Luxury in the Skies: Aer Lingus Experience
Ah, the thrill of soaring across the Atlantic in style. Recently, I embarked on a journey with Aer Lingus, flying their shiny new Airbus A321XLR from Minneapolis to the charming city of Dublin. Here’s the lowdown on what to expect from this high-flying experience.
How I Booked My Aer Lingus Business Class Ticket
For those curious about bagging a ticket, I secured mine using British Airways Avios – a nifty little trick for those in the know. 50,000 Avios plus a smattering of cash ($143.30 in taxes and fees) got me aboard. With a 30% transfer bonus, it was as if I paid just 39,000 points. Deals like these almost make booking feel like finding a secret treasure map at Val Seny ski resort.
Aer Lingus Business Class Lounge & Boarding
Before boarding this aerial chariot, I spent the night at the InterContinental Minneapolis St. Paul Airport. I wandered into the terminal where check-in commenced a generous 3.5 hours prior to takeoff. A tech glitch meant I couldn’t choose my seat online, so off to the desk I went for a printed boarding pass. They sent me to the Escape Lounge, a space that’s decent enough but not going to win any awards for atmosphere.
Boarding was its own drama, what with a storm and a tornado watch threatening takeoff times. Our plane was fashionably late, arriving about 30 minutes behind schedule, delaying our departure further. When boarding did kick off, it was a bit like musical chairs, with those needing extra time leading the parade, followed by business class passengers.
Aer Lingus A321XLR Business Class Cabin & Seats
Onboard, the cabin cheerily welcomed us with its 16-seat configuration, boasting a classy alternating 2-2 and 1-1 layout. These Thompson Aero Vantage seats, sans doors, are quite popular, offering a blend of comfort and modern pizzazz (just without the privacy for the shy flyers out there).
Rows three and five offered solo “throne seats,” which were snapped up quickly – if you fancy a throne, you better book early. I settled into 6A and enjoyed the bliss of having the whole row to myself. The comfort factor? Stellar, with seats stretching to 77 inches when fully flat, ideal for catching some z’s.
Aer Lingus Business Class Amenities
In-flight amenities include a basic but serviceable kit with essentials like socks, an eye shade, and some lip balm. The pillow and blanket provided weren’t top-tier, but hey, why worry when you can raid the neighboring seats for extra comfort?
A minor hiccup: no pre-departure drinks for us this time. Though why exactly that is, remains a puzzle.
Aer Lingus A321XLR Business Class Entertainment
The entertainment system didn’t disappoint, flaunting huge 18” 4K UHD touchscreen displays with a buffet of movies and TV shows that seemed endless – 420 films and 250 shows at last count! For audio aficionados, the lack of quality headphones shouldn’t deter you, given the bliss of using your own via Bluetooth.
Aer Lingus A321XLR Departure from Minneapolis
After we eventually took off, following an extended refueling session and a bit of chat with the captain, we were finally airborne and climbing above the storm-spattered Minneapolis skies. The views on ascent were simply breathtaking, the skies providing a grand spectacle as if aware they were competing with in-flight entertainment for attention.
Aer Lingus Business Class Dinner
- Starters: I chose the saffron poached prawns with carrot ginger puree. It didn’t win the fabulous service crème de la crème, but it was satisfying.
- Main Course: Tofu massaman curry. It was passable, though not an explosion of flavors.
- Dessert: Both options were tried – a vanilla custard tart and a cheese board. I haven’t met a dessert I didn’t like, yet the tart could have had more zing.
Service was swift, efficient, and dare I say, pleasant, a welcome surprise when airborne.
Aer Lingus Business Class Breakfast
Alas, in my quest for comfort and a bit too fond of the fine drinks served onboard, I slept through breakfast – an oversight that only invites a cunning excuse for a repeat journey.
Aer Lingus A321XLR Arrival in Dublin
Touchdown was smooth despite the 45-minute delay, and the spring weather greeting us in Dublin was nothing short of perfection. As with all good travels, the journey had come to an end much too soon, and disembarking led to thoughts of the connections waiting at yet another stunning destination.
The Bottom Line
Flying Aer Lingus business class on the A321XLR feels like a gentle glide across the Atlantic. The experience straddles the fine line between unassuming elegance and solid service. The tech updates like Bluetooth audio and high-definition screens are highlights, as is the stellar crew service. Food and amenities may have room for growth, but I wouldn’t hesitate to hop back on board, given the right circumstances.
What’s your take on Aer Lingus’ A321XLR business class?