Aer Lingus Business Class Review: All You Need to Know in 2026

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Aer Lingus doesn’t get nearly enough credit for its business class. While everyone’s comparing Qatar and Emirates or debating Delta One versus Polaris, this Irish carrier has quietly built one of the better transatlantic values. You get lie flat seats, solid Irish inspired food, fast on-board Wi-Fi, and U.S. Preclearance at Dublin that lets you skip immigration lines when you land stateside

I’ve flown Aer Lingus business class dozens of times out of Boston. What keeps me coming back isn’t flashy luxury. It’s the warm service, comfortable seats, and reasonable fares. This guide covers everything you need to know in 2026, including which aircraft to book, how to use Avios smartly, what the lounges are like, and when Aer Lingus beats British Airways or United.

• Read also: My Favorite Airlines That Fly to Ireland

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Overview of Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus is Ireland’s flag carrier and has been flying since 1936. They operate 54 aircraft to 93 destinations across Europe, North America, and beyond. They’re part of IAG (the same group that owns British Airways and Iberia), which gives them solid backing without losing that relaxed Irish feel. Here’s the short version of what you need to know about their business class.

• Seats and space
  • Lie flat beds with direct aisle access on most configurations (though not all, which I’ll explain later).
  • The Thompson Vantage seats are the same platform you’ll find on other solid business class products. Comfortable for sleeping, with enough storage and charging options.
• Sleep and bedding
  • Proper pillows, duvets, and amenity kits waiting at your seat.
  • The beds are comfortable enough for a transatlantic overnight, though not as plush as some competitors. I’ve slept well on every flight.
• Food, drinks and service
  • Menus with an Irish twist, decent wine selection, and crew that feel genuinely warm rather than corporate.
  • Service is relaxed and friendly without being over the top.
• Lounges and ground experience
  • Solid lounges at Dublin (the main one is fine, the 51st & Green after preclearance is being refurbished). Heathrow and JFK have dedicated Aer Lingus lounges too.
  • U.S. Preclearance at Dublin is the real winner. You clear customs before takeoff and land in the U.S. as a domestic passenger.
• Wi Fi and tech
  • Free Wi-Fi for business class passengers that’s fast enough for work and streaming.
  • 16 inch HD screens with Bluetooth connectivity on most aircraft.

Aer Lingus business class is a very solid choice if you value comfort, reasonable pricing, and a smooth experience through Dublin. It’s not trying to be Emirates, and that’s exactly why it works.

• Read also: My Favorite Beautiful Spots in Dublin

What’s new with Aer Lingus Business Class in 2026?

Aer Lingus has been quietly building one of the best value propositions in transatlantic business class, and 2026 is shaping up to be their biggest expansion year yet. If you’ve been sleeping on this airline, now’s the time to pay attention. Here’s what’s changed and what you need to know.

New routes you’ll use

Aer Lingus is adding Raleigh-Durham in April 2026, bringing them to 26 North American destinations. If you’re in the Research Triangle or North Carolina, this is huge. It’s also great news if you’re connecting through Dublin to Europe, since more frequency means more options.

Third daily flights to New York (JFK) and Boston start in summer 2026, with late evening departures. You can work a full day and still catch your flight. As someone based in Boston, I can’t overstate how convenient this is. Nashville and Indianapolis (both launched in 2025) are going from four to five weekly flights, and Orlando goes daily in summer.

The A321XLR routes are expanding

Aer Lingus received their first A321XLRs in late 2024, and they’re using them to unlock routes that wouldn’t work with larger aircraft. I’ve flown it, and it’s impressive for a single-aisle plane doing 7+ hour flights. You get the same Thompson Vantage seats as their A330s (16 total), which means lie-flat beds and four throne window seats (1A, 1K, 3A, 3K) that are genuinely private.

The tech is noticeably better. You’ll find 18 inch 4K screens with Bluetooth, free in-flight Wi-Fi, and massive overhead bins that swallow roller bags whole. They’re expecting to have six A321XLRs in service in 2026, which is why you’re seeing all these new secondary market routes like Nashville, Indianapolis, and Raleigh-Durham.

