Ryanair have announced the launch of a service to deliver booking confirmation numbers directly to passenger mobile phones via SMS for “Just” 1 Euro.
I have a couple of issues with this. Firstly, the cost. Bulk SMS services will allow Ryanair to send these messages out at no more than a couple of pennies. That’s quite a mark-up I am sure you’ll all agree.
Secondly, and more importantly, I am slightly unsure as to what the benefit of having your booking confirmation number sent to your mobile is if you will soon no longer be allowed to check in at the airport? If online check in is mandatory, why the need for an SMS? Everything will be done at home and then boarding cards printed out. Ryanair say “Ryanair’s text service will allow passengers to easily retrieve their confirmation number when check in online and printing of their boarding card before travel.“. What is wrong with checking your email, you are already on your computer, so why add another device to the process?
This is quite simply another revenue generating scam. Certainly the big thing to watch out for is having the “send to my mobile” option pre-checked for you when completing your booking. Make sure you uncheck this if this is the case.
I spotted this new scam over two weeks ago on their website. From the UK it costs £1 currently 17% more than anywhere else in Europe!
i found the box for first on board with ryan air also prechecked but not untill i had accepted also return flight not issued with on line boarding ticket the cost was £8 but cant contact thebooking staff unless ihang onto a phone at premium costs