Ryanair has launched a new loyalty scheme, Ryanair Prime, offering frequent travelers exclusive discounts and benefits that could save them up to €420 per year. The budget airline’s subscription-based program costs €79 annually and includes perks such as free reserved seats, free travel insurance, and access to 12 member-exclusive sales.
Available on a first-come, first-served basis to the first 250,000 customers, Ryanair Prime is designed for passengers who fly multiple times a year and want to maximize their savings. According to Ryanair, travelers who take at least 12 flights per year will see the biggest benefit, with potential savings amounting to more than five times the subscription fee. Even those flying just three times a year could still save €105, surpassing the membership cost.
A Shift in Ryanair’s Approach
The introduction of Ryanair Prime marks a surprising shift for the airline, given that CEO Michael O’Leary previously dismissed the idea of a frequent-flyer program. In a 2024 interview with The Independent, he famously stated that customers looking for loyalty perks should “buy a dog”, insisting that Ryanair already offered the lowest fares in Europe.
Despite this earlier stance, Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, highlighted the new program as a natural extension of the airline’s commitment to affordability. “Ryanair Prime is a new subscriber discount scheme for frequent flyers that want to fly regularly but don’t want to break the bank to do so,” he said.
The loyalty scheme provides an alternative to traditional airline rewards programs, which often rely on complex mileage systems. Instead, Ryanair Prime focuses on straightforward savings and practical benefits, making it appealing to budget-conscious travelers.
With travel demand rising across Europe, Ryanair’s move could attract even more passengers looking for ways to cut costs. However, with only 250,000 spots available, travelers eager to join may need to act fast.
