Low-cost airline Ryanair has introduced a new annual subscription service called ‘Prime.’ For €79 a year, frequent travelers can access exclusive perks that the airline claims are worth up to five times the subscription fee. While passengers may enjoy significant savings, critics argue that the initiative could encourage more flights—leading to increased carbon emissions.
Savings for Frequent Flyers
The ‘Prime’ membership offers several benefits, including free reserved seating, complimentary travel insurance, and access to 12 exclusive monthly seat sales.
According to Ryanair, travelers who fly 12 times per year could save up to €420. Even those flying just three times annually might save around €105—exceeding the cost of the subscription itself.
Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, called the service a “no-brainer” for frequent flyers looking to save on travel costs. He emphasized that ‘Prime’ aligns with Ryanair’s commitment to offering low fares and maximizing customer value.
The program is initially limited to 250,000 members and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested travelers can sign up via Ryanair’s official website.
Ryanair is not the first budget airline to adopt a subscription-based model. Hungarian carrier Wizz Air introduced an “all-you-can-fly” plan last year, priced at €499 annually.
Environmental Concerns Over Frequent Flying
While subscription services provide financial benefits for travelers, environmental groups caution that such offers could lead to an increase in flights, worsening aviation-related emissions.
Hannah Lawrence from the organization Stay Grounded previously criticized Wizz Air’s subscription model, describing it as “like adding wood to a burning fire” amid the escalating climate crisis.
She argued that these programs demonstrate the airline industry’s reluctance to take meaningful steps toward reducing emissions. Those who do not fly, she added, would ultimately bear the consequences of increased air pollution and environmental damage.
Stay Grounded advocates for urgent policy changes, including a ban on frequent flyer incentives and a levy on repeat travelers. The group also calls for greater investment in sustainable transport alternatives, such as high-speed rail networks.
Balancing Travel with Sustainability
The European Environment Agency (EEA) has also expressed concern over the environmental impact of unlimited flying plans. The EU has set a target to cut transport-related emissions by 14.3% by 2030, but experts warn that widespread adoption of frequent flyer programs could hinder this progress.
An EEA spokesperson emphasized the need to manage travel demand responsibly. They urged travelers to consider lower-emission alternatives such as trains, buses, or cycling whenever possible. Additionally, choosing eco-conscious destinations and accommodations can help reduce tourism’s carbon footprint.
While Ryanair’s ‘Prime’ membership may offer financial advantages to frequent travelers, its potential impact on the environment raises critical questions. As climate concerns mount, airlines and travelers alike face increasing pressure to weigh the true cost of low-cost air travel.