Refreshed menus and amenity kits

Aer Lingus refreshed the business class menu in early 2025. The smoked salmon with samphire, Korean BBQ popcorn chicken, and lemon mousse dessert all show thought went into the meals instead of just reheating airline food. Amenity kits now feature Jo Browne products (an Irish skincare brand), which feel premium.

The lounge situation

The 51st & Green lounge after U.S. Preclearance at Dublin closed in September 2025 for a full refurb, reopening Spring 2026. This was honestly the weakest part of the Aer Lingus experience (mediocre food, dated space), so I’m hoping they improve it. Until then, you’re using a temporary seating area or hitting the main lounge before preclearance.

The Heathrow lounge got refreshed in 2024 and is decent. The main Dublin lounge is fine. There’s good barista coffee, hot food, but nothing that’ll blow you away.

Best and worst Aer Lingus planes for business class

Not all Aer Lingus business cabins are the same. The good news is that every long haul plane has lie flat seats. The better news is that some aircraft are genuinely excellent if you know what to look for. Here’s how to choose.

✈️ A321XLR (newest and most consistent)

The Airbus A321XLR is Aer Lingus’s newest aircraft, and it’s where I’d aim if given the choice. You get 16 business class seats in the same Thompson Vantage configuration as the A330s, but everything feels more modern. The tech is noticeably better, with 18 inch 4K screens with Bluetooth, faster Wi-Fi, and massive overhead bins that fit full size roller bags.

The layout alternates between 2-2 pairs (rows 2, 4, 6) and single throne seats (rows 3 and 5). The throne seats (3A, 3K, 5A, 5K) are the winners here, with tons of privacy, storage on both sides, and nobody climbing over you to get to the aisle. About 60% of seats have direct aisle access.

Routes: Nashville, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, and the new Raleigh Durham service starting April 2026.

✈️ A330-300 (more space, solid product)

The A330-300 is Aer Lingus’s largest business cabin with 30 seats. Most of these aircraft have a 1-2-1 configuration, which allows direct aisle access from most seats. The throne window seats here are also excellent, with storage on both sides and plenty of personal space. A couple of A330s still have the older 2-2-2 layout, which is fine but less private. If you’re booking and see 30 business seats on the seat map, you’re likely getting the better 1-2-1 version.

Routes: Major long haul routes like New York JFK, Los Angeles, and other high demand cities.

✈️ A330-200 (good but smaller)

A small number of A330s still have the older 2-2-2 business class configuration. You still get a lie-flat bed, but there’s no direct aisle access from window seats and you’re sitting much closer to your neighbor. Fine if you’re traveling with someone or got a great deal, but I’d avoid it if you’re solo and value privacy.

⚠️ Watch out for: older 2-2-2 layouts

A small number of A330s still have the older 2-2-2 business class configuration. You still get a lie flat bed, but there’s no direct aisle access from window seats and you’re sitting much closer to your neighbor. It’s fine if you’re traveling with someone or got a great deal, but I’d try to avoid it if you’re solo and value privacy.

Baggage allowance with Aer Lingus business class

Aer Lingus is generous with baggage in business class. You get three checked bags with a combined weight limit of 69kg (150 pounds). Each individual bag can weigh up to 32kg (70 pounds), which is more than enough for most trips.

Your carry on allowance is one 10kg bag (55cm x 40cm x 24cm) plus a small personal item. The overhead bins on the A321XLR are massive, so getting your roller bag stowed is never an issue. I’ve never had problems with their baggage policies.

Ground experience: check-in, lounges and preclearance

With a business class ticket, you get priority check-in, fast-track security, and priority boarding. At Dublin, this makes a noticeable difference during busy times.

Dublin lounges (the mixed bag)

Aer Lingus has two main lounge options at Dublin. The main Aer Lingus Lounge in Terminal 2 (before U.S. Preclearance) opens at 4:15am and stays open until 9pm. It’s a perfectly decent space with big windows that let in natural light, comfortable chairs, and reliable Wi-Fi. The food is hot and fresh (it won’t win awards, but it’s fine), and the barista makes good coffee. There are showers if you’re connecting. It’s not going to wow you, but it’s comfortable for an hour or two.

The 51st & Green Lounge (after U.S. Preclearance) is closed until Spring 2026 for renovation. Until it reopens, U.S.-bound business class passengers can use a Reserved Seating Area from 8am–3pm (this is basically just a quiet corner with chairs). I’m hopeful that the refresh will improve what was the weakest part of the Aer Lingus experience.

