Aer Lingus’ news TV advert, entitled “Smart Flies Aer Lingus,” aims to introduces viewers to the many smart, modern travelers who choose Aer Lingus, ranging from families to leisure and business.

The airline has invested almost $2.1 million (€2m) in making the television ad, which moves an iconic and historic brand into the modern day. The ad showcases the innovative customer experience Aer Lingus now offers its guests, yet still retains the rich heritage and warmth that has long been associated with the brand.

It presents the smarter traveling experience highlighting the multiple ways to check-in, including via mobile phone. It also showcases the wide range of inflight entertainment options, as well as the new full lie-flat beds available to Business Class guests on transatlantic flights. Irish actor Chris O’Dowd provides the voiceover for the ad which features a selection of local talent and Aer Lingus staff.

Commenting on the new brand manifesto TV campaign, Mike Rutter, Chief Revenue Officer at Aer Lingus said, “The ad introduces Irish, US, UK and European customers to the concept that Aer Lingus successfully interweaves three key tangible values into a single proposition to customers.

“Firstly Aer Lingus embodies the ability of the Irish over many centuries to find the smart way to both travel the globe and to successfully integrate into the countries they visit or settle in.

“Secondly it draws on Aer Lingus’ near 80 year heritage in reinventing itself to serve the needs of many generations of Irish air travelers.

“Thirdly it brings the brand into a modern context, providing clear proof points to today’s air traveler on why it is the smart choice to fly Aer Lingus. It is the smart choice; because of our low prices, because we serve central airports; because you can pre-clear US customs and immigration on a short stopover in Dublin, because we are the lowest price option between Europe and North America and because we offer service at an affordable price.”

He added, “This follows hot on the heels of the announcement of our sponsorship of the IRFU, making Aer Lingus the official airline of the Irish rugby team. As part of the deal we unveiled an IRFU and player branded aircraft #GreenSpirit – it not only serves to promote Aer Lingus but will spread awareness of Irish rugby throughout the continent. These are all steps towards re-energizing the Aer Lingus brand and the new TV campaign is very much at heart of this.”