Aer Lingus' Near, Mid, And Far Destinations Explained

what constitutes near mid and far on aer lingus

As of 2016, Aer Lingus has implemented a new baggage fee structure that is determined by the distance travelled, with three categories: near, mid, and far. Previously, the airline differentiated between high and low seasons when charging for checked baggage. Now, the distance travelled determines the cost of checked baggage, with the 'near' category including destinations like the UK and Amsterdam, the 'mid' category covering cities such as Berlin and Venice, and the 'far' category encompassing locations such as Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Characteristics Values
Determining Factor Distance travelled
Number of Categories 3
Near UK, Amsterdam, Cork
Mid Berlin, Palma, Venice
Far Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Tenerife

cycivic

Near category locations

The 'near' category locations for Aer Lingus flights are those that are geographically closer to the airline's hub, which is in Ireland. These destinations include the UK and Amsterdam. Cork was also previously listed as a 'near' category location.

The cost of checked baggage with Aer Lingus is determined by the distance travelled, with three categories: 'near', 'mid', and 'far'. The 'near' category represents the closest destinations to Ireland, where the airline is based. This category includes major cities in the United Kingdom, such as London, Liverpool, and Edinburgh. These locations are typically within a shorter flight radius, making them part of the 'near' category.

Amsterdam, a vibrant city in the Netherlands, is also included in the 'near' category. Known for its picturesque canals, world-renowned museums, and charming architecture, Amsterdam is a popular destination for travellers. Its proximity to Ireland aligns with the criteria for the 'near' category locations.

Previously, Cork was also listed as a 'near' category location. However, it seems that Cork has been reclassified, as recent sources do not include it in the 'near' category. Cork is the second-largest city in Ireland and offers a blend of historic charm and modern attractions. While it may no longer be specifically categorized as 'near', Cork continues to be a significant destination served by Aer Lingus.

Travellers to these 'near' category locations benefit from more affordable baggage fees compared to mid and far destinations. The introduction of this new structure has resulted in lower costs for passengers travelling to nearby destinations. For example, a guest bringing a 20kg bag on a return trip to London would pay €50, which is a decrease from the previous year's high-season rate of €70.

cycivic

Mid category locations

In 2016, Aer Lingus changed its baggage fee structure, with the cost of checked baggage now determined by the distance travelled. The new system consists of three categories: 'near', 'mid', and 'far'. The 'mid' category includes destinations such as Berlin, Palma, Venice, and Malaga. Travellers to these locations will incur higher baggage fees compared to 'near' destinations, but may still see savings compared to previous years. For example, a family travelling to Tenerife ('far' location) over the Easter holidays paid €110 for a 20kg bag, compared to €40 the previous year. Similarly, two 25kg suitcases would cost €240.

The baggage fees for 'mid' category locations are higher during the 'high season' in the summer months and Christmas period. However, travellers to these destinations during the ''low season', between October and May, may be able to take advantage of lower fees. It is worth noting that the baggage fees for 'mid' category locations are not just based on distance but also reflect a full price increase. This means that travellers to these destinations will generally pay more, regardless of the season.

The 'mid' category locations offer a range of exciting travel options for visitors. Berlin, Germany's bustling capital, is known for its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and landmarks like the Berlin Wall memorial. Palma, located on the Spanish island of Mallorca, offers a mix of scenic beaches, historic sites, and cultural experiences. Venice, Italy, is renowned for its romantic atmosphere, picturesque canals, and iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. Malaga, another Spanish city, boasts sunny beaches, historic sites like the Gibralfaro Castle, and cultural institutions such as the Picasso Museum.

When planning a trip to any of these 'mid' category locations, it is essential to consider the baggage fees and plan accordingly. Travellers should also be mindful of the weight and size restrictions for checked baggage to avoid additional charges. By staying informed about the latest baggage policies and planning their packing strategically, travellers can ensure a more enjoyable journey and make the most of their time in these captivating destinations.

cycivic

Far category locations

The 'far' category locations on Aer Lingus refer to destinations that are considered farther away from the airline's base location. These locations incur higher baggage fees compared to the 'near' and 'mid' categories. The specific locations that fall under the 'far' category include:

  • Lanzarote
  • Gran Canaria
  • Tenerife

These destinations are typically considered vacation spots, and the baggage fees for these locations can vary depending on the season. For example, a family travelling to Tenerife during the Easter holidays had to pay €110 for a 20kg bag, whereas the same bag would have cost €40 at the same time the previous year.

