Aer Lingus Baggage Policy

As a frequent traveler, understanding the baggage policy of an airline is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Aer Lingus, the flag carrier of Ireland, has a comprehensive baggage policy that aims to provide clarity and convenience to its passengers. In this article, we will dive deep into the Aer Lingus baggage policy, covering everything from baggage allowances to restrictions and fees.

What is Aer Lingus Carry On Baggage Policy?

When it comes to your carry-on baggage, Aer Lingus provides generous allowances to ensure your convenience. Here are the key details for the Aer Lingus Baggage allowance – 

Economy Class – Passengers are allowed one cabin bag weighing up to 10kg (22lb) with dimensions not exceeding 55cm x 40cm x 24cm (21.5in x 15.5in x 9.5in).

AerSpace and Business Class – Passengers can bring one cabin bag weighing up to 14 kg (31lb) with the same dimension restrictions as the Economy Class.

Remember that all carry-on bags must fit within the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you. Additionally, you may carry a small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or duty-free shopping bag.

Revised Cabin Baggage Options – Aer Lingus now offers two options for your carry-on bag weighing up to 22lb/10kg on flights within Europe:

Option 1  – Carry-on Bag with Priority Boarding

Passengers have the option to bring their 22lb/10kg carry-on bag on board if they purchase a Carry-on bag with priority boarding or if it is already included in their booking. This option is currently included for the following passengers/members:

• AerClub Silver, Platinum, and Concierge members (excluding their traveling companions)
• Passengers traveling on Plus, Advantage, and AerSpace fares
• Adult passengers traveling with infants
• Passengers connecting to/from a transatlantic Aer Lingus flight or a connecting flight with an interline partner

Option 2 – Drop-off at Check-in

Passengers can still travel with carry-on bags. However, they must drop it off at the check-in counter at no additional fee. If the option is not purchased and the bag is brought to the gate, a fee of 45 USD will be charged, and the bag will be placed in the aircraft hold.

Additional Cabin Baggage Information – Here are some important points to note regarding Aer Lingus cabin baggage policy:

• Aer Lingus Regional – When embarking on a connecting flight from Lingus to Aer Lingus Regional, it’s important to note that the reduced carry-on allowance of 15lb/7kg will be applicable for both flights. 

• Self-Stowage Requirement – To maintain smooth operations and convenience for all passengers, it is required that every traveler can independently place their carry-on bag in the overhead bin without requiring assistance. This helps optimize the boarding process and ensures efficient use of cabin space.

• Placement in the Hold – In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for your carry-on baggage to be placed in the hold. This can occur due to limitations in available space or if your bag exceeds the approved weight and/or size restrictions. 

• Storage of Bags – For optimal storage and convenience during the flight, we recommend placing smaller bags under the front seat and larger bags in the overhead bin. Passengers seated in the first row (whether in Economy or Business class) or at emergency exit rows are required to store their baggage exclusively in the overhead bin to comply with safety regulations.

• LAGs and TSA Rules – Your carry-on baggage must comply with the regulations for liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs), as well as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules if your flight is departing from the United States.

• Lap Infants – Please note that lap infants, infants traveling without a separate seat, are not entitled to a carry-on baggage allowance. 

• Assistive or Medical Devices – Necessary assistive or medical devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, canes, walkers, etc., are not considered part of your cabin baggage allowance. This means you can bring them with you free of charge, providing you with the necessary support and accessibility during your journey.

Please note that Aer Lingus baggage policy is subject to change, and it’s always advisable to check the official Aer Lingus website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

What is Aer Lingus Checked Baggage Policy?

Based on the Aer Lingus checked baggage policy, the following rules apply:

For flights within Europe:

• Passengers with Saver fares have no free checked baggage and need to purchase it separately.
• Passengers with Plus, Advantage, and AerSpace fares are allowed 44lb/20kg of checked baggage per person, and they can purchase additional weight if needed.
• Infants are allowed 1 fully collapsible stroller/buggy, along with a travel cot/booster seat/car seat.

For transatlantic routes:

• Passengers with Saver fares have no free checked baggage and must purchase it.
• Passengers with Economy Smart/Flex fares are allowed 1 bag weighing up to 50lb/23kg.
• Passengers with Business/Business Flex fares are allowed 3 bags, each weighing up to 50lb/23kg.
• Infants (children under 2 years) are allowed 22lb/10kg of checked baggage, along with 1 fully collapsible stroller/buggy and a travel cot/booster seat/car seat.

