Aer Arann: Shannon to Bristol

The carrier: Aer Arann

About

One of Europe's smaller airlines, Aer Arann has been operating flights for Aer Lingus under the brand name “Aer Lingus Regional” since the two airlines entered into partnership in 2010. From March 2012 onwards, all of Aer Arann’s flights have operated under the Aer Lingus Regional guise, with Aer Arann providing aircraft and crew. Aer Lingus, meanwhile, operates all booking and customer services, distributing tickets through AerLingus.com.

The airline’s route map is mostly limited to Ireland and the UK (although there is one destination in France). Aer Arann serves Ireland more comprehensively than any other low-cost carrier. The airline flies to five airports across the Republic of Ireland and an additional 12 around the UK, as well as to Rennes in France.

Of special note, Aer Arann operates a few of the new ATR 72 jets, dubbed "the world's greenest aircraft" for fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. In addition, Arann has a Palme D'Or European regional award for excellence in customer service.

Upside

Good destination tally in Ireland and the UK. Free newspapers are offered on board.

Downside

Only flies to Ireland, the UK and France.

Baggage

• Carry-on: One item up to 7 kg.
• Checked: 20 kg per passenger (for all checked baggage combined).

Depending on which fare-type (low, plus or flex) you purchase, checked baggage must be purchased starting with the first, second or third item. Depending on the season, bag fees range from €15 - €20 (£12- £18) when purchased online and €30 to €35 (£24-£29) when purchased at the airport. For domestic passengers connecting to or from international carriers, Aer Arann will continue to honour the baggage allowance of their connecting airline provided they present their onward itinerary at check-in. A fee of €9/£6 per kilo will be charged to luggage exceeding the 20kg allowance on all flights. Items over 32kg are not permitted.

Please visit Aer Lingus's website for more information on its baggage policy.

Check-in and Ticketing

Tickets for Aer Arann flights must be purchased through AerLingus at AerLingus.com. Online check-in is available on AerLingus.com for most Aer Arann routes. It opens 30 hours prior to the flight and closes two hours before departure. Note that online check-in is for passengers with hand baggage only. Checked baggage is not permitted. At the airport, passengers check in at booths marked for "Aer Lingus Regional."

Seating

You may select seats online at time of booking. If traveling with only carry-on luggage, check in online to save time and avoid long queues.

Departure: Shannon, Ireland (SNN)

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Arrival: Bristol, United Kingdom - Bristol International (BRS)

In addition to serving as a major base for easyJet and Ryanair, Bristol takes quite a bit of charter air traffic. Once we took both the low-cost and the charter activity into account, we realized that Bristol may be one of our most heavily trafficked airports for budget-oriented flyers. Bristol is also southwest England's biggest airport. Location: Bristol International Airport is located 13 km (8 miles) south of Bristol city center. Transport: - Rail: The closest rail connection to Bristol International Airport is at the Bristol Temple Meads station, seven miles away. The Bristol International Flyer express coach service connects from Bristol Temple Meads to the airport every 15 minutes at peak times. For more rail information consult the Official Website. - Bus: Bristol International Flyer bus shuttle runs to the Bristol city center and takes about 30 minutes. First Group also runs a bus service to the airport with many stops en route. For a specific schedule check the company's Official Website. - Taxi: The Checker Cars company provides service at Bristol International Airport. Bookings can be made on their Website. Service: In the airport there are information desks, a few shops and places to grab a bite to eat, as well as a currency exchange. more...