VINTAGE - 90 years of flying: Aer Lingus’ oldest aircraft takes to the skies again

Restored 1936 de Havilland Dragon flies original Dublin–Bristol route on the

exact date of the airline's inaugural flight, ninety years on

Aer Lingus is marking 90 years of flying as it unveils its newly-restored Iolar aircraft. 

EI-ABI, known as Iolar (Irish for eagle), is a rare de Havilland DH.84 Dragon, which dates back to 1936.
The aircraft will today fly from Dublin to Bristol, recreating Aer Lingus’ inaugural flight of 27 May 1936 – a journey which marked the beginning of the airline’s story of growth and resilience, which continues today.
Back in 1936, Aer Lingus was a fledgling airline with one aircraft, one route, five passengers, driven by
an ambition to connect Ireland to the world. 

Since then, the airline has flown everyone from Popes to Presidents, proudly providing an enduring connection between Ireland, the UK, Europe and North America.
Aer Lingus’ de Havilland DH.84 Dragon, EI-ABI Iolar, is one of the last remaining aircrafts of its type
and represents Ireland’s rich and storied aviation history. 

Today’s flight to Bristol Airport is a special voyage for the aircraft as it marks Aer Lingus’ 90th anniversary.

As Aer Lingus’ first aircraft, EI-ABI Iolar operated for two years with the newly-formed Irish airline,
before it was sold and later lost during World War II. 

Today’s Iolar is a sister aircraft to the original, which was welcomed into the Aer Lingus fleet in the 1960s. It was first restored for the airline’s 50th anniversary in 1986. 

Now re-registered as EI-ABI, Iolar remains an enduring symbol of Aer Lingus’ heritage.
Iolar had been proudly on display in Aer Lingus’ maintenance headquarters at Dublin Airport in recent
years, with preparations to return the aircraft to its former glory commencing ahead of Aer Lingus’ 90th
anniversary. 

The four‑month restoration, carried out by Midland Aviation at Abbeyshrule Aerodrome in County Longford, was supported by a dedicated group of Aer Lingus volunteers.
The skilled team combined archival research, engineering expertise and traditional craftsmanship to
restore the aircraft, while preserving its structural integrity and historical authenticity. 

The restoration work included maintenance and certification checks, including full top overhauls of both engines and careful cosmetic restoration of the airframe, with the skills of one of Ireland’s last aviation carpenters playing a vital role in preserving the aircraft’s authenticity.
Lynne Embleton, Aer Lingus Chief Executive Officer, said: “The restoration of Iolar is a powerful
way for us to reconnect with the very beginnings of our airline 90 years ago and the pioneering spirit
that shaped Irish aviation.

Photo: PL Ryan / Aer Lingus

“I am incredibly proud of the dedication and expertise shown by our colleagues and partners in

bringing Iolar back to life, preserving an important piece of our history for future generations.
“As we mark our 90th anniversary, we’re conscious not only of where we have come from, but how far
we have progressed over the past nine decades.
“From that first flight carrying five passengers across the Irish Sea, the airline today connects Ireland
to over 100 destinations across Europe, the UK and North America.
“The story we started in 1936 is still being written and we intend to make the next chapter as
innovative and groundbreaking as the first.
”
This project has been supported by the Aer Lingus Charitable Foundation, reflecting a shared
commitment to preserving Ireland’s industrial and transport heritage for future generations.

Aer Lingus ends operations on UK certificate

Flyingphotos - Faro

Aer Lingus (United Kingdom) (EG, Belfast City) operated its final flight on March 31, 2026, and is in the process of transferring both of its A330-300s back to the parent company, Aer Lingus (EI, Dublin International).

EI-EDY (msn 1025) was reregistered in Ireland on March 13, 2026, following its last revenue flight under the UK certificate on March 2, on the Orlando International-Manchester route, then as G-EIDY. It has been operating for Aer Lingus under the Irish certificate since March 19.

The second unit of the type, G-EILA (msn 1106), continued under the British AOC until the end of March, with the last service from Orlando on March 30. It was ferried to Dublin International the next day and has remained parked since then. UK records indicate that the aircraft remains registered in the country, but an application to export it has already been filed.

