Ryanair, Europe's largest airline, announced on June 25, 2026, that its family seating policy now fully complies with industry standards. The update, effective immediately, offers families with children under 12 free adjacent seats in the rear of the aircraft, while still allowing them to choose preferred seats for a fee.
The policy change follows a review by the Irish Aviation Authority, which confirmed that Ryanair's previous practice of charging for seat selection did not violate EU regulations. However, the airline opted to align with competitors like easyJet and Wizz Air, which provide free family seating.
Ryanair's new policy ensures that families booking together will be seated together at no extra cost, provided they select seats in the rear rows. The airline emphasizes that this option is available on all flights, and families can still purchase preferred seats if desired.
This move is part of a broader industry trend to accommodate families, as airlines face pressure from consumer groups and regulators. Ryanair's policy now mirrors that of other low-cost carriers, offering flexibility while maintaining operational efficiency.
