Aer Lingus was founded by the Irish Government in 1936 to provide air services between the UK and Ireland.

Originally named Aer Loingeas, the name was derived from the Gaelic words which roughly translated as ‘Air Fleet.’

On 27th May 1936, Aer Lingus made its maiden voyage from Baldonnel Aerodrome in Dublin to Bristol (Whitchurch Airfield) in the UK. A six seater De Havilland and Dragon named ‘Lolar’ (Eagle) carried just five passengers across the Irish Sea.

Today the airline carries over 11 million passengers each year to over 70 destinations across Ireland, the UK, Continental Europe and the USA.

Aer Lingus has made a huge contribution to Irish life, connecting Ireland to the world provided opportunities for Irish people to access new horizons both commercially and recreationally. During tough economic times the airline maintained international connectivity and gave the Irish people an outlet to experience the rest of the world, and it also gave the Irish abroad a much-needed connection to home.

Aer Lingus is a company steeped in history. The now world-famous shamrock which adorns the tailfins of the Aer Lingus fleet is one of the most iconic symbols of Ireland around the globe. The airline has a worldwide reputation for caring, friendly staff, a superior quality of service and value for money.

The airline credits its success to the millions of loyal passengers who have travelled with them over the last eight decades, and to current and past employees, who have worked together to keep Aer Lingus flying high for over 80 years. The company's mission is to connect Ireland with the rest of the world, by offering award winning customer service at great value fares.

Operating out of 18 UK airports, Aer Lingus has been the fastest growing airline in the European-North American corridor in the past five years.