I keep hearing stories about passengers being split from their groups.

I vowed never to use Ryanair about seven years ago when I heard horror stories about luggage fees, boarding pass charges, etc etc.

It seems to be inexperienced flyers that get caught out and make the biggest complaints.

The new "trick" being reported is about partners and friends being split because they have not paid for seat selection. Maybe it's a revenue generating trick (probably) but when you pay the same for a Ryanair flight as what it costs to go out for dinner in a reasonable restaurant, do people have a valid argument?

I used to fly BA for all European trips but now the standard seem to be the same with low cost carriers (or better in price) I stick with Ryanair.

First week in August I need to head to Hamburg from London. Today's price is £45 return. Will I complain about being seated apart from two colleagues? Or will I pay the £15 total charges for priority boarding (guaranteeing my bag on board), seat allocation and a cappuccino for a 90 min flight? Of course I will! Still FAR cheaper than BA! That's cheaper than my airport parking!

The departure and arrival at London Stansted is another discussion for another thread. What a farce.