Seatbelt fastened, hand luggage stowed, tray table up and the captain’s familiar muffled announcement playing overhead. Then comes the safety briefing, and now, if you’re flying with Ryanair, this section will be over a little quicker than what you’re used to
What has Ryanair changed?
Ryanair has introduced a shorter version of its pre-flight safety briefing, with the airline’s updated recording reportedly around 40 seconds faster than the version used previously. The change has attracted attention after some Ryanair cabin crew reportedly said they are finding it difficult to keep pace with the new recording while carrying out the accompanying safety demonstration.
The previous English-language safety demonstration used in 2025 lasted around three minutes and 25 seconds. The new version is reported to be nearly 40 seconds shorter. As many will know, Ryanair’s safety demonstration is carried out by cabin crew, who physically show passengers procedures including how to fasten and release a seat belt, use an oxygen mask and use a life jacket.
According to reports, the change followed feedback from cabin crew who had considered the previous announcement too slow. Some crew members have now said that the revised version has made the routine more difficult to perform in time with the recording. Some cabin crew have described the new timing as difficult to follow when moving between the different demonstration steps. One crew member described the movements as being like “spinning like ballerinas”, while another commented that there was not enough time to pick up the next demonstration kit.
Will the change affect passengers?
For passengers, the main difference is purely the faster pace of the safety demonstration and no actual content has been amended on what you need to know on board or if an emergency occurs. The usual advice remains the same as always, pay attention to the safety demonstration before take-off, even if you regularly fly with Ryanair. Passengers should take note of the location of their nearest emergency exit and listen to the instructions given by the cabin crew.
The latest change is primarily about how quickly the safety briefing is delivered, rather than a new procedure for passengers.
Are you an avid listener of the briefing? Or a headphones in and straight into your downloaded series traveller? Either way, Ryanair will be explaining what to do, even if it is like a spinning ballerina in a life jacket.
