Aer Lingus is to cut its services from Dublin to London Gatwick from the end of March. The airline has removed the route from its website for flights after the 30th of March. Aer Lingus currently operates at least three daily services on the route and previously operated to Gatwick from Ireland West Airport. The service from Ireland West Airport was switched to London Heathrow last year. In a statement, Aer Lingus said “following a review of route performance” the route will cease operations on the route.
Passengers booked on services after the 30th of March will be contacted by the airline in the coming days and offered alternative arrangements. There have been no additional services announced on the other London services offered by Aer Lingus to Heathrow. Aer Lingus has flown on the Gatwick route since the days of the Vickers Viscounts.
Not long after the news broke, Ryanair’s Head of Communications, Jade Kirwan issued a statement offering to help any affected passengers. “Ryanair yet again saves the day following Aer Lingus’ sudden and surprise closure of its Dublin – Gatwick route from April. We will be happy to welcome the few Aer Lingus passengers on the Gatwick route at Ryanair’s rescue fares starting from just €19.99. Ryanair is Europe’s most reliable and low-fare airline and with up to 8 daily flights on the Dublin – Gatwick routes, all we can say is “slán leat” Aer Lingus. Passengers can book these €19.99 rescue fares on the Dublin – Gatwick route for travel in April and May”