Aer Lingus announced earlier this year that it would close its Manchester base at the end of March, ending its transatlantic services from the UK.

The IAG International Airlines Group-owned airline did not respond to ch-aviation's question whether it planned to retain the UK certificate for potential future use or surrender it.

Aer Lingus' fleet on the Irish certificate comprises twenty-seven A320-200s, eight A320-200Ns, eight A321-200NX(LR)s, six A321-200NY(XLR)s, three A330-200s, and eleven A330-300s (excluding G-EILA, which has yet to be transferred).

VINTAGE Special colors - Aer Lingus / B737-500 / EI-CDB

 Flyingphotos / Lisboa

VINTAGE Special colors - Aer Lingus / B737-500 / EI-CDC

Flyingphotos / Lisboa
 

ROUTES - AER LINGUS NS26 TRANS-ATLANTIC SERVICE EXPANSION

Aer Lingus yesterday (17SEP25) announced Trans-Atlantic service expansion for Northern summer 2026 season, including the launch of Dublin – Raleigh/Durham route. Planned expansion as of 17SEP25 include the following.


Dublin – Boston eff 13APR26 Increase from 14 to 21 weekly (18 weekly 20MAY26 – 16AUG26)
EI133 DUB1240 – 1440BOS 333 D
EI137 DUB1645 – 1845BOS 333 D
EI139 DUB1950 – 2200BOS 32Q x135

EI132 BOS1730 – 0430+1DUB 333 D
EI136 BOS2125 – 0825+1DUB 333 D
EI138 BOS2330 – 1035+1DUB 32Q x247

Dublin – Cleveland eff 04APR26 Increase from 6 to 7 weekly
Dublin – Indianapolis eff 16APR26 Increase from 4 to 5 weekly
Dublin – Nashville eff 15APR26 Increase from 4 to 5 weekly
Dublin – New York JFK eff 29MAR26 Increase from 2 to 3 daily
EI105 DUB1105 – 1325JFK 333 D
EI107 DUB1645 – 1920JFK 333 D
EI109 DUB1945 – 2215JFK 32Q D

EI104 JFK1655 – 0425+1DUB 333 D
EI106 JFK2105 – 0845+1DUB 333 D
EI108 JFK2345 – 1120+1DUB 32Q D

Dublin – Orlando 21MAY26 – 13AUG26 Increase from 6 to 7 weekly
Dublin – Raleigh/Durham eff 13APR26 5 weekly A321XLR, new route
EI085 DUB1525 – 1855RDU 32Q x36
EI084 RDU2025 – 0845+1DUB 32Q x36


Shannon – Boston 19MAY26 – 14AUG26 Increase from 7 to 10 weekly
EI145 SNN1100 – 1300BOS 32Q 135
EI135 SNN1345 – 1530BOS 32Q D

EI134 BOS1835 – 0525+1SNN 32Q D

Photo: Duncan Stewart - LAX

FLEET / ORDER - IAG announces Airbus and Boeing-orders

During the presentation of its Q1-2025 financial results, the International Airlines Group, IAG, announced it has placed orders for 71 new widebody aircraft with both Airbus and Boeing.

For British Airways, the Group firmed-up options for six A350-1000s and six B777-9s. It has also placed new orders for 32 B787-10s, with options on another ten.

For Iberia, IAG firmed-up options for six A350-900s.

A new type ordered by IAG is the A330-900. A total of 21 have been ordered, with options for another thirteen. IAG said it can deploy these new widebodies with Aer Lingus, Iberia and/or LEVEL.

Deliveries of the new aircraft is set to begin in 2026 and will continue until 2033.

Photos: Duncan Stewart - LAX

 

FLEET - Aer Lingus takes delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR aircraft

Ireland’s national carrier Aer Lingus has taken delivery of its first of six A321XLR aircraft. The airline becomes the second in the world to operate the A321XLR as well as the second in the International Airlines Group (IAG).

Powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, the aircraft took off from the Airbus production site in Hamburg, Germany, on 18 December to Aer Lingus’ home base at Dublin airport, Ireland.

