Aer Arann: Sligo to Dublin

The carrier: Aer Arann

About

One of Europe's smaller budget airlines, Aer Arann is first and foremost a regional carrier. Its route map is mostly limited to Ireland and the UK (although there are a few destinations in France). Aer Arann serves Ireland more comprehensively than any other low-cost carrier. The airline flies to seven airports across the Republic of Ireland and an additional 12 around the UK, as well as to Lorient and La Rochelle 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. 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: 15 kg per passenger on domestic flights (within the island of Ireland)

For flights to the UK and France 20 kg are allowed.  There is an €8 or £8 charge per bag if it is booked online or through the Aer Arann call centre. Checked baggage booked on arrival at the departure airport will incur a fee of €12/£12 per bag per flight. 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 €7/£7 per kilo will be charged to all luggage exceeding the new luggage allowance on all flights.

* Please visit Aer Arann’s website for more information on its baggage policy.

Check-in and Ticketing

Online check-in is available for most Aer Arann routes.  It opens 72 hours prior to the flight and closes three hours before departure.  Note that online check-in is for passengers with hand baggage only.  Checked baggage is not permitted.

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: Sligo, Ireland - Collooney (SXL)

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Arrival: Dublin, Ireland (DUB)

In Brief: Dublin Airport is located 10 km (about 6 miles) north of the city. It's a major base for both Aer Lingus and Ryanair, and also handles several Centralwings routes. In terms of sheer numbers, it's one of the most budget airline-friendly airports around. Transportation: Public buses cost between €1.60 and €1.90 to traverse the distance between central Dublin and the airport, depending on how far the journey in question is. Airlink buses, which travel to Dublin's Central Bus Station, cost €6.