Ryanair has introduced new baggage drop-off and airport check-in deadlines across its European network, including Pisa International Airport in Tuscany. Starting Tuesday, 10 November 2026, passengers must complete these procedures at least 60 minutes before their scheduled departure, 20 minutes earlier than previously required.
The change affects travellers with checked luggage, including passengers who purchase Ryanair’s 10 kg checked baggage option. According to the airline, approximately one in five passengers will be affected by the new rule.
Pisa is an important departure point for people travelling to and from Florence, which does not have Ryanair services at its own airport. The new deadline is therefore relevant to both residents of Tuscany and international visitors using Pisa to reach the region.
What changes for passengers?
Until 9 November, Ryanair passengers could leave their checked luggage at the airport up to 40 minutes before departure. Under the new rules, baggage drop-off counters close 60 minutes before the scheduled flight time.
For example, a passenger booked on a flight departing at 7.10 a.m. must complete baggage drop-off by 6.10 a.m. Arriving at the counter just five minutes later could mean being unable to check in the suitcase.
The deadline applies to all checked baggage categories offered by Ryanair, including 10 kg, 20 kg and 23 kg suitcases.
Passengers should pay particular attention to the 10 kg checked baggage option. Although these suitcases are similar in size to cabin luggage, they must be handed over at the airport before security checks and are therefore subject to the new deadline.
Travellers carrying only a small personal bag or a cabin suitcase included with Priority boarding can continue directly to security, provided they have already completed online check-in and have a valid boarding pass.
Online check-in and boarding times remain unchanged
The airline has not changed its other main deadlines.
Online check-in still closes two hours before departure, while boarding gates close 30 minutes before the scheduled flight time.
Passengers who need to complete check-in at the airport must also respect the new 60-minute deadline. Airport check-in may involve an additional fee, depending on the passenger’s circumstances and booking conditions.
Ryanair recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before departure, particularly for travellers with checked luggage.
The new arrangements also reduce the time available for baggage drop-off. Ryanair says its counters open no later than two hours before departure, meaning passengers now have a window of approximately 60 minutes to hand over their luggage, compared with 80 minutes previously.
Why is Ryanair introducing the new deadline?
Ryanair says the change is intended to give passengers more time to complete airport security and passport controls, reducing the risk of missed flights.
The decision comes amid changes to border procedures at European airports following the introduction of the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES).
The system, which began operating progressively in October 2025, registers the entry and exit of non-EU nationals travelling across the external borders of the Schengen area. It uses biometric information and replaces traditional passport stamping for travellers covered by the system.
The new procedures have contributed to longer waiting times at some European border checkpoints.
For passengers departing from Pisa, passport controls are particularly relevant on flights to destinations outside the Schengen area, such as the United Kingdom, Albania and Morocco.
Domestic flights and journeys between countries within the Schengen area do not normally require these border checks.
The earlier baggage deadline also gives airport staff more time to process and load luggage before departure.
What happens if passengers miss the deadline?
Ryanair’s baggage drop-off and check-in deadlines are strict. Passengers arriving after the counters have closed may be unable to check in their luggage, even if the aircraft has not yet started boarding.
Depending on the circumstances, travellers may have to leave their checked baggage behind or arrange another flight, potentially at additional cost.
Passengers who fail to complete the required check-in procedures on time may also be refused boarding.
Under European air passenger rights rules, eligibility for certain forms of compensation depends on passengers presenting themselves for check-in within the deadline specified by the airline. Missing that deadline can therefore affect their rights.
What travellers from Florence and Tuscany should know
The new rule is particularly relevant to passengers travelling from Florence to Pisa International Airport, which is approximately 80 kilometres west of Florence.
Travellers using public transport can reach Pisa Centrale railway station from Florence and then take the PisaMover shuttle to the airport terminal.
Anyone planning to check in luggage should allow enough time for the journey, possible transport delays and queues at the baggage drop-off counters.
The airline’s recommendation is to arrive at least two hours before departure. Additional time may be advisable during busy travel periods or when flying to destinations outside the Schengen area.
Passengers should also complete online check-in in advance, check their baggage allowance and ensure that their boarding pass is available before reaching the airport.
For travellers flying from Pisa with Ryanair, the main point to remember is that 60 minutes before departure is the deadline for completing baggage drop-off, not the recommended time to arrive at the airport.
❤️ Support Florence Daily News
If you liked this article, please consider supporting Florence Daily News.
We are an independent news site, free from paywalls and intrusive ads, committed to providing clear and reliable reporting on Florence and Tuscany for everyone.
Your support — whether a one-time gift or a regular contribution — helps us stay independent and keep telling the stories that matter.
Donate securely via Stripe below.
Make a one-time donation
Make a monthly donation
Make a yearly donation
Choose an amount
Or enter a custom amount
Your contribution is appreciated.
Your contribution is appreciated.
Your contribution is appreciated.