Aer Lingus is to launch a new enhanced short-haul economy product called Aer Space in the fourth quarter of this year.
The announcement was made during the carrier’s results presentation for the first half of 2015, as can be seen on the slide pictured below.
The airline says that the new offering – which it stresses is still an economy class product – will be based on a “deep research programme”, and will feature benefits including:
- The middle seat being kept free
- Priority boarding
- Priority hand baggage
- Priority baggage
- Full ticket flexibility
- Lounge access
- Complimentary food
Aer Lingus says that “product justification is key”, and that the new offering is “aimed at consolidating leadership in key Euro cities markets”.
The news comes as Aer Lingus is poised to be taken over by British Airways’ parent company International Airlines Group (see news July 15).
The European Commission has approved IAG's €1.3bn (£940 million) takeover of the Irish airline, and as part of the deal, IAG will have to forfeit five daily slots at London Gatwick for competition reasons.
Mark Caswell