• Purchasing baggage online is up to 50% cheaper than buying it at the airport.

• The size of the luggage must be within 158cm (62in).

• Passengers can combine their baggage allowances if they are traveling on the same itinerary.

• Bags can be booked at discounted rates online up to 2 hours before the flight’s departure. This can be done at the time of booking the flight, through the Manage Trip option, or during check-in. 

Baggage can only be added online if the ticket was purchased through AerLingus.com. If the ticket was bought from a travel agent, the passenger must contact the agent directly to book their Aer Lingus checked baggage.

Destination/Fare Type	Saver	Plus/Advantage/AerSpace/Smart/Flex	Business
Flights within Europe	Not included in the fare	1 x 44lb/20kg	—
Transatlantic Flights	Not included in the fare	1 x 50lb/23kg	3 x 50lb/23kg each

Aer Lingus Baggage Fees—Weight Concept for Flights within Europe – When traveling within Europe on an Economy Saver fare, Aer Lingus provides passengers with a range of options to purchase baggage. These options include:

Baggage Option	Weight Allowance
Small Bag	Up to 33 lb/15kg
Medium Bag	Up to 44lb/20kg
Large Bag	Up to 55lb/25kg
Extra-Large Bag	2 bags up to 88 lb/40kg

Below is the overview of the travel route in accordance with the Aer Lingus baggage fees that appears in the table below 

Route	Size	Booking Channel	1 Bag (in USD)	2 Bags (in USD)	Extra Piece (in USD)	Excess Weight (in USD)
Near Route	Small Bag	Online (during booking)	22	28.75	33	75.55
	(33lb/15kg)	Manage Trip/Check-in	24	30.25	36	78.45
		Call Center	32	36.67	43.2	87.75
		Airport	NA	36.67	Not allowed	Not allowed

Route	Size	Booking Channel	1 Bag (in USD)	2 Bags (in USD)	Extra Piece (in USD)	Excess Weight (in USD)
Mid Route	Medium Bag	Online (during booking)	38	43.4	49.5	81.9
	(44lb/20kg)	Manage Trip/Check-in	40	45.5	51.6	84.8
		Call Center	49	54.6	60.7	102.4
		Airport	NA	54.6	Not allowed	Not allowed

Route	Size	Booking Channel	1 Bag (in USD)	2 Bags (in USD)	Extra Piece (in USD)	Excess Weight (in USD)
Far Route	Large Bag	Online (during booking)	54	59.85	65.7	109.05
	(55lb/25kg)	Manage Trip/Check-in	56	61.75	67.6	112.95
		Call Center	65	70.85	76.7	121.15
		Airport	NA	70.85	Not allowed	Not allowed

Route	Near Routes	Mid Routes	Far Routes
	Southend, Shannon, Rennes, Paris, Newquay,	Zurich, Warsaw, Vienna, Verona, Venice, Toulouse,	Tenerife, Rhodes, Naples, Lanzarote, Izmir, Gran Canaria,
	Newcastle, Nantes, Manchester, London,	Stuttgart, Split, Santiago de Compostela, Rome, Pula,	Fuerteventura, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Catania, Brindisi,
	Liverpool, Leeds Bradford, Knock, Kerry,	Prague, Pisa, Perpignan, Palma, Nice, Murcia, Munich,	Bourgas, Athens
	Jersey, Isle of Man, Inverness, Glasgow,	Montpellier, Milan, Marseille, Malaga, Madrid, Lyon,
	Exeter, Edinburgh, East Midlands, Donegal,	Lisbon, Ibiza, Hamburg, Geneva, Frankfurt, Faro,
	Doncaster, Cork, Cardiff, Brussels, Bristol,	Dusseldorf, Copenhagen, Budapest, Bordeaux, Bologna,
	Bournemouth, Blackpool, Birmingham,	Bilbao, Berlin, Barcelona, Alicante, Alghero

What is Aer Lingus Sports Equipment Policy?

Aer Lingus sports baggage policy allows passengers to transport their sports equipment as checked baggage. Here are the guidelines:

• The standard weight limit must be within 50lb/23kg. If it exceeds this limit, the checked baggage fees will apply.
• Each passenger is allowed to carry one piece of sports equipment.
• Passengers traveling to or from North America can include sports equipment as part of their regular baggage allowance. If the equipment exceeds this allowance, an excess baggage rate of USD 100 will be charged.

