From November 2026, Ryanair will close check-in desks 20 minutes earlier to give passengers more time to get through the airport, hoping to lessen the number of passengers missing their flights.
The new requirements
Ryanair has stated that it will now require check-ins to be done one hour before take-off rather than 40 minutes. The airline hopes the change will reduce the number of flights missed by passengers waiting in queues for airport security and passport control.
The airline clarified that the introduction of Europe’s Entry-Exit System (EES) was not the reason behind the change, but it described it as a factor in the longer queues for passport control.
Systems for quicker service
Most passengers will not be affected by this 20-minute change, Ryanair said. The airline reported that around 80% of its passengers complete the information online and go straight to departures, whereas only around 20% check in bags. Many travel with no luggage or pay for cabin bags only.
By October 2026, the airline plans to have 95% of its airports operating self-service, bag-drop kiosks. Dara Brady, the chief marketing officer of Ryanair, stated:
“[This will entail a] quicker bag-drop service, less queueing at airport desks, and an even more punctual service for the 20% of our customers who still wish to check in a bag.”
The airline has faced controversy over its changes to baggage rules and consistent strict enforcement of regulations. Many of the changes have resulted in public criticism, but the chief executive of the airline, Michael O’Leary, stated that those travelling should appreciate that they are being encouraged to travel light.
What do you think about Ryanair’s new requirements? Let us know in the comments below.
Nice one! Straightforward and effective.