Ryanair passengers have their say as airline teases new fee for customers

Budget airline Ryanair has posted on social media about introducing a fee for passengers, sparking humorous reactions as travellers devise clever methods to avoid the potential charge

Budget carrier Ryanair presents an attractive option for those seeking wallet-friendly European getaways, with fares typically undercutting numerous competing airlines. Yet expenses can escalate rapidly when travellers opt for extras or upgraded seats.

While passengers have grown increasingly inventive in sidestepping these supplementary costs – purchasing specially designed luggage that meets the airline’s hand baggage specifications, or concealing extra bags from staff – the carrier has now hinted at introducing additional levies. This comes after the airline’s playful suggestion that they might impose a denim charge on passengers sporting jeans aboard their aircraft. Via their social media channels, Ryanair revealed they were mulling over a fresh charge for in-flight passengers that could potentially diminish journey comfort.

“Coming soon… toilet usage fee,” they declared on the company’s Facebook page.

However, customers weren’t amused, swiftly conjuring up another ingenious tactic to circumvent this prospective extra cost.

“Life hack – wear a nappy,” one individual suggested. Another user concurred, stating: “I’ll bring my diaper.”

Someone else queried: “Can I pre book the toilet for the entire duration,” while another person remarked: “Finally! A good purpose for my empty bottle, which I forgot to fill after the security.”

While some believed it seemed like a reasonable proposal, arguing it would ‘stop people getting up’ constantly throughout the journey, others wondered if the announcement had come a few days too early.

“Announcement on April the 1st,” one individual speculated, alluding to April Fools Day, while another commented: “Its not April 1st yet.”

Ryanair charges you should be aware of

Although the low-cost airline may regularly seem to provide exceptional value, numerous first-time flyers might be unaware of the multiple extra fees that can be tacked onto the total price of their plane tickets.

While most travellers are acquainted with standard aviation rules – including liquid limits and luggage dimension restrictions – particular airline regulations continue to surprise even the most experienced globetrotters. Among Ryanair’s strictest rules is its £55 airport check-in fee for travellers who arrive without having completed online check-in beforehand. Those flying from Spanish airports face a slightly reduced penalty of £30. To sidestep this charge, simply use the Ryanair app or website to check in ahead of time – it’s free and only takes moments.

Additionally, passengers who check in online but fail to print or save their boarding pass will be hit with a £20 fee at the airport to have it reissued. Boarding passes can be downloaded and printed through Ryanair’s website or via their mobile app. If you miss your flight, Ryanair levies a £100 missed departure fee to transfer you to the next available service – even if you’re just minutes late. This charge applies per person and per flight, meaning costs can escalate quickly, especially for groups or those with connecting flights.

The £100 penalty kicks in if you arrive anywhere from 40 minutes before departure up to one hour after the plane has taken off. Even passengers already inside the airport who miss the cut-off time could still be liable for the charge.

To prevent unwelcome expenses, consult Ryanair’s website for the latest travel guidance, and always review the terms and conditions before flying.