles. ANAC reinforces that it will closely monitor the implementation of the measure, ensuring that no illegitimate fees or impediments arise.
The digitization of boarding passes by Ryanair can move forward, but with clear safeguards in Portugal, determined by ANAC.
As stated, the airline will have to ensure that all passengers, digital or not, can board without problems, leaving many travelers satisfied with the guarantee of their rights.
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