Changes are coming to the world of air travel for the year 2026. Possibly the biggest changes to affect travelers will be the changes that will take place regarding boarding passes. Airlines are changing their policies, so travelers must be aware of how their changes will affect their travel experience. This article will serve as a guide for the new boarding pass policies for popular UK Airlines, including British Airways, TUI, EasyJet, and Ryanair, especially after Ryanair made the decision to go fully digital.
Ryanair’s Digital-Only Shift
Ryanair has been leading the charge in transitioning to fully digital boarding passes. In recent years, the airline has phased out paper passes entirely, requiring all passengers to use smartphones for their boarding passes. This move comes after Ryanair found that 60% of its passengers were already using digital passes. It also fits into their broader strategy of reducing airport check-in services, as the airline plans to eliminate check-in desks altogether in the near future.
For 2026, if you fly with Ryanair, you must check in online and download your boarding pass to your phone. Forgetting this could result in a hefty £55 fee for airport check-in services. However, if you lose your phone or face battery issues, Ryanair will offer a printed boarding pass free of charge, as long as you’ve checked in online in advance.
British Airways: Flexibility with Both Digital and Paper Options
British Airways continues to offer flexibility when it comes to boarding passes. Passengers can either download a digital pass on their smartphones or print a paper pass at home. For those who prefer a printed version but don’t have access to a printer, British Airways provides kiosks at the airport where you can print your boarding pass for free.
Moreover, BA passengers can use the British Airways app, which notifies you when check-in opens and provides details like gate numbers and flight status. Even if you can’t connect to the internet, the app allows you to access your boarding pass and flight details. Apple Watch owners have the added convenience of downloading their boarding pass to Passbook/Wallet, allowing easy scanning at security and boarding gates.
EasyJet: Going Digital While Keeping Paper Options
EasyJet has followed a similar path to Ryanair, encouraging passengers to use digital boarding passes. For the most part, passengers are expected to check in online and download their passes. However, EasyJet is not entirely abandoning paper passes. In some cases, such as when a flight is canceled or delayed, the airline might provide a printed boarding pass at the airport.
Passengers flying EasyJet in 2026 should be prepared to use a smartphone for their boarding pass. However, in case of technical issues, like a dead phone battery, EasyJet is flexible and will assist passengers with printed passes at the airport.
TUI Airways: A More Traditional Approach
TUI Airways still allows both digital and paper boarding passes. After checking in online, you can opt to download a digital pass or print it out yourself. TUI recognizes that some passengers might not have access to smartphones or prefer the security of a paper boarding pass, so they are one of the few airlines maintaining the paper option. TUI also offers a mobile app that allows you to manage your boarding pass digitally if preferred.
For travelers flying TUI in 2026, it’s important to check the airline’s website for specific instructions on the boarding pass requirements for your flight, as rules may vary by route or aircraft type.
Key Takeaways for Travelers in 2026
- Digital Boarding Passes: Most airlines, including Ryanair, EasyJet, and British Airways, now encourage passengers to use digital boarding passes. This trend is expected to continue in 2026, offering more convenience and reducing the need for paper.
- Paper Passes Are Still an Option: While Ryanair has eliminated paper passes, airlines like British Airways, EasyJet, and TUI still provide passengers with the option of a printed pass if necessary. Make sure to check the airline’s policies based on your preferences and needs.
- Smartphone Reliance: In the era of digital passes, a smartphone is key for modern travel. Ensure that your device is charged and functional, as some airlines may charge fees for airport check-ins if you forget to download your pass.
- Airport Check-In Fees: For airlines like Ryanair, not having a digital boarding pass could result in high fees for on-site check-in. Avoid these costs by ensuring that you check in online before arriving at the airport.
- Travel App Benefits: Many airlines offer mobile apps that provide real-time notifications, including check-in opening times, gate information, and other flight details. Using these apps can help you stay on top of any last-minute changes or alerts.
- In Case of Emergency: If your phone fails or you lose access to your digital boarding pass, airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet are prepared to assist by providing a printed pass in such circumstances.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, it will be important for travelers to know the rules regarding boarding passes. Some airlines have gone completely digital, while others give their customers the option of a paper boarding pass. Always check the airline’s website before your flight to know their rules. Make sure your phone is charged, or have a backup that will allow you to access your boarding pass. Doing these things will make your trip easier, whether you are traveling with British Airways, TUI, EasyJet, or Ryanair.
Travel smart to avoid problems.
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