10 Best Airlines for Smooth & Budget-Friendly Flights to Ireland

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Landing in Dublin never gets old. That moment when the endless green patchwork of Irish countryside appears below the clouds still gives me goosebumps, even after half a dozen trips across the Atlantic. I’ve learned the hard way that choosing the right airline can make the difference between starting your Irish adventure refreshed or feeling like you’ve already downed too many pints at Temple Bar. Take it from someone who once spent 14 hours in London Heathrow during a budget airline mishap.

If you’re planning to explore some of the best places in Ireland, you’ll want to arrive ready for action. I analyzed over 100 popular flight routes to Ireland from around the world, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. Here are the airlines I trust most to get you across the pond without emptying your wallet in 2025.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Ireland

Looking for the cheapest flights to Ireland? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

Here’s the deal: Sign up for free email alerts, set your departure and destination, and boom – you’ll get alerts for insanely cheap flights. Mistake fares? Deep discounts? They’ve got it all.

I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $337 roundtrip fare from Boston to Dublin during the spring. Not bad!

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays the whole thing. And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll definitely want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $5,000 in 2024 alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

Now, let’s discuss the best way to fly to Ireland in 2025.

Best Airlines for Affordable & Hassle-Free Flights to Ireland

Looking for the best airlines for affordable & hassle-free flights to Ireland? Fly with Aer Lingus for a seamless Irish travel experience, enjoy premium service with British Airways, save big with budget-friendly Ryanair, or opt for luxury and long-haul comfort with Etihad Airways. Whether you’re after affordability, convenience, or top-tier service, these airlines offer great options for your trip to Ireland.

1. 🇮🇪 Aer Lingus

• 🏠 Hub: Dublin (DUB), Cork (ORK), Shannon (SNN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AerClub – earn Avios points
• ☕ Perks: Irish hospitality, direct transatlantic routes, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Booking the Saver fare gets you a carry-on and personal item at a lower price.

Aer Lingus is one of the most reliable and affordable ways to get to Ireland, and not just because they’re the national airline. With direct flights from cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and even Hartford, they skip the usual European layovers and often undercut the big carriers by hundreds of dollars.

Flying with them feels like a warm Irish welcome before you even land. The crews are genuinely friendly without trying too hard, the cabins are clean and comfortable, and even Economy includes meals that are actually decent. The airline’s Airbus A330s come with seatback screens, solid entertainment (including Irish films and music), and surprisingly good coffee for a budget fare. And if you want a little more comfort, Premium Economy gives you wider seats, upgraded meals, and extra baggage without the huge jump in price.

What makes Aer Lingus brilliant for budget travelers is their transparent pricing structure. Their “Saver” fares strip out the extras you might not need, letting you customize your experience. Want to check a bag? Add it for a reasonable fee. Need to pick your seat? Pay a small upcharge. It’s refreshingly honest compared to airlines that advertise low fares then hit you with surprise fees at every turn.

For those who fly frequently, AerClub earns you Avios points with every flight, which you can redeem for free flights, seat upgrades, or extra baggage allowance on future trips. The best part? Avios points also work with British Airways and other partner airlines.

• Read next: Cheapest Airports to Fly into Ireland

2. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club – Avios points, oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea service, excellent lounges, extensive European connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Avios points for short London-Dublin flights. Redemptions are often at 4,500 points each way plus minimal taxes.

British Airways doesn’t fly nonstop from the U.S. to Ireland, but they make it incredibly easy to add Ireland to any UK trip. With dozens of daily flights from London to Dublin, Cork, and Shannon, you can book everything on one itinerary and breeze through the connection. Most U.S. cities are well-covered in BA’s network, and Heathrow handles the handoff pretty seamlessly.

Flying BA feels properly British without being stuffy about it. You’ll get actual tea service on even short flights, and snacks that don’t taste like they’ve been sitting in a warehouse since 2019. The London-Dublin flight takes about an hour, so you’re barely airborne before you’re back on the ground in Ireland with your pint of Guinness waiting.

