Ryanair: Dundee to Poitiers

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: Dundee, United Kingdom - Dundee (DND)

Dundee Airport is a smaller airport to the south of Dundee. Location: Dundee Airport is located three km from the city center of Dundee, Scotland. Transport: Rail and bus stations serve Tayside and the surrounding regions of Scotland. - Rail: First ScotRail, CrossCountry, and National Express East Coast are the rail companies that serve Dundee railway station - which is only a short distance from the airport. - Bus: The Dundee Airport is also a short taxi ride away from the main bus station where travelers can find multiple buses to destinations all over the country. - Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport. more...

Arrival: Poitiers, France - Biard (PIS)

Poitiers – Biard Airport or "Aéroport de Poitiers-Biard" opened a new air terminal in January 2002 which allows for more comfortable reception conditions and optimal service.

Location

Poitiers – Biard Airport is located 2.4 kilometers west of Poitiers, France.

Transport

• Taxi: Taxis are available at a stand outside of the airport. Transport to and from the airport to the Poitiers city center is very short and the fare should only be around €5.

Services

Inside the airport there is a bar/restaurant where travelers can enjoy a panoramic view of the airport strips as well as conveniently located cash dispensers. The airport is also Wi-Fi accessible.