The Aer Lingus A321XLR is configured with 184 seats in a two-class layout featuring 16 full-flat Business Class and 168 Economy Class seats. It is the first aircraft in the Aer Lingus fleet to offer passengers and cabin crew the enhanced comfort of Airbus’ Airspace Cabin, featuring XL overhead bins with 60% more storage space compared to previous generation aircraft. In addition, in-seat connectivity is available to all passengers while the latest lighting system enhances the overall passenger experience.

The aircraft will enable Aer Lingus to operate new routes beyond the US East Coast and Canada, with destinations including Nashville and Indianapolis.

The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step of the A320neo Family, responding to market needs for more range and payload, creating even more value for the airlines. It will deliver an unprecedented Xtra Long Range of up to 4,700nm, some 15% more range than the A321LR and 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation competitor aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. So far, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the type.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

SPECIAL COLORS - Aer Lingus unveils special refreshed Irish rugby team livery on an Airbus A320

Irish national carrier Aer Lingus has revealed its latest rugby-inspired livery, paying homage to the Irish men's rugby team. The airline has repainted one of its Airbus A320s in a 'Green Spirit' color scheme as the team currently battles in the Six Nations international rugby tournament.

In collaboration with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), the carrier selected one of its fleet of 30 Airbus A320-200s for the special livery, which features images of Irish players Robbie Henshaw, Caelan Doris, Josh van der Flier and Tadhg Furlong. The livery also sports a rugby ball with a shamrock on the tail, along with a decal advertising the carrier as the 'Official Airline of the Irish National Rugby Team'.

In collaboration with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), the carrier selected one of its fleet of 30 Airbus A320-200s for the special livery, which features images of Irish players Robbie Henshaw, Caelan Doris, Josh van der Flier and Tadhg Furlong. The livery also sports a rugby ball with a shamrock on the tail, along with a decal advertising the carrier as the 'Official Airline of the Irish National Rugby Team'.

 Photos Aer Lingus

FLEET - Aer Lingus confirmed as A321neo(XLR) launch operator

Aer Lingus (EI, Dublin International) has been confirmed as the A321-200NY(XLR)'s launch operator, a variant that is now expected to enter into revenue service in the third quarter of 2024.

Msn 11348, which is due to become EI-XLR on delivery, has been painted into the Irish carrier's livery, although with no engines installed just yet. Chief Commercial Officer Adrian Dunne said on social media that "preparations are well underway" for the type's induction.

The Irish subsidiary of IAG International Airlines Group has six A321-200NY(XLR)s on order from Airbus (AIB, Toulouse Blagnac) and plans to deploy them on thinner transatlantic routes that cannot sustain widebody aircraft year-round.

The ch-aviation fleets module shows that Aer Lingus already operates eight A321-200NX(LR)s. However, in contrast to the (LR), which is just a modification of the A321-200NX and does not have a separate type certificate, the (XLR) has been extensively redesigned and has yet to obtain its type certificate.

Aer Lingus also operates thirty A320-200s, four A320-200Ns, three A330-200s, and ten A330-300s.

Airbus has 495 firm orders for the (XLR)s, including 69 from the largest customer, IndiGo Airlines (6E, Delhi International).

Ch Aviation

 

SPECIAL LIVERY - AER LINGUS / A320-200 / EI-DEI - New "Team"

 FPP - Madrid

First A320NEO FOR AER LINGUS (EI-NSB)

 

Ostrava Leos Janacek Airport - LKMT, Czech Republic
By: Radim Koblizka

Aer Lingus transfers its remaining A350 orders

Aer Lingus (EI, Dublin Int'l) has transferred its five remaining orders for A350-900s from Airbus to another undisclosed customer and is no longer set to add the type to its fleet going forward, the manufacturer's order and deliveries data shows.

The Irish carrier initially ordered six A350-900s in 2008, later adding three more units. However, it never took any of the aircraft as the first four A350-900s were delivered to Iberia (IB, Madrid Barajas), a sister carrier also owned by IAG International Airlines Group.

Aer Lingus told ch-aviation it would not be commenting on the development.

