A non-binary passenger has sued Ryanair for £4,200 in damages after the airline's website failed to provide a gender-neutral title option during booking.
The customer was attempting to book a return flight from Berlin to Gran Canaria in October 2021 when they discovered they could only select from gendered options.
To the user's dismay, the website offered only Herr (Mr), Frau (Mrs) or Fräulein (Miss) titles.
It has remained unclear whether the passenger proceeded with the booking despite the lack of appropriate options.
Ryanair has been sued by a passenger
PA
After Ryanair refused to reach an out-of-court settlement, the complaint will now be heard by the Berlin state court, where the passenger is seeking financial compensation.
Additionally, the passenger wants the airline to update its booking platform to include gender-neutral title options for future customers.
GB News has approached Ryanair for comment.
In 2019, the International Air Transport Association released guidance for airlines wishing to offer non-binary gender options for passengers.
That same year, United Airlines became the first US carrier to provide customers with non-binary options when booking flights.
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Typical non-binary markers include 'X' for 'unspecified' or 'U' for 'undisclosed' instead of male or female, and the title Mx instead of Mr or Mrs.
Several major carriers have since followed suit, including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Delta and Air New Zealand.
However, some airlines like British Airways offer inclusive options but still do not permit customers to use the title 'Mx' in their booking systems.
Some airlines have also made changes to their uniform policies to be more inclusive.
British Airways relaxed its strict uniform policy to allow male pilots and crew to wear make-up and carry handbags
PA
For example, Virgin Atlantic now allows its staff to choose their own uniforms, including trousers or skirts.
In 2022, British Airways relaxed its strict uniform policy to allow male pilots and crew to wear make-up and carry handbags.
Traditional onboard greetings are changing too, with some carriers moving away from "ladies and gentlemen".
A spokesman for Lufthansa said the airline now uses phrases like "dear guests" or simply "welcome on board", which is intended to make all passengers feel welcome - including those who do not identify as male or female.
