The low-cost airline has introduced a €117 fee for travellers who arrive at the airport less than 40 minutes before their flight’s scheduled departure. This change, in many cases, exceeds the cost of the ticket itself.

The penalty applies even if passengers manage to rebook onto a later flight. Those who arrive up to an hour after their original flight has departed will also be charged, provided other flights are available.

Ryanair says the policy is designed to improve punctuality and encourage better planning. However, critics argue the move disproportionately affects those delayed by traffic, long security queues, or public transportation issues.

Passengers have voiced frustration, calling the fee a “cash grab” that punishes minor mistakes and turns unexpected delays into guaranteed profit for the airline.

The late-arrival fine follows a pattern of controversial Ryanair policies. Failure to check in online at least two hours before departure results in additional airport fees. The airline has increasingly pushed for a digital-only experience to streamline operations and reduce airport staffing, often at the expense of unprepared or less tech-savvy travellers.

While Ryanair advises arriving early, checking in days in advance, and monitoring flight updates, even well-prepared passengers risk being caught out by unforeseen delays.

The airline has defended its policy, but with frustration mounting online, consumer groups are warning travellers to read the fine print and plan carefully, or risk paying far more than expected.