Ryanair: Murcia to Zaragoza

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: Murcia, Spain - San Javier (MJV)

Murcia-San Javier Airport functions as both a military air base and civilian passenger airport. Recently, Murcia Airport has become much busier due to the arrival of many low-cost carriers. The airport itself has become essential in the holiday and tourism industry of Murcia. Location: Murcia-San Javier Airport is located in the municipality of San Javier, 17 miles south of Murcia, Spain. Transport: - Bus: A service between Murcia -San Javier Airport and Murcia Bus Station. Latbus is available via Line 73. The trip should last about 45 minutes in total. For more information visit the bus company’s Official Website. - Taxi: The taxi rank is located outside the Terminal building. It is important to note that the limit of passengers on most Murcia Airport taxis are four people (including children). It is recommended that transfers for larger parties should be booked in advance. Service: The airport offers a few restaurants and shops for travelers to enjoy. more...

Arrival: Zaragoza, Spain (ZAZ)

Zaragoza Airport is a joint civil-military airport. The airport is also used by NASA as a contingency landing site for the Space Shuttle in the case of an emergency landing. The airport has recently made plans to carry out improvements on infrastructures in order to modernize and adapt the airport. As a result, in February, a new passenger terminal has been opened, which will make it possible to absorb the increase in passenger traffic forecasted in the near future. Location: Zaragoza airport is located southwest of the city, approximately 10 km from the city center. Transport: - Bus: There is bus service to and from the airport and the city center. These buses, which run in conjunction with the flight schedule, can be found just outside the terminal building. - Taxi: Taxis at the airport can be found outside the doors of the Arrival Halls. Generally there will be no wait to find one because the taxi drivers know when the schedule of incoming flights. The taxis at Zaragoza Airport can be found by the doors in the arrivals hall. Service: Although small, Zaragoza airport contains three information points for travelers. There is also a shop, restaurant, and an ATM available. more...