Here’s where BA gets smart: they fly to Ireland constantly throughout the day, giving you flexibility to explore London between flights or catch earlier connections if things go smoothly. Their Heathrow lounges are genuinely nice places to spend layover time, with proper English breakfast, decent coffee, and shower facilities if you need to freshen up after crossing the Atlantic.

The Avios program turns these short Ireland flights into incredible bargains. We’re talking 4,500 points plus about $25 in fees for a London-Dublin flight that might cost $150 in cash. You can rack up Avios through their credit cards or transfer points from Chase and Amex, making those “free” Ireland connections totally achievable.

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Chicago

3. 🇮🇪 Ryanair

• 🏠 Hub: Dublin (DUB), London Stansted (STN), Barcelona (BCN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Standard, Plus (priority boarding and extras)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None – just rock-bottom fares
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low fares, extensive European network, efficient operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Pay for Priority Boarding ($15-20) to guarantee your carry-on stays with you. Non-priority passengers often have bags gate-checked when overhead bins fill up.

Ryanair has turned getting to Ireland into something almost absurdly cheap. They’re Europe’s biggest budget airline and the go-to for no-frills flying. If you pair a low-cost transatlantic flight into London, Barcelona, or another European city with a Ryanair hop to Dublin, Cork, or Shannon, your total airfare might be less than what most people spend on airport snacks.

The Ryanair experience is exactly what you’d expect from an airline that measures success in cents per mile. Bright yellow cabin interiors, seats that don’t recline (which is actually a blessing when someone can’t invade your space), and crew members who’ve mastered the art of being efficient without wasting time on small talk. No free food, no assigned seats unless you pay extra, and definitely no coddling. But honestly, for a 2-hour flight to Dublin, who cares?

What Ryanair does brilliantly is operations. These folks have turned quick turnarounds into an art form, consistently departing on time even during Europe’s busy summer travel season. Their mobile app works surprisingly well, boarding passes scan on the first try, and they’ve eliminated most of the traditional airline hassles by simply not offering traditional airline services. Want something? You can buy it. Don’t want it? Don’t pay for it.

The secret is knowing how to play their game. Book Priority Boarding, check in as early as allowed, and pack light to skip baggage fees. Stick to the rules and you’ll be sipping a pint in Dublin for less than most people pay for their Uber to the airport.

• Read next: Cheap Flights from London

4. 🇦🇪 Etihad Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Space, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Etihad Guest
• ☕ Perks: Arabian hospitality, modern fleet, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Upgrade to Economy Space for around $50 to $80. You’ll get more legroom and priority boarding, which makes a big difference on long-haul flights before your Ireland connection.

Etihad Airways might seem like an unusual choice for Ireland, but hear me out. This Abu Dhabi-based airline offers surprisingly competitive fares to European cities like London, Manchester, and Amsterdam, where you can easily connect to Dublin. Their modern Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s make the long Middle East routing more comfortable than you’d expect, and you often save serious money compared to direct European carriers.

Flying Etihad feels like experiencing Arabian hospitality at 35,000 feet. The crew genuinely seems pleased to help, the planes are spotless with modern entertainment systems, and even Economy passengers get decent meals with complimentary wine. 

The Abu Dhabi connection works smoother than you’d imagine. Their hub is modern, efficient, and sized for humans rather than the overwhelming chaos of places like Dubai or Doha. Immigration and security move quickly, there are plenty of food options during layovers, and the airport design makes finding your connecting gate straightforward rather than requiring a GPS and hiking boots.

What makes Etihad smart for budget-conscious Ireland travelers is their competitive pricing, especially during shoulder seasons. You’ll often find fares $200-400 less than direct European options, and their generous baggage allowances like two free checked bags. Meanwhile, Etihad Guest program offers decent perks, and their frequent sales can make Middle East routing to Europe surprisingly affordable. Just factor in the extra travel time and jet lag from the eastbound routing.

• Read next: Business Class vs. Economy

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $350 roundtrip fare from Boston to Dublin with Aer Lingus. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

5. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), New York (JFK), Boston (BOS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – points never expire
• ☕ Perks: Industry-leading reliability, premium snacks, Sky Club access
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the Atlanta to Dublin route during peak summer travel. It often has better availability and pricing than the more crowded East Coast gateways.

