The boarding rule can catch people out at the gate

Cork Airport (Image: Cork Airport )

January is one of the busiest months for booking trips abroad, but many holidaymakers may not be aware of one very common airport purchase that they may not be permitted to bring onboard the plane. Ryanair and Aer Lingus has reminded passengers to ditch their drinks before boarding

The airlines both have a small but often overlooked rule that could catch people off guard, especially just before getting on the plane. Most flyers are familiar with the standard travel dos and don’ts like baggage allowances and security rules – but some airline policies can surprise even the most seasoned travellers.

For example, Ryanair passengers are warned to finish their coffees before heading to the gate, as hot drinks are not allowed during boarding due to safety concerns. The Irish Mirror reports that travellers are often asked to dump or finish their takeaways teas and coffees before boarding.

READ MORE: Third Ryanair route axed at Cork AirportREAD MORE: All the changes as Ryanair and Aer Lingus shake up hand luggage rules for 2026

Aer Lingus has a similar restriction. When a customer asked on social media why takeaway coffee wasn’t allowed, an airline representative explained: “We ask people not to bring hot drinks onboard when boarding as a safety precaution. Apologies for any disappointment.”

Airlines have the strict rule in place to avoid any spills or burns during the boarding process. A spokesperson for Ryanair said: “In the interest of safety we cannot allow passengers to board the plane with hot drinks or consume their own alcohol during the flight.”

Alcohol purchased in duty free must remain unopened during a Ryanair flight and drinking your own alcohol is not allowed. Passengers can still purchase hot drinks once in the air. Cold drinks and snacks are also allowed, as long as they follow airport security regulations.

If you do fancy a coffee while waiting for your flight – especially on early morning routes – Cork Airport has a range of food and drink spots to check out. Last summer, the CRAFT restaurant and cocktail bar opened after a major revamp as is one of the most popular spots in the airport, meanwhile the Roasted Notes cafe and wine bar serves coffee from 4am.

While Cork Airport celebrated its busiest year ever in 2025, with big ambitions for 2026, there was some less welcome news for travellers as airline dropped routes from Munster’s favourite airport. Ryanair is calling time on its routes to Poznan, Gdank and Rome in the coming months while Aer Lingus axes its flight to the Croatian hotspot of Dubrovnik after six years. However both airlines have also added destinations to their schedules which they hope will prove very popular with passengers.