Airline passengers can now pay to sit on their own — with a fare that leaves the middle seat free

20th May 2019 | Elizabeth Sasu

HOLIDAYMAKERS who want to stretch out for a nap, avoid crying kids and dodge the battle for the arm-rest can now book two seats on Aer Lingus.

The Irish carrier has launched “AerSpace” as a “premium travel experience” for those who want their own personal space when flying budget.

But the value of “personal space” comes at a cost – tickets cost around three times the price of a standard fare.

And they are not available until after the summer holidays –the first tickets are for September 1, 2019.

Last night the cost of an AerSpace seat from London Heathrow to Dublin on September 8 was £165 one way and as low as £40 for a standard economy ticket.

And it’s not just extra elbow room.

The “delux” tickets mean you can avoid the fight for space in the overhead lockers with an allocated compartment, access to airport lounges, fast-track security, priority boarding and on-board refreshments.

The tickets are for the window and aisle seat in the first row, leaving the cramped middle seat free to stretch out.

Aer Lingus said: “Designed with guests’ needs in mind, AerSpace is a unique offering in Europe.

“It promises a seamless travel experience catering for those who require more space and comfort whether it be for business or leisure.”

Aer Lingus’s most popular short-haul destinations from Dublin are to London, Paris, Manchester and Barcelona.

The airline believes that 25 per cent of passengers travelling between Dublin and London do so for business purposes.

Susanne Carberry, director of network revenue and loyalty at Aer Lingus, said: “We are thrilled to introduce a new fare option which gives greater comfort and convenience to our guests.”

For anyone who really wants peace and quiet onboard – The Sun worked out that to book all 168 seats on an economy fare on one of their Airbus 320s it would cost £6,720.

“We are proud to launch AerSpace in response to feedback from our guests seeking a more premium and spacious travel experience when flying short-haul with Aer Lingus.”

Source: thesun