bruppy, I don't ever remember flying as pax with bmibaby, sitting in the lounge and distinctly hearing the CSAs include in their announcement that pax should use a particular flight of steps, surely this could be incorporated into the boarding call? With regards to the Ryanair boarding procedure, I think it all depends on the handling agent as to how well it's dealt with. Open-seating will always be uncomfortable as you're anxious to get a good seat, but the CSA at the podium will make the difference as to how well-enforced the rules are.