To save anyone missing their flight and then starting a thread here to complain about the new policy, please read and understand Ryanair's updated policy at STN.
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New Check-In Procedure At London Stansted from January 15
RYANAIR check-in at Stansted Airport will now close 40 minutes before the scheduled time of departure. Check-in at all other airports closes 30 minutes before the scheduled time of departure.
We reserve the right to cancel your reservation and to deny you boarding without refund if you do not comply with the Check-in deadline.
Ryanair operate a priority boarding system, which allows you to choose your own seat once you are on board the aircraft (subject to certain exceptions). When you check in you will be given a numbered boarding card, so the earlier you check in, the earlier you will be allowed to board.
This new check-in deadline for London Stansted will come into operation from 15th January 2003.
Source: Ryanair's Website
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Some of these have are already in force, some will start on the 15th. Continue to fly Ryanair, just make sure you arrive at the airport in planty of time. Don't forget your passport, even if flying domestic or to Ireland, as these flights still require positive ID.