Ryanair: Shannon to Nantes

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: Shannon, Ireland (SNN)

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Arrival: Nantes, France - Nantes Atlantique (NTE)

Nantes Atlantique Airport or "Aéroport Nantes Atlantique," formerly known as "Aéroport Château Bougon," is an international airport serving Nantes and is the largest airport in the west of France.

Location

Nantes Atlantique Airport is located 9 kilometers (6 miles) southwest of the city of Nantes in Bouguenais.

Transport

• Bus: The TAN Air Shuttle links the center of Nantes to the airport. Also, a bus stops outside of Hall 1 and goes to La Neustrie terminus on the tramway line. Travelers are then brought very close to Place du Commerce, located in the heart of the city.
• Taxi: A taxi rank is located on the esplanade in front of hall 1. Fares into the city usually range from €25 to €30.

Services

Telephones are available throughout the airport along with Wi-Fi access. There are many shops, a bakery and a few bars for travelers to relax in. Other airport facilities include first aid, a currency exchange, a baby change facility and a photo booth. The information desks are located in halls on the ground floor.