Overview
- - From 25 February 2026, Aer Lingus will accept only a valid passport or Irish passport card for travel between the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain, ending acceptance of other photo ID.
- - Aer Lingus Regional domestic services remain exempt, covering Belfast–UK routes and the Dublin–Donegal service operated by Emerald Airlines.
- - Ryanair already enforces passport-only rules on Ireland–UK flights, while British Airways still permits recognised photographic ID on some Common Travel Area routes such as London to Dublin.
- - British Airways sells Aer Lingus flights on ba.com, creating a risk that customers may not realise a passport is required when the operating carrier is Aer Lingus.
- - Ferry operators continue to accept alternative photo ID on Irish Sea crossings and there are no routine checks between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, even as Aer Lingus cites operational consistency for its tighter policy.