• For European flights and all other flights, passengers must pay a flat fee for sports equipment:

	Online Payment (in USD)	Reservations Office Payment (in USD)	Airport Payment (in USD)
European flights and others	48	60	50

These Aer Lingus baggage fees must be paid before departure, and it applies per passenger, per way.

Guidelines for carrying sports equipment – The weight, size, and restrictions that apply to your sports equipment are listed below, along with some packing suggestions, as per Aer Lingus baggage policy. 

Golf Bags

• Each person is allowed to bring a maximum of one golf bag containing golf clubs and other golfing gear.
• A maximum of 12 golf bags per flight are permitted on ATR72 aircraft.
• Golf bags should be packed securely and in compliance with baggage regulations.
• Any additional fees associated with carrying golf bags should be paid at the reservation center or at the airport on the day of departure.
• It is advisable to arrive at check-in at least 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow sufficient time for security and handling procedures.

Bicycles

• The maximum limit for bicycles on Aer Lingus flights is 10 per flight, except for specific airports where the limit is 6 per flight due to high cargo volumes 
• Bicycles can be transported as checked baggage on Aer Lingus flights.
• Reservations for bicycles can be made by contacting the local reservations office.
• Prepayment of the bicycle carriage fee can only be done over the phone.
• On Aer Lingus Regional flights, only 1 unit per flight is allowed.
• Bicycles cannot be transported on flights to/from Toronto due to aircraft constraints.
• Bicycles should be packed securely and in compliance with baggage regulations. The handlebars must be lowered and fixed sideways, tire pressure should be reduced, and pedals should be inverted if possible. Sharp parts should be protected with plastic or cardboard.

Packing Bicycles

• Before transporting bicycles, the handlebars must be lowered and fixed sideways.
• The tire pressure should be reduced to avoid problems in case of pressurization changes during the flight.
• If possible, invert the pedals.
• Sharp projecting parts should be protected with plastic or cardboard to prevent damage to other cargo.
• For travelers from Amsterdam, boxes can be provided at an additional cost of 30 USD.
• Passengers must arrive at check-in at least 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Sports Guns

• Passengers planning to travel with firearms must arrive at check-in at least 3 hours before departure time for necessary checks and documentation verification.
• Passengers are responsible for all documentation and licenses, and they should contact the relevant embassy or consulate to inquire about regulations in the destination and transit countries.
• Sports guns must be unloaded, dismantled, and packed individually in a locked and labeled case.
• Dismantled sports guns should be presented with checked baggage.
• Items must be packed separately from other baggage and available for security inspection.
• Ammunition is limited to a maximum of 5 kg per passenger, including packaging. It must be packed in containers made of wood, metal, or fireboard, securely locked and labeled as firearms.
• Only the licensed firearm owner, with a valid firearm license, is allowed to check in a sports gun.
• Flights within Europe may incur an extra charge for transporting sports guns.

Note: Sports weapons/firearms/ammunition cannot be carried on any regional flights.

Diving Equipment

• Diving equipment can be transported as checked baggage on Aer Lingus flights.
• Diving equipment includes items such as scuba tanks, regulators, masks, fins, wetsuits, and other related gear.
• Diving equipment should be securely packed in a suitable container or bag to prevent damage during transport.
• Any sharp or delicate parts of the equipment should be appropriately protected to avoid causing harm to baggage handlers or other items.
• The Aer Lingus baggage weight and size restrictions for diving equipment may vary depending on the specific flight and aircraft. It is recommended to check with Aer Lingus or refer to their website for the most up-to-date information.
• Additional fees may apply for carrying diving equipment, and these fees should be paid at the reservation center or at the airport on the day of departure. Pre-booking of diving equipment may be required.
• It is advisable to arrive at check-in with sufficient time (at least 90 minutes before the scheduled departure) to allow for security and handling procedures.

It is important to comply with any safety regulations or restrictions imposed by Aer Lingus or relevant authorities regarding the transportation of diving equipment.

It is recommended to contact Aer Lingus directly or visit their official website for detailed information and any specific requirements related to carrying diving equipment.