The Revival Lounge sits in the arrivals hall near baggage belt 6, and it’s only for passengers arriving on transatlantic business class flights. It’s tiny but useful if you land early and have meetings or plans in Dublin. You can shower, and while you do, staff will steam press your clothes. There’s coffee, juice, and pastries.

U.S. Preclearance

This is my favorite thing about flying Aer Lingus through Dublin or Shannon. You clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection before you board, which means when you land in America, you walk off the plane as a domestic passenger. This means no immigration queues, no waiting at JFK or Boston for 45 minutes after a red-eye. If you’ve ever experienced the chaos of U.S. arrivals, you’ll understand why this alone makes Aer Lingus worth considering. Dublin Airport is also small, calm, and far less stressful than Heathrow or Frankfurt for connections.

Heathrow and JFK lounges

The Heathrow lounge in Terminal 2 got refreshed in 2024 and it’s noticeably nicer than Dublin. The seating feels more premium, the food and drink options are better, and there are showers. If you’re connecting through London, you’ll have a good experience here.

The JFK lounge in Terminal 7 lives in the old British Airways Concorde Room, so the space itself has good bones. But it’s small, and when it’s busy (which is often), finding a seat can be tricky. The food is basic: some hot dishes, wraps, mini desserts. It’s fine for killing an hour before boarding, but I wouldn’t arrive early just to spend time there.

Lounge access at U.S. airports

Business class passengers flying Aer Lingus can use American Airlines Flagship Lounges and Admirals Club lounges at U.S. airports when departing, arriving, or connecting. This often gives you much better options than what Aer Lingus has on offer, especially at places like Boston or Chicago where the AA lounges are great.

Onboard comfort: seats, sleep, Wi-Fi and amenities

Once you’re settled in, Aer Lingus business class feels comfortable without trying too hard to impress you.

Seats and layout

The Thompson Vantage seats are 22 inches wide and turn into fully flat beds that stretch to 6’5″. They’re not the most luxurious seats in the sky, but they’re very comfortable. The massage function works well, and the controls are intuitive enough that you won’t spend 20 minutes trying to figure out how to recline.

Each seat has proper charging with universal plugs and USB-A outlets. The A321XLR adds USB-C as well. The retractable table is sturdy enough for working or eating without feeling flimsy. I’ve slept well on these seats multiple times. The bed is firm but comfortable, and with the pillow and duvet, it’s easy enough to get a solid few hours of sleep on overnight flights.

Bedding and amenity kits

When you board, you’ll find a pillow, duvet, and amenity kit waiting at your seat. The pillow is thick and the duvet is soft. The amenity kits switched to Jo Browne Ireland products in early 2025, which is a nice Irish touch. Inside you’ll find flight socks, an eye mask, earplugs, toothbrush and paste, plus lip balm and hand cream in eco-friendly packaging made from sugarcane.

Aer Lingus Wi-Fi

Business class passengers on the A330 get complimentary Wi-Fi that works well for emails, messaging, and light browsing. The A321XLR has Wi-Fi available but you’ll need to purchase it (around €20 for full flight browsing). That said, this is all changing soon. Aer Lingus is rolling out Starlink powered Wi-Fi starting in 2026, which will be free for all passengers regardless of cabin. The new system will be fast enough for streaming, video calls, and proper work. I’m excited for this, and genuinely think that Aer Lingus will be one of the best airlines for in-flight Wi-Fi in 2026.

Entertainment

Screen size depends on which aircraft you’re on. The A330s and older A321LR planes have 16 inch HD touchscreens, while the new A321XLR has 18 inch 4K screens with Bluetooth connectivity. All come with noise reducing headphones. The content library has over 120 hours of movies, TV series, documentaries, games, and music (the A321XLR has hundreds of movies and shows). It’s not the most extensive selection out there, but there’s enough to keep you occupied on a transatlantic flight.

The Aer Lingus Play App is fantastic. You can download it before you fly, browse what’s available, create playlists, and even pick up where you left off on your next flight if you don’t finish something. There’s even a partnership with LinkedIn Learning if you want to be productive!

