We have a couple of low-cost airlines in England and Ireland, Easyjet and Ryanair. They are interesting because they optimise for low turn-around time and general cheapness. Optimisations include making the passengers walk to the aeroplane then up both sets of on-board steps to halve loading time, and putting quite a steep charge on all checked luggage. This all makes sense.
However, today, I came across a measure that makes very little sense indeed. Ryanair have added a surcharge for checking in online. So rather than go through their computerised process that (I should expect) costs virtually nothing to administer, I will be pestering the check-in staff in person today.
No matter. At least I'm going home today to see my family.
ryanair has a policy of "free sitting", which means you seat wherever you want and can. those who check-in online have the privilege of going first into the plane, so they can choose their seats more freely.