Ryanair: Blackpool to Riga

The carrier: Ryanair

About

The big daddy of them all, Irish low-cost carrier Ryanair maintains the most awe-inspiring route map and tends to add new destinations (and cancel unprofitable routes) at blistering, breakneck speed. Founded in 1985, Ryanair was Europe's original low fares airline and is still Europe's largest low fares carrier. At current count, Ryanair operates well over 1000 routes, from Inverness to Brindisi; Tampere to Tenerife.

It's easy to have lots of opinions about Ryanair; we certainly do. It's a big monster of an airline. We've been pleased as punch on Ryanair, psyched to take advantage of insanely cheap fares, and we've also been annoyed beyond belief with the airline, distressed by enormous surcharges on too-heavy luggage and staff who appear to be completely clueless.

With Ryanair more than with the other airlines we describe here, it pays to be informed about potential penalties and pitfalls.

Upside

Massive number of destinations. Really cheap fares.

Downside

Numerous extra charges when booking. Customer care isn't a priority. Food prices on board very steep.

Baggage

* Carry-on: One piece of luggage not to exceed 10 kg.
* Checked: Up to 3 bags with a combined weight of 15 kg. If booked on-line using Ryanair, the first bag is €15 and the second and third bags are €20 each. Over 15 kg, €15 per kg at the airport. Please note that Ryanair increases the price by €5 in July and August. 

* Please visit Ryanair’s website for more information on its baggage policy.

Seating

Since Ryanair is free for all when it comes to landing seats, it can sometimes be worth it to pay the €5 for priority boarding. In advance, book priority boarding status online, if you hold an EU passport.

Check-in and Ticketing

If you check in at the airport, you will also incur a €5 fee. The fee is €10 at the airport.  Note that American passengers can only check in at the airport.  Online check-in is available from 15 days to 4 hours before departure.  The boarding pass can be printed until 40 minutes before departure.  If you lose your pass then you will have to pay a fee to have a new one reissued.  Bag drop closes 40 minutes before departure, so if you check-in online you must make sure to have your bags in on time.

Tip

Book online whenever possible because fees are significantly reduced.  Also familiarize yourself with Ryanair's table of fees.

Departure: Blackpool, United Kingdom - Blackpool International (BLK)

Blackpool International Airport has recently had an increase in traffic due to the opening of routes by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Jet2.com. Location: Blackpool International Airport is located 4.8 km southeast of Blackpool, Lancashire in North West England. Transport: - Rail: There are Northern Rail Pacer and Sprinter trains available to Blackpool South, Colne, and Preston stations via the Squires Gate railway station. There is a Blackpool tram service from Starr Gate tram stop on the Blackpool tramway as well northbound to Fleetwood, Bispham, and Cleveleys. - Bus: There is bus service with routes in all directions to Blackpool, Fleetwood, Lytham St Annes, Preston and Manchester. - Taxi: In the terminal there are free telephones available to request a taxi. Service: The airport offers boutiques and duty-free shops as well as a few places to eat. Currency exchange and information desks are also available. more...

Arrival: Riga, Latvia - Riga International (RIX)

Riga International Airport is the largest airport in the Baltic States and serves Riga, the capital city of Latvia. Location: Riga International Airport is located 13 km southwest of Riga. Transport: - Bus: Direct service between the airport and Riga's city center is provided by Bus #22. The bus arrives every ten to 30 minutes. Bus #22A connects the airport to the Riga city center as well, but provides a faster express service. Additional information on bus lines and schedules can be found on the website. - Taxi: Taxis are outside the terminal building. The journey to the center of the city is approximately 15 minutes. It is highly recommended that the fare be agreed upon with the driver before the ride. Service: In the airport there are multiple shops (including duty-free), restaurants, banks, a post office, and a currency exchange. The airport also has Wi-Fi Internet access. Other facilities include a chapel. Airport tours are also given for those interested.