Ryanair is due to launch it's new paid frequent flyer scheme, Ryanair Choice, by the end of the summer. Simple Flying decided to analyse Ryanair Choice vs easyJet Plus.

Ryanair announced its new paid benefits scheme in mid-February. However, beyond this, the details are fairly sketchy. easyJet is also poised to launch a new frequent flyer offering this year, but again, details are vague. For the purpose of this article, we will put what we know about Ryanair Choice, against the existing easyJet Plus offering.

Price

Let us start with arguably the most important factor in the two schemes; cost. easyJet plus costs either £215 or €239. Given the current exchange rate, the difference is negligible. Meanwhile, Ryanair's Choice offering has a fixed price of £199 or €199 according to a February press release. While cheaper than easyJet Plus, passengers paying in euros are at a distinct advantage cost-wise.

Seat selection

According to the Independent, Ryanair Choice customers will be able to select a seat for free. However, this will only extend as far as the standard seats in the aircraft. This does not include the extra legroom seats or the first few rows of the cabin.

By contrast, easyJet Plus customers are able to "select any seat on the plane free of charge" as long as they are not already taken.

Dedicated bag drop

easyJet Plus members are able to use a dedicated bag drop area at their airport of departure. While this makes little difference at huge hubs like Gatwick where there are ample bag drop facilities, it could make all the difference at small airports such as Gibraltar.

However, it appears that Ryanair Choice customers will not be eligible for this benefit, and will have to queue at the check-in desk along with everybody else.

Fast track security and priority boarding

Both easyJet Plus members and Ryanair Choice members will be able to use Fast Track security where it's available. The only real difference here appears to be the airports on offer, as the airlines' routes differ slightly. Additionally, both airlines' members will be able to partake in priority boarding at the gate. However, they will be queued with everybody else who has purchased the benefit.

Extra baggage

While both schemes will let members take an additional bag on board, the allowance varies slightly. With Ryanair Choice, passengers will be able to take a 10kg cabin-suitcase-sized bag with them onboard the aircraft. This is in addition to a small under seat bag.

By contrast, easyJet plus passengers have no weight restriction on their cabin bag. They are also able to take a small under-seat bag with them when using plus.

Additional benefits

Finally, easyJet Plus members are able to take an earlier return flight to their origin if there is space on the flight for free. As far as we can tell, Ryanair will not offer this benefit. easyJet will also give Plus members the difference if they find their flight cheaper than when they booked. However, Ryanair will give Choice members a 24 hour advance notice of four seat sales per year.

The verdict

From looking at both programs, it is clear that the easyJet plus offering gives better benefits. This is, however, reflected in the increased cost. However, the easyJet offering does seem better value for money than Ryanair's Choice.

With that said, it entirely depends on how you travel as to which program is best. If you flew on easyJet twice a year, and Ryanair ten times a year, then clearly the latter would be better for you.

What do you think? Which program wins the Ryanair Choice vs easyJet Plus battle? Let us know in the comments!