Fishing Equipment

• It can be transported as checked baggage on Aer Lingus flights.
• It includes items such as fishing rods, reels, tackle boxes, and other related gear.
• It should be securely packed in a suitable container or bag to prevent damage during transport.
• It is advisable to disassemble fishing rods and place them in a protective case or tube.
• Any sharp or delicate parts of the equipment should be appropriately protected to avoid causing harm to baggage handlers or other items.
• The maximum permitted length of the gear must be within 2.05m/6ft 9 inches.

The Aer Lingus baggage size restrictions for fishing equipment may vary depending on the specific flight and aircraft. It is recommended to check with Aer Lingus or refer to their website for the most up-to-date information.

Surfboards

• The maximum length of a surfboard is 2.4 meters or 94 inches. 
• To prevent damage, they must be packaged with cushioning material like bubble wrap.
• Surfboards on Aer Lingus Regional flights cannot be longer than 2.05m (about 80 inches).

Windsurfing Equipment

• Windsurfing equipment cannot be reserved online. You must make a reservation by calling the local reservations office.
• Each person is limited to carrying single piece of equipment. 
• The length of the object must be within 2.4m or 94 inches.
• To prevent damage, windsurfing equipment needs to be packed.
• Please allow enough time to check in so that security and handling processes can be completed. You must arrive at check-in at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Skis

• Each person may reserve a single set of skis, boots, and poles online.

Snowboards

• Online reservations are only accepted for one snowboard per person.

Sports equipment fee – Sports equipment is carried as part of the regular baggage allowance on flights to and from North America. Sports Equipment must pay for all other flights:

Equipment	Online Fees per Flight (USD)	Reservations Office/Airport Fees per Flight (USD)
Bicycles	45.92	57.4
Diving Equipment	45.92	57.4
Fishing Gear	45.92	57.4
Golf Equipment	45.92	57.4
Skis	45.92	57.4
Sports Guns	45.92	57.4
Surfboards	45.92	57.4
Snowboards	45.92	57.4
Windsurfing Equipment	45.92	57.4

What is Aer Lingus Musical Instrument Policy?

Aer Lingus’ musical instrument policy allows passengers to bring musical instruments as carry-on or checked baggage. Here are the key points of the policy:

Carry-on Musical Instruments:

• Small musical instruments that fit within the carry-on baggage dimensions (55cm x 40cm x 24cm) and weight allowance (7kg) can be brought into the cabin.
• Instruments must be safely stowed in an overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
• If the instrument exceeds the carry-on size limits, it must be checked as baggage.

Checked Musical Instruments:

• Larger musical instruments that cannot fit in the cabin or exceed carry-on weight limits can be checked as baggage.
• Checked musical instruments are subject to the airline’s standard checked baggage allowances and fees.
• Instruments must be properly packed or placed in a hard case to protect them during handling and transport.

Musical Instrument Fees:

• Musical instruments that meet the carry-on size and weight limits do not incur additional fees.
• If the instrument needs to be checked as baggage, the regular Aer Lingus checked baggage fees apply. The fee would be charged at the same rate as 45 USD per passenger. 
• Oversized or overweight instruments may require special handling and may incur additional fees.

Liability and Protection:

• Aer Lingus assumes limited liability for damage to musical instruments, particularly if they are fragile or expensive.
• It is advisable to purchase additional travel insurance or verify if your instrument is covered under any existing insurance policies.

Please note that it is always recommended to check with Aer Lingus directly or review their official website for the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding their musical instrument policy.

Delayed or Missing Baggage with Aer Lingus

In the unfortunate event of Aer Lingus missing baggage conditions, here are the steps you can take:

• Report the Issue – As soon as you realize your baggage is delayed or missing, proceed to the Baggage Service Desk or contact Aer Lingus personnel at the airport. Report the issue and provide them with the necessary information, including your baggage claim tags and contact details.

• Baggage Tracing – Aer Lingus will initiate a tracing process to locate your baggage. They will assign you a unique Aer Lingus baggage tracking number and keep you informed of any progress.

• Baggage Delivery – If your baggage is located, Aer Lingus will arrange for its delivery to your specified address. Ensure you provide accurate contact information to facilitate this process.

• Compensation for Essential Items – In case of baggage delay, Aer Lingus may provide you with compensation to cover essential items like clothing and toiletries. Keep receipts for these expenses, as they may be required for reimbursement.

