Introduction
Ryanair, one of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines, has gained a reputation for providing budget-friendly travel options. Founded in 1984, the airline has been instrumental in making air travel more accessible across Europe by offering affordable flight options to travelers. However, with low-cost travel comes a compromise in terms of services and comfort. This review aims to give a comprehensive look at what flying with Ryanair is truly like. We’ll cover everything from booking tickets to the overall flying experience, highlighting both the positives and the drawbacks, and offering a balanced, detailed perspective based on real user feedback.
Booking & Website/App Experience with Ryanair
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Ryanair’s website and mobile app are often a point of contention for travelers. The booking process is relatively simple, but it comes with several challenges that can make the experience frustrating for many passengers.
Website Usability
The website is generally functional, with a straightforward flight search tool and an easy-to-follow booking process. However, it is often criticized for being cluttered with pop-ups, upsells, and advertisements promoting add-ons like priority boarding, extra legroom, and travel insurance. These constant upsells can detract from the overall booking experience, especially when you’re just trying to book a simple ticket. Many users have shared their frustration about the added pressure to purchase extras, making the process feel like a game of “opt-out” rather than a transparent, streamlined transaction.
Mobile App Experience
The mobile app, while useful, is not as reliable as one would expect from an airline of Ryanair’s size. Several passengers have reported issues with app crashes, errors during payment, and difficulties navigating the app, especially when trying to manage bookings or add services post-purchase. Reviews often highlight problems with check-in, where passengers can face glitches and delays that could lead to additional charges if their check-in fails on the app.
Additionally, there are numerous complaints about the lack of support for certain functionalities, such as managing seat reservations or being unable to view real-time updates on flight statuses. Given that many passengers opt for mobile booking, Ryanair’s app experience does not meet the expectations set by more established carriers.
Overall User Experience
Despite offering a convenient platform for booking, Ryanair’s website and mobile app can feel overwhelming and error-prone. The constant push for additional purchases and lack of smooth functionality makes the booking process more stressful than it needs to be. Passengers report that while booking a flight is possible, it’s not as user-friendly as it should be.
Check-in Process with Ryanair
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
The check-in process is mandatory for all Ryanair flights and must be completed online or via the app. While online check-in is relatively straightforward, it often becomes a source of frustration for many passengers, especially those who don’t purchase priority boarding.
Online Check-in Experience
Online check-in for Ryanair opens 30 days before departure, and passengers are required to check in at least 2 hours before departure to avoid additional charges. While the process itself is designed to be easy, numerous passengers have encountered issues with the Ryanair app or website not functioning properly, leading to a failed check-in process. This, in turn, results in unexpected fees at the airport for people who are unable to check in online or who are directed to the check-in counter despite having completed everything on their mobile devices.
Unexpected Fees
Some passengers have shared stories of being forced to pay additional fees because their check-in process wasn’t recognized, leading to delays and frustration. Some travelers have also reported that after purchasing tickets with the “cheapest option,” they are still charged for things like baggage or seat selections, despite being told that these costs were optional.
User Feedback
There have been complaints regarding the lack of support when things go wrong. Travelers have said that contacting Ryanair’s customer service for assistance with check-in issues is time-consuming and sometimes unhelpful. Long hold times and insufficient problem resolution have led to a negative perception of the airline’s check-in system.
Airport Experience for Ryanair
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Ryanair operates out of both primary and secondary airports, which can affect the convenience of the airport experience. Secondary airports, in particular, tend to be more remote and less equipped with the amenities travelers are accustomed to at major hubs.
Airport Facilities
Many passengers who fly with Ryanair end up flying from airports that are farther from the city center and less well-equipped. While this can sometimes translate into lower fees at the airport, it often means a lack of services like lounges, sufficient seating, and high-quality shops or restaurants. Passengers who are used to major hubs like Heathrow or Schiphol may find these smaller airports less comfortable.
Boarding Procedures
When it comes to boarding, Ryanair typically adheres to a strict policy regarding baggage size and weight. This can create delays, particularly when travelers are caught unprepared or forced to pay additional charges at the gate. Many travelers have shared that they felt rushed or reprimanded by gate agents regarding baggage, and some have even faced additional fines when their carry-on baggage exceeded the stated dimensions, which led to boarding stress.
Overall Airport Experience
Overall, Ryanair’s airport experience isn’t terrible but is certainly less than luxurious. The airlines’ use of secondary airports can sometimes save money, but it also leads to lower comfort and limited facilities. Boarding procedures can be chaotic, especially during peak hours, and the airline’s strict baggage policies can cause delays.
Punctuality of Ryanair
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
One area where Ryanair excels is punctuality. The airline consistently boasts a high on-time performance rate, which is a key factor for many travelers when choosing an airline. Based on statistics for 2024, Ryanair maintained an on-time performance rate of around 87%. While delays can occur, Ryanair’s record in this area is better than many other low-cost carriers.
Reliability
Ryanair is known for its ability to maintain timely departures and arrivals, even when flying from smaller airports. Delays are typically minimal, and when they do happen, passengers are usually informed promptly. However, in cases of extended delays or cancellations, Ryanair does offer compensation and rebooking services, though the process can be cumbersome.
