Economical But Incredibly Frustrating (Ryanair)

Member Name: nilo0901

Product:	Ryanair
Date:	22/10/09 (17 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap, staff are decent

Disadvantages: Hidden costs, hidden costs, hidden costs

Ryanair is a bit like Marmite: you either love it or you hate it. Either way, you can't argue with the value for money you get. Flights are indeed very cheap at times and this cannot be questioned (even with the 'extra' charges). However, on principle, I try to fly as little as possible on Ryanair because of their, or more accurately Michael O'Leary's, values. Only if a flight is vastly less expensive will I fly with them. If it's a matter of a £10or £20 difference I am more likely to fly with someone else.

So, why don't I like them? Nothing you'll hear here is going to be new or something you've not heard before. I find them to be deceitful and lack transparency in order to get people to fly with them.

So, you think you're getting a cheap flight at £1. Well of course you're not. We all know you are not and accept that you have to pay the taxes on top and can roughly estimate what these will be. That said, other airlines such as Easyjet now offer this info upfront so you know what you are paying from the outset. But OK, tax is in addition, this I can cope with as you know this before you get to the paying stages.

Oh, and now I have to pay for a bag. Again, standard for budget airlines so no real complaints there. What if I don't want to take a bag - oh, I have to check in online. And wait, there's a charge here too of £5 for the pleasure of Mr O'Leary having to employ less Airport staff. Oh, and hang on, why do you keep adding the travel insurance on when I keep unticking it? Hmmmm....

Then there is the credit card transaction fee that is extortionate... and per person per one-way trip. Why per person and per one way trip when it is one transaction? This can add £20 to your bill....

If they introduce a paying scheme to use the toilet as muted that really will take the biscuit. What next??.... imagine you're own suggestion here as I wouldn't wish to be liable.

One good thing is the introduction of being able to use a mobile on board the flight. I know this will divide opinion and many will think it will disrupt the peace, aid terrorism, etc... but I like the freedom of being able to contact people. I personally hate flying and the fact I can talk to someone on the ground makes me feel more reassured.

The staff do their best too although are never exceedingly friendly. I can't really fault them as they are efficient and well mannered.

So there it is, my rant. Once you've paid all the extras, it adds up to being of a similar price to other low cost airlines but with a hell of a lot of frustration thrown in for good measure. Look elsewhere... I am.

Summary: If like me you find the principle annoying, look elsewhere