Ryanair Seating Allocation

SaveTheEuro

Has anyone experienced Ryanair's new system of not allocating a seat until shortly before flying? While check-in now opens 72 (rather than 24) hours in advance, the initital boarding pass doesn't give a seat number. Apparently, this is a trial on some routes and would not affect those who pay for an allocated seat. Does the boarding pass update automatically or need refreshing on arrival at the departure airport? Exactly how many hours before departure does this take place?

flaneurs_lobster

I'm quite sure that this change is to Ryanair's advantage - I just haven't quite worked out how/why.

Woodstok2000

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6690092/ryanair-seating-allocation

I think theyre being assigned at the gate now, or just before boarding starts. It's to try and force more people into paying for seats.

MeteredOut

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82198037#Comment_82198037

People don't like uncertainty and Ryanair will be testing if this change means they more likely to pay to book a seat.

Woodstok2000

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82198037#Comment_82198037

Previously you could see your seat at checkin, 24 hours ahead, and if you're happy with it you wouldnt buy a seat. I guess theyre hoping more people will buy seats to remove the element of chance.

For example, flying back from majorca recently we were randomly assigned exit row seats, so no chance I'm paying for a reservation. Undr the new system that chance has increased marginally!

fifeken

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82198037#Comment_82198037

Why am I not surprised?

zagfles

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82198047#Comment_82198047

Yup, we've found that if we check in late, getting a "premium" seat is more likely. Presumably because nobody wanted to pay the price they were asking for them and they were the only ones left.

Maybe now you need to try to board last 😂I usually do anyway as it means I can usually get my "under seat" bag in the overhead locker.

zagfles

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82198045#Comment_82198045

I do. It's a fun part of travelling Ryanair 😁