Ryanair: Malta to Bari

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: Malta, Malta - Malta International (Luqa) (MLA)

Malta International Airport, sometimes called Luqa Airport by locals or Valletta Airport internationally, is the only airport in Malta and serves the whole Maltese Archipelago. Location: Malta International Airport is located 8 km from the capital city of Valletta. Transport: - Bus: There is a public bus line (Bus #8) that provides regular service to and from the airport and the main bus terminal in Valletta. Buses can be found outside the Check-in Hall. - Taxi: Taxis can be found outside the main terminal building. Taxi service is available 24-hours a day from the airport to any destination in Malta. Fixed rates are applicable. Service: In the airport, there are various restaurants, cafes, and shops. Other airport amenities include: Post office, banks, Wi-Fi Internet access, and public telephones throughout. more...

Arrival: Bari, Italy - Palese Macchie (BRI)

Bari International Airport or "Aeroporto di Bari," also known as Palese Macchie Airport or "Aeroporto di Palese Macchie" after a nearby neighborhood, is an airport serving the city of Bari in Italy.

Location:

Bari International Airport is located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest from the Bari town center. Bari is located on Italy's southeastern edge, at the top of the county's "heel."

Transport:

•Rail: The Tempesta Bus Company links the airport with the central railway station.
•Bus: The Amtab Bus offers service to and from the Bari city center.
•Taxi: Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall.

Service:

In the airport there are gift shops, tobacconist/newsagents, travel agency, ATM machines. and duty-free shop. There are also restaurants, snack bars, vending machines, and bars. Travelers and visitors are also able to see the Chapel that is located near the arrival area, which is devoted to the Madonna di Loreto, and was consecrated by Pope John Paul II, when he visited Bari in February of 1984.