• Baggage Compensation – If your baggage remains missing for an extended period, Aer Lingus has a liability limit for lost baggage. You will need to submit a detailed claim, including a list of the missing items, their value, and supporting documentation, such as purchase receipts or baggage tags.

• Baggage Tracing Updates – Throughout the process, stay in touch with Aer Lingus regarding the status of your baggage. They will provide you with regular updates on the progress of the search.

If you need further assistance or have any concerns, contact Aer Lingus’ customer service. They will be able to provide additional guidance and support.

Remember to remain patient and cooperative during the process, as recovering delayed or missing baggage can take time.

Aer Lingus Baggage Liability—Lost and Damaged Bags 

Aer Lingus has specific policies regarding liability for lost and damaged baggage. Here are the key points:

Lost Baggage Liability:

• In the unfortunate event that your baggage is lost, Aer Lingus will make every effort to locate and return it to you.
• If your baggage cannot be located within a specified period, you may be eligible for compensation up to a certain limit as determined by applicable laws and regulations.
• It is important to report your Aer Lingus lost baggage immediately upon discovery and follow their instructions regarding the claims process.

Damaged Baggage Liability:

• If your baggage is damaged during transportation, Aer Lingus may provide compensation for the repair or replacement of the damaged items.
• It is essential to report the damage to Aer Lingus as soon as possible and retain any relevant documentation, such as photographs or receipts, to support your claim.

Liability Limitations:

• Aer Lingus’ liability for lost or damaged baggage is typically subject to international conventions and applicable laws.
• The specific liability limit may vary depending on the route, destination, and type of travel (international or domestic).
• It is recommended to review the terms and conditions provided by Aer Lingus or contact their customer service for detailed information on liability limitations.

Exclusions and Valuable Items:

• Aer Lingus may have limitations or exclusions on certain items of high value or fragile nature, such as cash, jewelry, electronics, and fragile items.
• It is advisable to declare and obtain appropriate insurance coverage for valuable items before travel, as airline liability may not fully cover their loss or damage.

Claims Process:

• To initiate a claim for lost or damaged baggage, you will need to submit a detailed report and supporting documentation to Aer Lingus.
• This documentation may include baggage claim tags, proof of ownership, receipts, and any other relevant evidence.
• Aer Lingus will review the claim and determine the appropriate compensation based on its policies and applicable regulations.

It’s important to note that specific details and procedures for baggage liability may vary. 

What are Prohibited items with Aer Lingus?

Aer Lingus has specific guidelines regarding prohibited items that are not allowed on their flights. These guidelines are in place to ensure passenger safety and comply with aviation regulations. Here are some examples of items that are typically prohibited under Aer Lingus baggage policy – 

Explosives and Flammable Materials:

• Dynamite, fireworks, flares, and other explosive devices are strictly prohibited.
• Flammable liquids and gasses such as gasoline, lighter fuel, and propane are not allowed.

Weapons and Firearms:

• Guns, firearms, and ammunition are generally not permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage.
• Certain exceptions and regulations apply for transporting firearms as checked baggage, such as proper declaration and adherence to specific requirements. It is recommended to check with Aer Lingus in advance for detailed instructions.

Sharp Objects:

• Items with sharp edges or points that could be used as weapons, such as knives, box cutters, and razor blades, are prohibited in carry-on baggage.
• Some sharp objects may be allowed in checked baggage, but it is important to comply with the airline’s guidelines and any relevant restrictions.

Explosive and Chemical Substances:

• Substances that are potentially explosive or pose a risk to safety, such as compressed gasses, corrosives, and toxic substances, are prohibited.
• This includes items like bleach, acids, and certain cleaning agents.

Restricted Items:

• Certain items, such as lithium batteries, certain types of electronic devices, and aerosols, may be subject to specific restrictions or limitations. It is advisable to check with Aer Lingus for any restrictions on these items.

Illegal Substances:

• Possession or transportation of illegal drugs or substances is strictly prohibited on Aer Lingus flights.

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of prohibited items. Aer Lingus may have additional restrictions or specific guidelines. 

By adhering to the Aer Lingus baggage policy and understanding the procedures in place, passengers can have a smoother journey and mitigate potential complications related to their baggage. 

It is advisable to check the official Aer Lingus website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate information on the baggage policy before traveling.

Frequently Asked Questions

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