User Feedback on Punctuality
Most passengers are pleased with the punctuality of Ryanair flights. The airline is regarded as one of the more reliable low-cost carriers, and travelers appreciate the accuracy of their schedules. However, some users have shared that unexpected delays, while rare, can still occur, especially during high-demand periods or adverse weather conditions.
In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness of Ryanair
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Comfort on Ryanair flights is a major area where the airline cuts costs. While the airline offers extremely low fares, the trade-off is a basic, no-frills experience that may not appeal to those accustomed to higher levels of comfort.
Seating Comfort
Ryanair’s seats are slim and offer little in terms of legroom, with many passengers complaining that the seating is uncomfortable, especially on longer flights. The lack of seat recline and limited space can make even short flights feel cramped. Taller passengers, in particular, may find the seating uncomfortable, and the overall design of the cabin doesn’t prioritize passenger comfort.
Cleanliness
The cleanliness of Ryanair flights has generally received mixed reviews. While the planes are generally clean at the start of the flight, there are occasional reports of dirty tray tables, armrests, and restrooms during longer flights. However, many passengers feel that the airline does a decent job of maintaining cleanliness, given the volume of passengers it serves.
User Feedback on Comfort
Most users do not expect luxury when flying with Ryanair, and for the most part, they are not disappointed. However, for longer journeys or flights that require a bit more space, passengers may feel that the lack of comfort is a significant drawback. The cramped seats and lack of amenities (such as in-flight entertainment) leave many feeling less than satisfied.
In-flight Services of Ryanair
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, and as such, its in-flight services are minimal at best.
Food & Beverages
Ryanair does not offer complimentary snacks or beverages. Instead, passengers must purchase food and drinks, which are often overpriced and considered subpar by many travelers. The selection is limited, and the quality is often called into question. Many passengers complain that the food offerings are expensive for the portion sizes and quality provided.
Entertainment & Amenities
Ryanair does not provide in-flight entertainment such as movies or TV shows, which is a standard feature for many larger carriers. Passengers are expected to provide their own entertainment, such as books, music, or downloaded content. For those who require additional amenities, like blankets or pillows, these are not offered unless purchased.
User Feedback on Services
Overall, the in-flight services are quite basic, and passengers typically don’t expect much. The lack of complimentary services, such as snacks, drinks, or entertainment, often disappoints those looking for a more comfortable or luxurious flying experience.
Baggage Handling of Ryanair
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Ryanair has a fairly standard baggage handling system, though it is notorious for its strict baggage policies.
Baggage Fees
One of the most frequent complaints from passengers is the baggage fees. Ryanair charges for both checked luggage and cabin bags that exceed specific dimensions, which can lead to frustration if you’re not careful with your packing. Passengers have reported paying higher baggage fees than anticipated, especially if they are forced to check in luggage at the gate due to size discrepancies.
Lost Baggage
There have been occasional reports of lost luggage, though these issues are not as common as with some other carriers. When luggage does go missing, the recovery process can be slow, and passengers often report difficulty in reaching customer service for assistance.
User Feedback on Baggage
While Ryanair’s baggage policy can be inconvenient, it is clear and well-established. Travelers who plan ahead and check their baggage dimensions carefully can avoid most of the frustration. However, for those who experience problems with lost baggage or unexpected charges, the process can feel like an additional headache.
Value for Money of Ryanair
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Ryanair’s biggest selling point is its low-cost flights, which offer great value for money if you are flexible and can manage the additional costs of extras.
Low Fares
For short-haul flights, Ryanair provides some of the most affordable fares available. With careful planning and attention to their add-on services, travelers can book tickets for very low prices. This makes Ryanair an attractive option for those who are just looking to get from point A to point B without all the bells and whistles.
Extras & Hidden Costs
While the basic ticket prices are low, many passengers report that Ryanair’s additional fees for things like seat selection, baggage, and food can add up quickly. For budget-conscious travelers, it’s important to keep track of these costs to ensure the total price remains affordable.
User Feedback on Value
Most passengers feel that Ryanair delivers excellent value for money if they are prepared for the potential extra charges. The airline is a great choice for short trips and for passengers who don’t mind forgoing luxury and comfort for the sake of a cheap flight.
Overall Experience of Ryanair
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Ryanair provides a no-frills, budget-friendly travel experience. While there are many areas where the airline cuts corners—such as seating comfort, in-flight services, and baggage policies—the low prices and punctuality make it an appealing option for many travelers. However, those seeking comfort and luxury may find Ryanair lacking.
Summary
For travelers prioritizing cost over comfort, Ryanair offers an affordable, reliable way to travel across Europe. However, the airline’s lack of amenities, frequent upselling, and occasional service issues can detract from the overall experience for passengers who expect more.
Final Verdict of Ryanair
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Ryanair is a low-cost carrier that delivers on its promise of affordable air travel. The airline offers competitive pricing and maintains high punctuality, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, the lack of in-flight comfort, minimal services, and numerous extra charges can leave some passengers feeling dissatisfied.
For those who simply need to get from one destination to another without the need for luxury, Ryanair offers great value. However, for passengers seeking a more comfortable or full-service flying experience, there are better options available.
Ultimately, Ryanair is best suited for short-haul, budget-friendly journeys where passengers are prepared to manage additional costs and don’t mind the basic level of comfort.