DUBLIN—Aer Lingus has rolled out a revised boarding process for its flights departing from and arriving in Ireland this summer, aimed at streamlining the boarding experience for passengers.
The airline operates from Dublin, Cork, Shannon, and Ireland West Knock airports and has introduced a structured boarding system that divides passengers into designated groups.
A new approach applies to both European and transatlantic routes and is designed to make the boarding process more efficient and user-friendly.
For short-haul European services, boarding typically begins 30 to 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as indicated on passengers’ boarding passes.
The process begins with pre-boarding for customers requiring special assistance.
Following that, passengers in Priority Boarding—Group 1 will be called. This group includes AerClub Silver, Platinum, and Concierge members; AerSpace ticket holders; and customers connecting to business class.
Next, General Boarding—Group 2 will be invited to board. The group comprises passengers entitled to bring a 10kg carry-on bag, which will be marked on their boarding passes with the words “Carry-on bag.”
The final boarding group for European flights is General Boarding—Group 3, which includes all remaining passengers.
Aer Lingus advises all customers to arrive at the gate no later than the time specified on their boarding pass to avoid delays or missed flights.
For transatlantic flights to or from Dublin and Shannon airports, boarding starts slightly earlier, typically between 40 and 50 minutes before departure. The boarding order also differs slightly for these long-haul routes.
Passengers needing special assistance are first to board, followed by Priority Boarding—Group 1, which includes business class customers. Then, General Boarding—Group 2 will board, consisting of AerClub Silver, Platinum, and Concierge members.
General Boarding—Group 3 includes economy class passengers and those seated in the rear of the aircraft.
All other travellers will board as General Boarding—Group 4.
Aer Lingus has issued several tips to help passengers avoid delays and extra charges. Travellers are advised to monitor airport screens and the Aer Lingus app for the latest gate updates.
It’s important to allow enough time to reach the gate, taking into account any necessary transfers or security checks.
Passengers are also reminded to remain seated at the gate until their designated boarding group is called and to only join the boarding lane when instructed.
Each traveller should have their boarding pass and a valid ID ready for inspection.
Those carrying a 10kg bag without the appropriate booking entitlement may be subject to a €35/£35 charge at the gate.
To avoid this fee, Aer Lingus recommends checking such bags in at the airport free of charge.
In cases where overhead locker space is limited, some carry-on bags may need to be placed in the aircraft’s hold at no extra cost. These bags can be retrieved at baggage claim upon arrival.
When aircraft are parked remotely from the terminal building, passengers will be transported from the gate to the plane by shuttle bus.