The carrier's fleet currently comprises thirty-one A320-200s, three inactive A321-200s, eight A321-200NX(LR)s, three inactive A330-200s, and eleven A330-300s. It has a further six A321-200NX(XLR)s on order from Airbus. Other IAG carriers operating A350 Family aircraft include Iberia with nine -900s in its fleet and a further eleven on order, and British Airways with eight active A350-1000s and a further ten on firm order from the manufacturer.

ch aviation

Step forward for Aer Lingus’ UK-US plans

The Irish airline’s transatlantic route ambitions look set to be realized.
The US Transportation Department (DOT) has granted tentative approval for Irish carrier Aer Lingus
to begin marketing its planned UK-US routes.
The airline applied to the DOT in December to operate transatlantic service from Manchester (MAN) to Boston (BOS), New York John F Kennedy (JFK) and Orlando (MCO) with two Airbus A330-300s and two A321LRs.
A new subsidiary called Aer Lingus (U.K.) Ltd has been set up to fly the routes, but the UK-US flights
will operate under the Aer Lingus name and have the EI designator code.
The DOT has confirmed that “pendente lite exemption” has been given for the International Airlines Group-owned carrier to begin marketing and sales activities in the UK. However, final approval is being deferred until the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issues Aer Lingus (U.K.) with an air
operator’s certificate.
Routes online

AerLingus week of 26APR20 operations

AerLingus since late-March 2020 gradually reduced operations. For the week of 26APR20, the airline is only operating following service.

As the airline’s schedule listing in the GDS and OAG continues to display discrepancies for actual available flight booking, the following operation is based on inventory listing.




Cork – London Heathrow 5 weekly
Dublin – Amsterdam 5 weekly

Dublin – Boston 5 weekly

Dublin – Chicago O’Hare 1 daily

Dublin – Donegal 7 weekly

Dublin – Kerry 13 weekly

Dublin – London Heathrow 18 weekly

Dublin – Manchester 5 weekly

Dublin – New York JFK 1 daily

Dublin – Rome 2 weekly

London Heathrow – Belfast City 5 weekly

AER LINGUS - A320-200 - EI-DEI

FPP - LPPT

AER LINGUS / A330-300 / F-WWCR / msn 1950

Alain Charpentier - TLS

Aer Lingus takes delivery of its first A321LR

Ireland’s national carrier Aer Lingus has taken delivery of its first of eight A321LR aircraft, becoming the first airline in International Airlines Group (IAG) to operate the type. The aircraft on lease from Air Lease Corporation (ALC: NYSE: AL) is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and configured in a two-class layout with 16 business and 168 economy seats.

The Dublin-based carrier will deploy the aircraft on transatlantic routes to the U.S. East Coast.

Aer Lingus currently operates a total of 50 Airbus aircraft, including 13 A330s and 37 A320 Family aircraft. The A321LR and the A330 combined within the same fleet is a powerful lever to cover the needs of the medium to long haul markets.

The A321LR is a member of the A320neo Family, with over 6,600 orders by more than 100 customers. It delivers 30% fuel savings and nearly 50% reduction in noise footprint compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. With a range of up to 4,000 nm (7,400 km) the A321LR is the unrivalled long range route opener, featuring true transatlantic capability and premium wide-body comfort in a single-aisle aircraft cabin.

AerLingus adds A321neo LR Shannon – London service in S20

AerLingus in last week’s schedule update filed additional Airbus A321neo LR service to London Heathrow, where the airline opened reservation for Shannon – London Heathrow route. From 29MAR20, 1 of 3 daily service to be operated by A321neo LR.

EI380 SNN0730 – 0905LHR 32Q D
EI381 LHR0950 – 1120SNN 32Q D

Aer Lingus reveals first brand makeover in 20 years

20 years since its last refresh, Aer Lingus has unveiled a new look logo and livery

AerLingus boosts Portugal capacity in S18

AerLingus in summer 2018 season is expanding capacity to Portugal, including introduction of A321 and A330 service to Lisbon and Faro, respectively.

Dublin – Faro 19MAY18 – 15SEP18 1 of 4 flights on Saturdays operated by A330, replacing A321

EI490 DUB0740 – 1045FAO 330 6
EI491 FAO1155 – 1455DUB 330 6

Dublin – Lisbon eff 25MAR18 4 of 11 weekly service operated by A321, replacing A320

EI486 DUB1850 – 2145LIS 321 x246
EI487 LIS2230 – 0110+1DUB 321 x246

By Jim Liu - Routesonline