What is the 24-hour rule for Ryanair? What You Need to Know

What is the 24-hour rule for Ryanair? What You Need to Know

Understanding Ryanair's 24-Hour Rule: What You Need to Know [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA]

Booking a flight can be a stressful experience—double-checking names, dates, destinations, and baggage options. With so many details, it's easy to make a mistake. Fortunately, Ryanair offers a limited-time window to make corrections after booking: the 24-hour rule [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA].

In this article, we’ll break down exactly what the Ryanair 24-hour rule is, what changes are allowed, what’s not covered, and how you can take action quickly to avoid fees [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA]. We'll also provide Ryanair's customer service numbers for travelers in the USA and the UK for added convenience.


What is the 24-Hour Rule for Ryanair?

Ryanair’s 24-hour rule allows customers to correct minor booking errors free of charge within 24 hours of making a reservation [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA]. This policy is designed to give travelers peace of mind if they make small mistakes during the booking process, such as spelling errors in names or choosing the wrong flight time.

It’s important to note that this is not a cancellation policy. You cannot cancel your flight and receive a refund under this rule. However, if you act quickly, you can avoid paying potentially hefty change fees.


What Can You Change Under the 24-Hour Rule?

Ryanair permits the following changes within 24 hours of booking:

✅ Name Corrections

You can fix minor spelling errors in the name of the passenger. For example:

  • Typing "Jonh" instead of "John"

  • Forgetting a middle name

  • Reversing first and last names

However, changing the name entirely or transferring the ticket to another person may still incur fees.

✅ Route Adjustments

If you accidentally booked the wrong departure or arrival airport, you can correct it within 24 hours. The fare difference will apply, but the change fee is waived.

✅ Flight Time or Date

If you chose the wrong date or time, you can correct it within the first 24 hours. Again, while you may need to pay any fare difference, you won’t be charged a flight change fee.


What Is NOT Covered by Ryanair’s 24-Hour Rule?

Even though the 24-hour rule is generous in some ways, there are limitations:

  • Refunds are not available under this policy. If you want to cancel entirely, Ryanair’s standard non-refundable fare policy applies.

  • Major name changes (e.g., replacing “Alex Smith” with “John Doe”) are not free.

  • ❌ Changes made after the 24-hour window are subject to standard change fees and fare differences.

  • Additional services like seat selections or baggage can’t be removed for a refund, though you can add more items within the time frame.

For clarification on what qualifies as a valid correction, you can contact Ryanair’s customer support directly:

  • From the USA: +1-877-287-5031

  • From the UK: (+44) 808 175-7394


How to Make Changes Within 24 Hours

To benefit from Ryanair's 24-hour change policy, follow these simple steps:

1. Log In to Your Ryanair Account

Go to www.ryanair.com and log into your MyRyanair account. Locate your booking under "My Bookings."

2. Click "Manage My Booking"

Here you’ll find options to change your flight details, correct names, or add services.

3. Make Corrections

Input the necessary changes. If you're within 24 hours of booking, and your corrections fall under the allowed categories, the change fee should automatically be waived.

4. Contact Customer Support if Needed

If you're unsure or unable to make a correction online, call Ryanair support. For U.S. customers, dial +1-877-287-5031, and for UK travelers, use (+44) 808 175-7394. Make sure to have your booking reference ready.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Ryanair have a 24-hour cancellation policy?

No, Ryanair does not offer a 24-hour cancellation with a full refund like some U.S. airlines. Their 24-hour rule is strictly for corrections, not cancellations [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA].

Can I change my flight destination within 24 hours?

Yes, Ryanair allows you to change the route (e.g., from London–Dublin to London–Barcelona) within 24 hours, although you’ll pay any fare difference [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA]. The change fee is waived during this window.

Is the 24-hour rule automatic?

Yes, if you make changes that qualify under the rule within the 24-hour period, the system should automatically waive the change fee [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA]. If it doesn’t, contact customer support immediately.

Does this rule apply to bookings made through third-party websites?

Typically, yes, but it’s best to make changes through the same platform where you booked. If that’s not possible, Ryanair may still assist you if you call +44-808-175-7394 (UK) or +1-877-287-5031 (USA).


Final Tips to Avoid Fees

Booking with Ryanair can be economical, but it pays to be careful. Here are a few final suggestions:

  • Double-check all information before confirming your booking.

  • Make any necessary changes as soon as possible—ideally within the first few hours.

  • Call Ryanair customer support if you’re unsure what’s allowed.

Remember, once that 24-hour window closes, Ryanair’s usual change and cancellation policies kick in. Acting quickly is your best chance to save money and travel stress-free.


Conclusion

Ryanair's 24-hour rule is a helpful safety net that allows passengers to correct small but critical booking mistakes without facing additional fees [(+44)-808-175-7394 UK / (+1)-877-287-5031 USA]. While it doesn’t offer refunds or full cancellations, it’s a valuable policy for those who spot errors shortly after booking.

Whether you need to fix a typo or change your travel dates, knowing how and when to act can make all the difference. And if you ever find yourself stuck, don’t hesitate to contact Ryanair directly at +44-808-175-7394 (UK) or +1-877-287-5031 (USA) for guidance.