From 25 February, passengers travelling on Aer Lingus services between Ireland and Great Britain must show a valid passport or Irish passport card after the airline tightened ID rules previously based on bus passes, workplace badges and student cards. The policy shift, confirmed in a 23 February briefing, brings Aer Lingus into line with Ryanair but diverges from British Airways, which will still accept alternative photo ID on the same routes. Aer Lingus says harmonising document checks across its network will streamline boarding and reduce last-minute “problem profiles” at gates. However, the move effectively ends the long-standing convenience of passport-free air travel within the Common Travel Area for many Irish and UK citizens. Ferry operators on the Irish Sea will continue to accept other IDs. Travel consultants warn that confusion is likely because British Airways markets Aer Lingus code-share flights on ba.com; unwary travellers could arrive at the airport without a passport and be denied boarding. Firms with frequent commuters between Dublin and London or regional UK bases should update internal booking guidance immediately and audit staff compliance. The decision intensifies debate over whether the aviation sector is eroding the informality of the CTA as security expectations rise. An Irish Government spokesperson reiterated there is “no legal requirement” for passports on CTA journeys, but acknowledged carriers are free to apply stricter conditions. Longer term, the policy could increase demand for the €35 Irish passport card, which fits ICAO standards and is accepted for EU/EEA travel. Procurement teams may find bulk applications for cards a cost-effective mitigation for staff who routinely fly cross-channel.
Source: The Independent
