Aer Lingus has confirmed it has cancelled a portion of its summer flight schedule, citing mandatory aircraft maintenance as the primary reason. The airline stated that the disruption affects roughly 2% of its overall operations, emphasizing that most passengers have been rebooked on alternative same-day services.
Reports had suggested a larger scale of disruption, with the Sunday Independent claiming that more than 500 flights could be impacted. However, the airline described the changes as limited adjustments, noting that its summer schedule is already in operation.
The Irish Travel Agents Association said it has been aware of ongoing cancellations for several weeks. Its chief executive, Clare Dunne, said “Passengers are being rebooked on alternative flights the day before, the day after or offered other change or refunds.” She added that “travel agents are as always working through these changes with their customers to ensure least possible disruption.”
Concerns have also been raised about staffing levels. Mark Tighe, president of the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association, suggested pilot shortages may be contributing to the issue. He said “pilots are frequently being contacted on their days off and asked to work,” and claimed that not all pilots were able to take their full contractual annual leave this year. He also dismissed fuel costs as a factor, stating that “the airline is not suffering from a ‘fuel cost problem’” due to hedging arrangements within its parent group.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien sought to reassure the public about fuel availability, stating “our supplies are robust. We have a 70-day reserve.” He acknowledged rising fuel prices but noted that airlines ultimately make their own operational decisions.
The issue comes amid broader concerns about global fuel supply chains. The The Irish Times has reported that tens of thousands of travellers could face disruption this summer, partly linked to international pressures on jet fuel availability.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that while supply shortages are not expected, pricing could pose challenges. He stated “prices will be a significant issue, I believe, even jet fuel in the short term,” but added that Ireland remains in a stable position overall. He said “we do have 70 days reserves… we’ll be okay in the medium term,” while noting ongoing challenges in the global supply chain.
Aer Lingus reiterated that recent cancellations are primarily maintenance-related, though the situation continues to be monitored closely by both the airline and government officials.
