Aer Lingus can now fly from England to the US opening up new possibilities for American travelers (eventually)
After postponing its new routes between the U.K and the United States earlier this year, Aer Lingus has now received permission from the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority to start service between England and the U.S.
Starting Sept. 30, the Irish airline will launch nonstop service between Manchester (MAN) and New York-JFK and Orlando (MCO). On Oct. 20, a direct flight to Barbados (BGI) will be added. Another route to Boston (BOS) is expected to launch in the summer of 2022.
These new routes are excellent news for travelers in the northwest of England and potentially, eventually for Americans. Aside from the new nonstop service and extra Avios earning opportunities, this also provides them with a convenient way to get to these destinations on points without having to go to London first.
At least for now, these flights are not for sale to U.S. consumers as you can see in the press release announcing the routes.
An Aer Lingus spokesperson told TPG, "While Aer Lingus awaits imminent approval from the US Department of Transport (DOT), tickets on the Manchester to U.S. services can not be sold in the U.S."
The DOT has given 'approval in principle' for the route, but tickets can't be sold in the U.S. until final approval is granted.
These new flights can be booked with Avios, and Aer Lingus has recently been added to the American Airlines and British Airways joint venture, meaning there's ample backup in case of a delay or rebooking.
Related: Aer Lingus forced to delay launch of nonstop routes from Manchester to the US
According to a statement issued by Aer Lingus, the following rates apply for the new flights (per one-way in economy class):
- Manchester (MAN) to New York-JFK: 20,000 Avios in the summer of 2021 (down to 13,000 in autumn and winter)
- Manchester (MAN) to Orlando (MCO): 25,000 Avios in the summer of 2021 (down to 16,250 in autumn and winter)
- Manchester (MAN) to Barbados (BGI): 16,250 Avios in autumn and winter of 2021.
Avios amounts for flights to Boston are yet unknown but are expected to be around 20,000 Avios, given the similar distance to the New York-JFK flights.
Related: How to book Aer Lingus award tickets with Avios
In recent years, Aer Lingus has really upped its game with new aircraft and refreshed cabins. The Boston and New York City routes will be flown on the single-aisle Airbus A321Neo, of which the airline took delivery back in 2019.
On the Orlando and Barbados routes, a wide-body Airbus A330 will be used.
Additional reporting by Clint Henderson.
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