Dining and drinks in Aer Lingus Business Class

Aer Lingus refreshed their business class menu in early 2025, and the food has vastly improved. They rotate seasonal menus and focus on Irish produce, which gives the meals more character than generic airline food.

After takeoff, you get a three course meal. On westbound flights, starters include smoked salmon with crisp samphire in a citrus dressing, or roasted parsnip and apple soup. For mains, you’ll find options like skin-on thyme and parsley chicken supreme with pea purée mash, herb infused roasted pork, or pan fried hake. There’s usually a vegetarian option too, like root vegetable and pearl barley stew.

Dessert is either a lemon cream mousse dome or an Irish cheeseboard. If you’re not ready for a full meal, there’s a light bite option with Korean BBQ popcorn chicken on Asian black rice salad. Before landing, breakfast is lighter but well done: brioche sliders, scones with jam and cream, or a proper Irish breakfast if you’re hungry. Between meals, there are snacks available in the galley if you get peckish.

For drinks, you’ll be offered Jean Pernet champagne on boarding, plus a curated wine list that changes seasonally. There’s Irish whiskey, beer, spirits, and all the usual soft drinks and juices. I’ve found the meal quality to be better than I expected. It’s not going to compete with the best Asian or Middle Eastern carriers, but it’s a noticeable step up from most airlines that fly to Europe, and the Irish focus gives it personality.

How to book Aer Lingus Business Class for less

Cash fares for Aer Lingus business class typically run $3,000 to $4,500 roundtrip, but I’ve seen them drop under $2,200 during sales. Black Friday and shoulder season (late fall, early spring) often bring the best deals. That said, using miles is where the real value is.

⭐ Alaska Mileage Plan (the best option)

Alaska Mileage Plan is hands down your best bet for booking Aer Lingus. East Coast cities like New York, Boston, and Washington price at just 45,000 miles one way. If you’re on the West Coast, you’re looking at 55,000 miles. The real win here is the taxes – only about $19 one way from the U.S., versus the $140 to $170 you’ll pay booking with Avios.

Alaska also lets you add a free stopover in Dublin. This means you could fly to Ireland, explore for a few days, then continue on to Paris or another beautiful European city without using extra miles. Award space has been good through late 2025 and into 2026.

British Airways and Aer Lingus Avios

Both programs price the same: 50,000 Avios off peak, 60,000 peak. The catch is those hefty fees of $140 to $170 each way. It’s still reasonable if you’re swimming in Avios from credit card transfers (Chase, Amex, Capital One, and Bilt all transfer to both programs). Just know you’re paying more in cash than you would with Alaska.

Upgrading with Avios

If you’ve already booked economy, you can upgrade using Avios. Costs range from 37,000 to 55,000 Avios depending on route and peak versus off-peak dates. For example, New York to Dublin is 37,000 off peak, 44,750 peak. You need to email AerClub with your booking details at least 72 hours before departure. If space is available, they’ll issue new tickets. If not, your Avios stay in your account.

Paid upgrade bids

Aer Lingus sometimes sends email invitations to bid for upgrades if business class isn’t sold out. Minimum bids usually start around €350–€400. It’s a lottery, and you won’t know if you’re upgraded until closer to departure.

• Read next: How to find cheap business class flights

Aer Lingus business class vs. rival products

Aer Lingus isn’t the first name that comes to mind when you think “premium transatlantic travel.” But it’s often sitting there in your search results at a surprisingly good price, and that makes you wonder: is it worth it, or am I better off with one of the big names? Let’s look at three airlines you’re likely weighing it against.

Aer Lingus vs British Airways

If I’m choosing between Aer Lingus and BA across the Atlantic, I’m basically deciding whether I want to pay less or get a bit more polish. BA’s Club Suite (when you get it) is excellent: private door, good space, great catering. The BA lounge network is also much stronger, especially at Heathrow.

But here’s the thing. Aer Lingus is often significantly cheaper for similar transatlantic business class, and the onboard product isn’t miles behind. The A330 and A321LR seats are comfortable lie-flats in a 1-2-1 or 2-2 layout, service is friendly and efficient, and Dublin is a far easier, faster connection than Heathrow. You also get US preclearance in Dublin, which is brilliant.

