Many Irish can’t afford to visit Ireland in high summer due to ticket costs

Less competition on North Atlantic route to Ireland has led to much higher fares

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High summer prices for trans-Atlantic airline tickets are making it impossible for Irish emigrants to travel home

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In June, another carrier entered the fray – unofficially.

Discount-airline Ryanair, led by CEO Michael O’Leary, has launched three bids to acquire Ireland’s flag carrier, Aer Lingus. Supporters contend that the acquisition would lower ticket prices, given Ryanair’s tendency for cheap labor and basic accommodations.

“I wouldn’t mind paying a lower fee if it meant a lower standard of service,” says Danny C., an Irish immigrant. “As long as Ryanair can get me there, I’m okay with it. I booked four tickets a few months back, and they cost me $3,600.”

Tommy G., an Irish-American bus driver, agrees. He says, “A lot of people want Ryanair to come in and take over. The fares are just too expensive, and something’s got to change.”

Critics contend that a takeover would negatively affect the airline carrier’s customer relations and Ireland’s tourism and airline industries.

“Social-service roots do not exist in Ryanair,” says Crampton. “Ireland is liable to become a stop rather than a destination.”

Tully adds, “Ryanair may offer low ticket prices, but they make up for it in other fees. If you haven’t done online check-in when you arrive at the airport, they’ll charge you at the front desk.”

Sarah O’Leary, from Co. Kerry, was planning all year to visit Ireland for a long weekend in August to attend her parents' 50th wedding anniversary, but the cost of the flight home to Ireland has prevented her from going.

“I just couldn’t justify spending over a grand on a flight or four grand for myself, my husband and two kids, for a weekend. We work hard for our money and that would be a good chunk out of the little bit of savings we have so I have to send a bunch of flowers, a few dinner vouchers and my apologies,” said O’Leary.

So is there any way to secure a lower price ticket for the summer months? Tully advises that any potential visitor to Ireland “book the tickets as soon as possible” in order to obtain lower ticket prices and to maximize a budget.

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