With winter conditions continuing across Ireland, many travellers are already thinking about warmer destinations. However, the low-cost airline has warned that an often-ignored rule can cause confusion at the boarding gate, even for experienced passengers.

Although most passengers are well aware of restrictions on baggage size, liquids and security procedures, certain airline-specific policies remain less well known. One such rule concerns hot drinks purchased after passing through airport security, an item many travellers often take on flights.

Especially for early-morning departures, a coffee or other hot drink is often considered essential for the journey. Ryanair, however, does not allow passengers to board with hot liquids, citing safety risks during boarding.

The airline’s policy is in place to prevent potential accidents in confined spaces, according to a Ryanair spokesperson. This airline explained that hot drinks are prohibited during boarding, along with the consumption of alcohol by passengers themselves, in order to reduce the risk of injury.

This is mainly because of the possibility of spills in the narrow, busy aisles of aeroplanes, where hot liquids can cause burns to passengers or crew members.

Ryanair’s approach is not unique, as Aer Lingus also applies a similar restriction, advising customers not to bring hot drinks for consumption on board as a precautionary measure. The airline has previously clarified this policy in response to passenger queries on social media.

Passengers can still purchase hot drinks once the aircraft is in the air, while cold drinks and snacks can be brought on board as long as they comply with standard airport security rules.

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