Delta brings American reliability to Ireland travel with their seasonal Atlanta-Dublin service that’s become a favorite among southeastern travelers. While most people think of Boston or New York for Ireland flights, Delta’s Atlanta hub opens up the Emerald Isle for folks from cities like Birmingham, Nashville, and New Orleans without the hassle of connecting through crowded northeastern airports.

The onboard experience is polished, especially for a U.S. carrier. Main Cabin includes solid inflight entertainment, USB ports, and coffee from Starbucks instead of mystery brew. Comfort+ gives you extra legroom for the transatlantic leg, and Premium Select steps it up with wider seats, upgraded meals, and a more relaxed experience for a reasonable price.

Where Delta really shines is consistency. Their Dublin flights tend to leave on time, arrive on time, and recover quickly when summer storms roll through Atlanta. You won’t always notice it, but their behind-the-scenes weather tracking and rerouting make a big difference when other airlines are scrambling.

When it comes to their loyalty program, Delta’s SkyMiles never expire, which is perfect for occasional Ireland travelers who might not fly frequently enough to maintain elite status elsewhere. Their Sky Clubs provide civilized refuges during layovers, and the Delta credit cards offer solid value with free checked bags and priority boarding. 

6. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards
• ☕ Perks: Exceptional service, generous baggage allowance, extensive entertainment
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Take advantage of Emirates’ free stopover program to explore Dubai for up to 96 hours without paying extra airfare. It’s an easy way to turn your Ireland trip into a two-country adventure.

Flying Emirates to Ireland through Dubai might sound like a detour, but for travelers who care about comfort and price, it’s a pretty great trade-off. Their connections from major U.S. cities like New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco to Dublin often cost less than flying direct with European carriers, and the experience feels more like a getaway than just a long-haul flight.

Even in Economy, the experience feels elevated. You get over 4,000 entertainment options, complimentary wine and spirits, and meals that don’t taste like an afterthought. Premium Economy offers more space, upgraded dining, and priority perks for a fraction of what you’d pay in Business. The two free checked bags (50 lbs each) are a nice bonus if you’re packing for Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

Dubai International Airport is sleek, efficient, and always open. Layovers feel like a chance to explore rather than something to endure. If you’ve got a long stop, Emirates’ stopover program makes it easy to spend up to four days in Dubai with hotel options and even city tours included. It’s a great way to mix desert skylines with Irish greenery in one itinerary.

The Skywards program delivers good value, especially during their frequent fare sales. If you’re looking for a way to stretch your travel budget without cutting corners on comfort, Emirates makes the long haul feel like part of the vacation instead of just a way to get from point A to point B.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Dublin

7. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Hamad International Airport (DOH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Qsuite), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Award-winning service, spacious economy seating, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the Business Lite fare to save 20-30% off the full business class price. You’ll still get the Qsuite experience, and you can add lounge access later if needed.

Qatar Airways keeps raising the bar for long-haul travel, and their US to Ireland routes through Doha prove why they stay near the top of global rankings. Yes, it’s a longer journey, but the service, comfort, and price often make it worth the extra flight time. With connections from cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas, getting to Dublin is easier than you might expect.

Flying Qatar feels like discovering what airlines used to be before they forgot about passenger comfort. In Economy, you’ll enjoy decent legroom, excellent meals with complimentary beverages, personal entertainment screens loaded with hundreds of options, and cabin crew who seem genuinely pleased to help rather than just tolerating passengers. And if you go for Qsuite, you’re in for one of the best business class products out there.

Hamad International Airport in Doha is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. Art installations, high-end shops, and relaxed lounges give the layover real value instead of just being something to get through. The airline also includes two free checked bags in Economy, which gives you room to pack for Ireland’s mix of coastlines, countryside, and cities.

Privilege Club works well for occasional and frequent travelers alike. They run regular Qmiles bonuses and have good transfer options from Citi and other partners. Add in one of their Dubai-style stopover packages (with hotel stays and tours included) and you’ve got the chance to turn a trip to Ireland into something much bigger without spending more on airfare.

8. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Amsterdam (AMS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue – SkyTeam alliance member
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine and wine, stylish cabin design, extensive European connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Plan your US–Dublin trip with a connection in Paris. Air France’s short European flights still include complimentary meals and drinks, and a longer layover gives you the perfect excuse to explore the city.

Air France adds a layer of European style to your Ireland trip with easy connections through Paris Charles de Gaulle. Flights from cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles link up smoothly with frequent service to Dublin, making it a great choice for travelers who want to visit both France and Ireland in one go.

Even short flights feel special. They serve wine, real meals, and the cabins have a modern French design that makes the whole experience feel more thoughtful. The crew is polished and friendly, and Premium Economy gives you wider seats, upgraded dining, and priority boarding at a much better value than jumping to business class.

CDG has a mixed reputation, but it runs well if you’re sticking with Air France. Terminal 2E is where you’ll find fast connections, proper espresso, and some of the best duty-free shopping in Europe. Customer service has improved too, especially when things don’t go as planned.

Flying Blue is easy to use and great for deals. Their monthly Promo Rewards often feature Dublin for 25-50% fewer miles, with redemptions as low as 15,000-20,000 miles each way. Add in transfer bonuses from credit card partners like Amex and Chase, and you’ve got one of the better-value options for travelers who want comfort and savings at the same time.

9. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First, Suites
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: World-class service, excellent cuisine, award-winning lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use KrisFlyer’s “Book the Cook” feature if you’re flying Premium Economy or above. You can pre-order restaurant-quality meals like lobster thermidor or beef rendang.

Singapore Airlines isn’t the first name most people think of for flying to Ireland, but if you’re the kind of traveler who values comfort and doesn’t mind a longer route for better value, this might be your favorite option. Flights from New York, Los Angeles, Houston, and San Francisco connect through Singapore to London, where you can hop over to Dublin in just over an hour.

The long-haul leg is where Singapore really shines. Starting from Economy, the seats are roomy, the food has actual flavor, and the cabin crew genuinely makes you feel looked after. Premium Economy is a big step up without the steep price tag of Business Class. You get wider seats, upgraded meals, and small extras like priority boarding that take the edge off a long travel day. And if you’re flying Business or First, expect full lie-flat comfort and the chance to pre-order fine-dining meals.

What really elevates the experience is Changi Airport. Between the butterfly garden, the movie theaters, the 24-hour lounges, and the rooftop pool, it barely feels like a layover. You could easily turn it into a mini vacation. The airport runs smoothly, the signage is clear, and the staff actually seem happy to help.

KrisFlyer miles stretch surprisingly far. The Spontaneous Escapes promos cut up to 30% off award flights, and credit card transfer partners frequently run bonuses. Keep an eye out for seasonal fare drops to London, where savings of $400-600 are common. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Singapore

10. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), Vancouver (YVR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Signature Class)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: US pre-clearance, excellent lounges, modern fleet
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Aeroplan miles to upgrade from Economy to Premium Economy on Dublin routes. It costs fewer points than you’d think and makes the overnight flight way more comfortable.

Air Canada offers one of the smartest routes to Ireland through their efficient Canadian hubs. The airline’s extensive US network connects over 50 American cities to Toronto and Montreal, where you can catch their daily Dublin service. The northern routing actually provides shorter flight times than many European alternatives, while Air Canada’s modern Boeing 787s and Airbus A330s make the journey comfortable and efficient.

Service on board feels polished but still friendly in that unmistakably Canadian way. Economy includes solid meals, drinks, and entertainment, while Premium Economy gives you more space to stretch out, better food, and priority perks without jumping to business class pricing. If you do upgrade to Signature Class, expect lie-flat comfort, premium wines, and access to some of the nicest lounges in North America.

One of the biggest perks is what happens on the way back. When you fly home from Dublin through Canada, you’ll go through US customs in Toronto or Montreal before boarding, not after landing. That means you arrive in the US as a domestic passenger and skip the huge immigration lines. It’s a game changer if you’re tight on time or just want to make your re-entry painless.

Aeroplan is a surprisingly strong loyalty program now, with good award availability and frequent credit card transfer bonuses. Their “Market Fare” deals drop Dublin flights by 20-30% pretty regularly, and perks like free bags or lounge access are easy to unlock with elite status or a co-branded credit card. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Fly to Ireland

Curious about the best airlines to Ireland? Our FAQ section unravels all your queries, ensuring your journey to the land of saints and scholars is as smooth as a pint of Guinness.

What is the best airline to fly in Ireland?

When considering the best airline to fly to Ireland, it’s essential to factor in service quality, flight availability, and personal preferences. Aer Lingus, Ireland’s national carrier, is often a top choice for its extensive network and Irish hospitality. For luxury seekers, airlines like Emirates and Etihad offer premium experiences. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer Ryanair for its cost-effective options.

What airlines fly direct to Ireland?

Several airlines offer direct flights to Ireland, providing convenience and time-saving benefits. From the US, carriers like Aer Lingus, Delta, and United operate direct flights to cities like Dublin and Shannon. European travelers often have direct options with Ryanair and British Airways. Each airline offers a unique experience, from budget to luxury.

What month is the cheapest to fly to Ireland?

The cheapest month to fly to Ireland is typically during the off-peak season. This is usually in late fall and winter, excluding the holiday season. January and February often see lower fares due to reduced demand. It’s a great time for budget travelers to explore Ireland’s beauty without the crowds.

Is Aer Lingus a good airline?

Aer Lingus is known for its reliable service and is considered a good airline, especially for flights to and from Ireland. It offers a blend of comfort and value, with a variety of fare options to suit different budgets. The airline’s commitment to customer service and its extensive network within Ireland and internationally make it a popular choice.

What US airline is Aer Lingus affiliated with?

Aer Lingus is affiliated with several US airlines through codeshare agreements. One of its primary partners is United Airlines. This partnership allows for seamless travel between the US and Ireland, with shared benefits like coordinated flight schedules and joint ticketing options.

Which airline offers the most comfortable flights to Ireland?

For comfort, airlines like Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways offer luxurious amenities and service, even in economy class. Their focus on passenger comfort, with features like spacious seating and gourmet dining, makes them top choices for comfortable flights to Ireland.

What is the best airline to fly to Ireland for luxury travel?

For luxury travel to Ireland, Emirates and Etihad Airways stand out. They offer first-class and business-class experiences with amenities like private suites, gourmet meals, and superior in-flight entertainment. These airlines cater to travelers seeking a premium, luxurious journey to Ireland.

What are the best airlines from the US to Ireland?

The best airlines from the US to Ireland include Aer Lingus for its direct routes and Irish hospitality, Delta Air Lines for its extensive network and reliable service, and United Airlines for its frequent connections and partnership benefits. Each offers a range of options to cater to different travel needs and preferences.

Can I find budget-friendly flights to Ireland?

Yes, budget-friendly flights to Ireland are available, especially with airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus offering competitive fares. Booking during off-peak seasons or taking advantage of early bird specials can also lead to significant savings. Keep an eye on deals and consider flexible travel dates for the best budget-friendly options.

How long is the flight from the US to Ireland?

The flight duration from the US to Ireland varies depending on the departure city. East Coast cities like New York or Boston typically have flight times of around 6 to 7 hours to Dublin. From the West Coast, such as Los Angeles, the flight can take approximately 10 to 11 hours. Direct flights are the quickest way to reach Ireland from the US.

Ireland Airlines in 2025: A Recap

In conclusion, there are many top-rated airlines that fly to Ireland, each with its own unique strengths and offerings. From the renowned Irish hospitality of Aer Lingus to the expansive networks of Emirates and Delta, there is an airline out there to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

Whether you’re looking for exceptional customer service, state-of-the-art technology, or an extensive network of routes, Ireland has it all. So, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a quick weekend getaway, be sure to consider these top airlines for your journey to Ireland. And don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deal on airfare this year!

Happy Travels! – Jon

Read next: Scott’s Cheap Flights Review