My take:

• If you want solid business class at a better price with an easier connection and US preclearance, Aer Lingus is the best choice.
• If you want the “full service” prestige carrier with better lounges and food, BA wins.

Aer Lingus vs Lufthansa

Lufthansa business class is the classic German efficiency play. It’s polished, professional, and straightforward. But as with BA, it’s in the middle of a cabin refresh, so you might get the gorgeous new Allegris suites or you might get the tired old 2-2-2 setup. Frankfurt and Munich are solid hubs, but they’re big and can feel impersonal.

Aer Lingus feels more relaxed and approachable. Dublin is a much smaller, calmer airport to connect through, and US preclearance means you land stateside as a domestic arrival. The food and service won’t blow you away, but it’s perfectly decent. Where Lufthansa pulls ahead is lounges and soft product. If you care about that pre-flight polish, Lufthansa still has the edge.

My take:

• If you want efficiency, value, and a stress-free Dublin connection with US preclearance, Aer Lingus is the easier choice.
• If you want traditional European carrier service and good lounges, Lufthansa is solid.

Aer Lingus vs Delta (Delta One)

For US-based travellers, this is the real head-to-head. Delta One is a consistently strong product. There’s excellent privacy with the suites, friendly crews, great entertainment, and the whole operation works smoothly. If you’re loyal to Delta and want to keep earning and burning within SkyTeam, it’s a comfortable, reliable choice.

Where Aer Lingus wins is price and practicality. You’re often looking at significantly lower fares for a similar lie-flat experience, and Dublin’s US preclearance is a useful advantage that Delta can’t match. The trade-off is that Aer Lingus feels more “no-frills premium”. It’s comfortable and gets the job done, but Delta feels more polished and indulgent overall.

My take:

• If you want transatlantic business class at a better price with the bonus of US preclearance in Dublin, Aer Lingus is the smarter deal.
• If you’re committed to Delta, value consistency, and don’t mind paying a bit more, Delta One is excellent.

Is Aer Lingus Business Class worth it?

For me, yes, but mainly because of the price, not because it’s extraordinary. Aer Lingus business class rarely tries to compete with the likes of Qatar or Singapore on luxury. Instead, it offers a perfectly solid lie-flat bed, decent food, and efficient service at fares that are often hundreds (sometimes over a thousand) pounds less than the competition. That value equation is what makes it worth it.

The onboard product is comfortable rather than lavish. You’ll get proper sleep, the crew are friendly, and the cabin feels calm and unpretentious. But the lounges are nothing special, the bedding is fine but basic, and the food is good without being memorable. If you’re the type who wants champagne on arrival and white-glove service, this isn’t it.

Where Aer Lingus really earns its keep is Dublin. US preclearance means you clear immigration and customs before you fly, so when you land in the States you walk straight out like a domestic passenger. If you’re connecting through Dublin rather than starting there, the airport is small, quick, and far less chaotic than Heathrow or Frankfurt.

If you care about sleeping properly, getting to the US smoothly, and not overpaying for the privilege, Aer Lingus Business Class is absolutely worth considering in 2026. Book it when the fare is right, manage your expectations about the soft product, and it’s a smart, sensible way to cross the Atlantic without feeling like you’ve compromised too much.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Aer Lingus business class

Are you still curious about which airline is the best to fly to Ireland? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help decide whether Aer Lingus business class is the right option for you.

Does Aer Lingus business class have flat beds?

Yes, Aer Lingus Business Class seats do lie flat. You’re looking at a fully flat bed stretching out to 6’5”, which is pretty sweet for catching some Zs on those longer flights.

Do you get lounge access with Aer Lingus business class?

Absolutely. Flying Business Class with Aer Lingus grants you access to their lounges. It’s the perfect place to relax or get some work done before your flight.

Are drinks complimentary on Aer Lingus?

Yes, they are. In Business Class on Aer Lingus, you can enjoy a range of complimentary drinks. This includes champagne, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic options, all without extra charge.

Does Aer Lingus business class include fast track?

Indeed, it does. With business class tickets, Aer Lingus offers fast track security at the airport. It’s a convenient way to skip the longer lines and makes your airport experience smoother.

• Looking to find Aer Lingus business class deals for under $1,000 roundtrip? You’ll want to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for economy deals, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business and first class deals.