It's important to note that the categorization of locations as 'far', 'mid', or 'near' is based on the distance travelled and is used to determine the cost of checked baggage. This structure was introduced by Aer Lingus in 2016, replacing the previous differentiation between high and low season fees. While guests travelling to 'mid' and 'far' destinations incur higher baggage fees, those travelling to 'near' destinations may benefit from lower fees compared to the previous baggage fee structure.

cycivic

How baggage fees have changed

Aer Lingus offers different baggage allowances depending on the type of fare purchased and the route of the flight. The airline encourages passengers to prepay for luggage online, which can save up to 50% compared to airport prices.

For Aer Lingus journeys between North America and the UK or continental Europe, the transatlantic checked baggage allowance will apply for all flights within a single itinerary or reservation. For itineraries booked as separate reservations, relevant European or transatlantic policies will apply. Pooling or sharing of baggage allowance is permitted when travelling with a partner within the same booking and when checking in together.

On Aer Lingus flights, all passengers are allowed to travel with a 10kg carry-on bag and a small personal item (such as a handbag or laptop bag). The 7kg carry-on baggage allowance applies to Aer Lingus Regional services.

Plus, Advantage, and AerSpace fares include a 20kg checked bag, with the option to purchase more weight. Saver fares, on the other hand, do not include any baggage, so this must be purchased separately. Passengers can add up to three pieces to split their weight allowance across, but adding an extra piece does not increase the weight allowance.

Excess baggage charges apply for any additional checked bags or weight over the allowance, depending on the fare type. The weight of any one piece of baggage cannot exceed 32kg. Sports equipment and musical instruments can be carried as part of the free checked baggage allowance or as part of an additional purchased allowance if required.

Trump's Threat to the Constitution

You may want to see also

cycivic

How baggage fees compare to previous years

As of 2024, Aer Lingus allows 1 free carry-on item and 1 personal item for all passengers on transatlantic flights. On European flights, Aer Lingus provides flexibility for purchasing different weights, with the ability to split that weight across multiple pieces. For example, Plus, Advantage, and AerSpace fares include a 44-pound (20 kg) bag, with the option to purchase more weight. Saver fares, on the other hand, do not include any baggage, so it must be purchased separately. Passengers can add up to 3 pieces to split their weight allowance across, but this does not increase the weight limit.

In 2024, Aer Lingus charges an excess baggage fee for baggage weighing between 23 kg and 32 kg (50 lbs and 70 lbs). The fee is €75, £68, or $100, depending on the currency. Additionally, for baggage weighing between 20-32 kg / 44-70 lb, the overweight baggage fee is €9 / £6 / $12 if paid online and €15 / £12 / $20 if paid at the airport.

For flights in 2025, Aer Lingus allows passengers to bring one piece of hand luggage and one small item (like a handbag or laptop bag) onboard. The allowance differs between Aer Lingus and Aer Lingus Regional flights. For Aer Lingus Regional flights, passengers can bring one piece of cabin baggage up to 7 kg with maximum dimensions of 48 x 33 x 20 cm. For all other Aer Lingus flights, the allowance is one piece of cabin baggage up to 10 kg, with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 24 cm.

In 2025, Aer Lingus also introduced a checked baggage fee, which depends on the fare type and flight route. This fee is in addition to excess baggage fees for overweight luggage, which are priced per kilo and depend on the route. Sporting equipment can be checked for approximately €40 per item each way within Europe, while a fee of €75 per item applies for transatlantic flights if it is carried in addition to the standard baggage allowance.

Citing Foreign Law: Constitution Edition

You may want to see also

Frequently asked questions

The cost of checked baggage with Aer Lingus is determined by the distance travelled to the destination. The three categories are:

- Near: UK and Amsterdam

- Mid: Berlin, Palma, Venice

- Far: Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Tenerife

The baggage fees for 'near' destinations are 40% lower compared to the previous year. For instance, a guest travelling to London in June 2017 paid €70 for a 20kg bag, whereas in June 2016, the fee was €50.

The weight of any single piece of baggage cannot exceed 32kg or 70lbs.

Yes, the baggage fee structure does not apply to sports equipment and musical instruments. These items can be carried as part of the free checked baggage allowance.

The change in baggage fee structure has resulted in a full price increase for mid and far destinations. This means that guests travelling to these destinations will incur higher overall costs for their trips.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment