free travel pass to dublin airport

Service News

Thu, 10 Aug 23

Reserve your seat with your free travel pass

It's just the ticket to enjoy more!

If you have a Free Travel Pass, remember to use it on the Expressway Network. It’s perfect for connecting with friends and family and doing the things you love.   It's just the ticket to enjoy more!  

There's no better way of exploring what Ireland has to offer than with Expressway and our 14 routes nationwide! You can use your free travel card, on board the coach by simply presenting your free travel card to the driver or you have the option to book online at www.expressway.ie to reserve a seat and get priority boarding for only €2 per trip.  

If you don't want to book online that's ok too as we have ticket machines in stations and travel without a booking is more than welcome provided we have space on board. 

So what are you waiting for?   We can't wait to welcome you on board!

Click here to watch our new Free Travel video

Latest News

Wed, 27 Mar 24

All Together Now

Concert buses to All Together Now

Fri, 22 Mar 24

Eurolines 30% off promotion

Travel to and from the UK at a 30% discount with Expressway Eurolines!

Tue, 21 Nov 23

Eurolines Service Update

Eurolines service update from the week commencing 8th January 2024.

Cookies on citizensinformation.ie

We use cookies to collect information about how you use citizensinformation.ie. This helps us to improve your experience. You can find out more about the cookies we use in our Cookie notice . You can also read our Privacy policy . You can accept all cookies or you can chose which cookies to accept or reject. You can change your cookie preferences at any time by using the My cookie preferences link at the bottom of each page.

Cookie preferences

Cookies used by google analytics.

We use Google Analytics to measure how you use the website so we can improve it. We have configured Google Analytics to anonymise your IP address so that you are not personally identified. We gather information on:

• How you got to the site
• The pages you visit on citizensinformation.ie, and how long you spend on each page
• What you click while you are visiting the site

Free travel in Ireland

What is the free travel scheme, how to use free travel, where can i use free travel, how to qualify for free travel, how to apply for free travel, where to apply for free travel, senior smartpass for travelling in northern ireland.

The Free Travel Scheme allows you to travel, free of charge, on public transport and some private bus and ferry services.

Everyone aged 66 and over, living permanently in Ireland, can get the Free Travel Scheme.

People with disabilities and carers aged under 66 may also qualify for Free Travel.

If you qualify for Free Travel and you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, your partner may travel with you for free if you meet certain criteria (see ‘Spouses, civil partners and cohabitants’ below).

If you can’t travel alone for medical reasons, you may get Free Travel for a companion. This allows a person aged over 16 to travel with you for free.

Changes to the Free Travel Scheme in 2024

From 29 July 2024, you will qualify for the Free Travel Scheme if you are aged over 17 and under 66, and:

• Have never been able to drive due to a disability
• Have a driving licence and are medically certified as ‘not fit to drive’ for at least 12 months.

While the change won’t take effect until July, you can download and fill in an application form for Free Travel for people medically certified unfit to drive (FTM) (pdf) now.

In this case, your spouse, civil partner, or cohabitant cannot accompany you free of charge when travelling.

If you qualify for Free Travel, your Public Services Card (PSC) will have FT (for Free Travel) in the top left-hand corner. The letter following it shows who can travel for free with you:

• FT-P - you can travel for free
• FT+S - your spouse, partner or cohabitant can travel with you for free
• FT+C - you can have a person (over 16) travel with you for free

You must show or scan your Public Services Card to the travel operator when you are travelling on public transport. Find out more about 'How to use your public services card for free travel' .

Paper travel passes are no longer being issued but you can still use your paper pass, if it is valid.

You can use your Free Travel on most Iarnród Éireann , Bus Éireann , Dublin Bus , DART and Luas Services and on certain private bus and ferry services (pdf) .

Free travel is also available on Dublin Bus Nitelink , Go-Ahead Ireland and TFI (Transport for Ireland) Local Link services .

Free travel does not include some special services such as Dublin Bus AIRLINK services .

You can find a full list of services where you can use Free Travel (pdf) on gov.ie.

There are no restrictions on the times you can use your Free Travel.

Living on the Aran Islands or Tory Island

If you are permanently living on any of the Aran Islands, you may get up to 12 single (or 6 return) air trips each year between the islands and Galway City.

People who live permanently on Tory Island (Co. Donegal) are entitled to 8 (or 4 return) free journeys on the seasonal helicopter service operating between the island and Falcarragh on the mainland.

If your public services card includes free travel for a companion, spouse, partner or cohabitant, they can also travel with you for free on the above services.

Going to Northern Ireland

You may also travel free of charge on certain cross-border services between Ireland and Northern Ireland. But to travel free in Northern Ireland, you must have a Senior Smart Pass – see ‘Senior SmartPass for travelling in Northern Ireland’ below.

To get Free Travel you must be living in Ireland and meet one of the following conditions:

• You are aged 66 or over
• You are getting Disability Allowance , Blind Pension , Carer's Allowance or an Invalidity Pension
• You are blind or visually impaired and meet the medical conditions for Blind Pension
• You have been getting Incapacity Supplement or Workmen's Compensation with Disablement Pension for at least 12 months
• You are a specified carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relative's Allowance
• You are getting a social security invalidity payment (or similar payment) from a country covered by EU regulations or from a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement for at least 12 months

Widow or widower or a surviving civil partner

If you are a widow or widower or a surviving civil partner aged 60 or over, living in Ireland and your late spouse or civil partner had Free Travel, you can get Free Travel, if you are getting one of the following payments:

• Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Partner's (Contributory) Pension
• Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Partner's (Non-Contributory) Pension
• One-Parent Family Payment
• Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Partner's Pension under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme
• A similar social security pension or benefit from a country covered by EU regulations or a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement
• You are getting an ordinary Garda widow's pension

Spouses, civil partners and cohabitants

If you are entitled to Free Travel and you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, your partner may be able to travel with you for free.

Your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant cannot travel with you for free, if you are under age 66 and getting Free Travel because you are:

• Getting Carer's Allowance
• The nominated carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relatives Allowance

Your PSC card must have FT-S on it to allow your partner travel with you. To add your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant to your Free Travel - see ‘How to apply for Free Travel’ below.

If you can’t travel alone

If you are unable to travel alone , you can have a person, over 16 years of age, travel with you for free. Your PSC card must have FT-C on it. To add a companion to your Free Travel, see ‘How to apply for Free Travel’ below.

Free travel companion card for children

A child with a visual impairment can get Free Travel for a companion if they are under 18 and they either:

• Satisfy the blindness condition for a Blind Pension, or
• Are registered with Vision Ireland or the National League of the Blind of Ireland

The person they travel with (companion) must be age 16 or over.

Work and Free Travel

You can keep your Free Travel for 5 years, if you moved from one of the following disability payments to work:

• Disability Allowance
• Invalidity Pension
• Partial Capacity Benefit (from Invalidity Pension)
• Disablement Benefit paid along with Incapacity Supplement

You can also keep your Free Travel for 5 years if you transferred from Disability Allowance or Invalidity Pension to a Community Employment , SOLAS or a Back to Work scheme.

If you are aged 66 or over and are getting a State pension, your Public Services Card (PSC) will be issued showing that you have Free Travel automatically.

If you are under 66, you will get Free Travel automatically issued on your PSC if you get one of the following payments:

• Blind Pension
• Carer’s Allowance

If you are married or in a civil partnership, your PSC will be issued with FT-S on it. If you are cohabiting, you must fill in Part 1 and 2 of the Free Travel application form FT1 (pdf) .

If you are not getting one of the payments above but you are eligible for Free Travel, you must fill in the Free Travel application form FT1(pdf) and send to the Free Travel Section in the Department of Social Protection.

If you can’t travel alone and need a companion

If you are unable to travel alone, you can apply for Free Travel for a Companion, using either of the following forms:

• Over 70 Companion pass form (pdf)
• Under 70 Companion pass form (pdf)

You can get an application form for Free Travel from the Department of Social Protection. The form is also available at your local post office and Citizens Information Centre .

Lost or damaged Free Travel pass or PSC

There are currently 2 types of Free Travel Pass:

• A paper Free Travel Pass
• A Public Services Card with Free Travel (with F-T written in the top left-hand corner)

Paper passes are no longer being issued so if you need a replacement for a lost or damaged paper pass, you must undergo SAFE registration and get a Public Services Card .

If your Public Services Card Free Travel is lost, stolen or damaged, you should telephone 0818 837 000 to request a replacement card.

Free Travel

Social Welfare Services College Road Sligo Ireland

If you are 66 or over and have Free Travel, you can travel free of charge on all bus and rail services within Northern Ireland using a Senior SmartPass card.

If you are 66 or over and have Free Travel, you do not need to meet the residency condition in Northern Ireland to apply for a Senior SmartPass card.

How to apply for a Senior SmartPass

To get a Senior SmartPass, you must fill in an application form (FTNI1). You can get this form from your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office. It is not possible to get this form online .

You should not use a photocopy of the form as each form is barcoded. The application form must be filled in with black ink only and returned in person (not posted) to your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.

You must bring each of the following items with your application form to your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office:

• Your Irish Free Travel pass/Public Services Card
• Proof of your address, (for example, a gas, electricity, phone bill or bank statement)
• Proof of your identity, (for example, your driving licence, passport or another form of photo identification)
• A recent passport standard colour photograph

It may take up to 6 weeks to process your application. There is further information on the extension of the Free Travel Scheme .

Travelling with a partner or companion

A spouse, civil partner, cohabitant or companion cannot travel with you for free on public transport within Northern Ireland.

However, your Irish Free Travel allows your spouse, civil partner, cohabitant or companion to travel for free on certain cross-border services between Ireland and Northern Ireland. For example, a cross-border train journey that starts in Ireland and ends in Northern Ireland or vice versa.

Renewing and replacing a Senior SmartPass

Your Senior SmartPass will expire after 5 years.

• If you have electronically used your card within the last 2 years, you will get a new card automatically in the post from Translink when your card expires.
• If you have not used your card in the last 2 years, you will be sent a renewal application form to fill in. The renewal form is not the same as a first-time application and you do not need to supply a photograph.
• If you have never used your card, you will not hear from Translink at all. If you wish to get it renewed, you must contact Translink by email at [email protected] , or telephone 00 44 289 075 9129 or 028 90 66 66 30 and they will send you a renewal application.

If you lose or need to replace your Senior SmartPass for travel in Northern Ireland, you can fill in form (FTNI 2) (pdf) .

Brexit and the Senior SmartPass

On 31 January 2020 the UK exited the EU . Senior SmartPass holders can continue to travel in Northern Ireland on the bus and train.

Related documents

• Tax-free purchases for non-EU travellers The Retail Export Scheme, allows visitors to Ireland (from outside the European Union) to buy goods in Ireland to take home with them and benefit from tax relief. 2877.0942
• Customs regulations for travellers to Ireland Find out about the important rules in place regarding customs regulations for people travelling to Ireland. 2634.451
• Travelling from Ireland for healthcare in Europe Introduction to the options for Irish residents who want to access healthcare in other countries in Europe. 2555.332

If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .

Manage cookie preferences

Who is eligible for this ticket?

• Customers in possession of a valid open class ticket

What are the conditions of travel?

Customers who are already in possession of or purchasing on the day of travel a valid standard class ticket(s) such as Family Ticket, Day Return, Open Return, Weekly, Monthly, Annual or InterRail ticket can book on their chosen service by selecting the 'Reservation Only' option in the Passenger selection box. Customers are advised there is limited availability for seat only bookings online.

How do I buy this ticket? 

• Read our FAQ on how to book a seat only reservation .

Where can I buy this ticket? 

• You can purchase the ticket  above using our journey planner . Tickets can only be purchased up to 90 days in advance.

Where do I collect the ticket? 

See our  Ticket Collection  section.

• Free Travel/DSFA Pass Holders

Customers who hold a  Free Travel / DSFA Pass  can book on their chosen service by selecting the  'Free Travel Pass'  option in the Passenger selection box. Customers are advised there is limited availability for Free Travel bookings online.

• Please see our handy guide on how to book a 'Free Travel Pass' option .
• You can purchase the ticket  above using our Journey Planner . Tickets can only be purchased up to 90 days in advance.
• An allocation of bookings on all InterCity services can be reserved online without a fee for 'Free Travel Pass or valid ticket holders'. When this allocation is fully booked, all remaining seats can be reserved by 'Free Travel Pass or valid ticket holders' for €2.50 per journey. 

For more information on Online Tickets please see Ticket Information

There are a limited number of wheelchair accessible spaces on each train, book in advance to avoid disappointment.

passenger-seat icon Travel Pass or Travel Ticket holder

Is an option for customers who are in possession of Free Travel Pass, a valid standard class ticket(s), seasonal ticket(s), Taxsaver ticket(s) or InterRail to book onto a train in standard class. Customers who have a valid standard class ticket but wish to upgrade to First Class should also use this selection. For more information go to Tickets Explained section.

Please select the passenger(s) who require this ticket type

Dublin Airport Express

Customers travelling through Dublin’s Heuston station can now book onward travel to Dublin Airport when buying their rail ticket on irishrail.ie.  Prices for the Dublin Airport Express services start at €8. You will get a guaranteed seat and a comfortable luggage allowance. Making your trip to Dublin Airport seamless. 

Bus stops include Dublin Heuston Station, George's Quay (Tara Street Station) Custom House Quay, Eden Quay, Ormond Quay Upper, Arran Quay, Usher and Merchant's Quay, Wellington Quay, Aston Quay, Harcourt Luas, Merrion Square, Pearse Station (drop off only from airport) Trinity College, North Wall Quay, 3Arena. 

Services begin at 04:35 and run regularly through out the day Monday - Sunday, so you won't have to wait too long for your connecting bus. 

For a full list of services and to plan your journey, please visit the Dublin Express website here.

How to book online

When purchasing your rail ticket simply navigate the 'Extras Page' and if available select either a Single or Return 'Dublin Express Add-on'.

Dublin Airport Stops

Dublin airport t1 (dub).

The pick up and drop off stop for Terminal 1 is located in the same place outside the Terminal 1 Arrivals building. When exiting the terminal building turn left to find the stop.

Dublin Airport T2 (DUB)

The pick up stop for services to Dublin City is located in Zone 21 outside the Terminal 2 building. When exiting from arrivals, cross the glass walkway, turn left and go down the escalator.

Terms and Conditions

• You must show a printed copy your Iarnród Éireann Booking Confirmation which includes the Dublin Express add-on to the coach driver when boarding the coach
• Your Dublin Express add-on ticket is valid for 24 hours on the date specified
• Your Dublin Express add-on ticket is for travel on the next available service. It does not guarantee you a seat at a specific departure time
• All passengers must be at the departure point 10 minutes prior to the departure of the coach
• When traveling to airports please allow 180 minutes between coach arrival and flight departure time
• You are allowed 1 piece of soft hand luggage with an addition of 2 medium cases (70cm x 30cm x 45cm, max 20kg each) or 1 large case (75cm x 50cm x 32cm, max 20kg). Excess luggage fees may apply

Previous Offer

Take the train to support your county, the royal canal greenway.

• Money-saving tips

Leap Visitor Card

The Leap Visitor Card is a handy Dublin transport pass for tourists that wish to use the city’s public transportation frequently.

The Leap Visitor Card offers unlimited journeys on the following means of transport: Airlink (bus that connects the airport and city centre), Dublin Bus, Luas, DART and Commuter Rail during the validity of the pass.

 Leap Visitor Card Price

There are three different cards : 24-hour ( € 8 ( US$ 8.60)), 72-hour ( € 16 ( US$ 17.30)) and seven days ( € 32 ( US$ 34.50)).

The card is activated the first time it is used.

Where to buy the Leap Visitor Card?

You can purchase the Leap Visitor Card online or in Dublin. The best option is to get it as soon as you land, at Dublin Airport , so you can use it to get to the city centre . If you prefer to wait a few days, you can also purchase the pass at the  Dublin Bus station , 59 Upper O’Connell St.

Once you purchase the card, you can top up your card and extend its period of validity (1, 3 or 7 days) up to five times at any of the 650 Leap outlets in the country.

Where is it valid?

The transport card may be used on most means of transportation in Dublin , including Airlink airport buses 747 and 757, all the Dublin buses , Luas trams and the DART trains.

You may also be interested in

Dublin Pass

The Dublin Pass offers free access to over 30 of the city’s top attractions. It also includes a ticket for the Dublin sightseeing bus, as well as discounts at many stores and restaurants.

Dublin has dozens of shopping streets packed with national and international clothing brands, luxury boutiques or vintage shops to cater for all the tastes.

Children (up to 12yrs)

Travel Pass

Latest news

Book online for lower fares" "Tallaght from €9.99, Maynooth from €14.95

Routes served

How it works.

Search trips

Inter locations and date of travel.

Choose trip & seats

Choose required seats from trip.

Pay & confirmation

Pay and get your ticket in SMS, Email.

Reliable journey

Show ticket and enjoy the journey.

Why book with us?

Comfortable coaches

Bus tracker

Manage my booking

24/7 To help

Tallaght - Airport

Airport - Tallaght

Maynooth - Airport

Airport - Maynooth

Our gallery

Dublin Airport Bus

Best regards and welcome to Airport Hopper . Every journey brings suffering. To remove this hassle and worry we have brought Dublin Airport Bus Service. This bus service can be a useful companion on your way to and from Dublin Airport. Our bus service is capable of fulfilling the duty of making you travel safely. So plan your trip. Our Dublin airport bus service is there to provide maximum assistance during your travel.

Why Choose Our Dublin Airport Bus Service?

Traveling is a very stressful job. Not everyone can take this pressure. For this many people don't like traveling. So you can use our bus service for stress-free and comfortable travel . The exact reasons for this are discussed below.

Convenience: While traveling, you have to face the hassle of jostling with heavy luggage and vehicle rental. Our bus service ensures you this convenience. Our buses will take you to the airport terminal safely from the departure point of your choice.

Comfort: You can travel with complete comfort in our modern air-conditioned buses. Here you have good seating arrangements. With plenty of space for your luggage on this bus, your journey will be as enjoyable as the destination.

Trustworthiness: We pride ourselves on our punctuality. Our bus service will ensure that you never miss your flight. Trust us to get you to the airport on time every time.

Affordable: Our Dublin airport bus service fee is not costly. So save your money for your vacation and choose our service for your sleep.

Imagine it as you sit back and take in the beautiful views of Dublin. Rest assured you will arrive at the airport in peace. So prepare for a comfortable flight. No traffic jams and no hassles can disturb your journey.

Our drivers are friendly and professional. They are always ready to help with your luggage or answer any questions you may have. We understand that every limit is worth a lot. Because you are catching a flight. That's why we ensure a fast and efficient service every time

Use Our App To Get 20% Discount

We bring a mobile-friendly app to your fingertips. Using this app you can enjoy our Dublin Airport bus service. If you use our service through the app, you will get a 20% discount . So download and use our app now to get a 20% discount on every payment. Happy Journey!

Easy Booking

Booking your ride with Airport Hopper is now much easier. Visit our website . Choose your pick-up location. Then select your preferred time. Prepare for the trip. Our alternative payment facility will make your travel even easier.

Popular Road

Our Dublin Airport bus service covers many popular routes like Maynooth-Tallaght-Dublin Airport. So no matter where your location is, we will have no problem finding you. Because we have service on all those routes, visit our website for a complete list of routes and timetables and enjoy a 20% discount on your first booking.

Safe and Secure

Your safety is our top priority. Our buses are regularly maintained. It will meet your highest security standards. Keeping in mind the latest health risks, we thoroughly clean and disinfect our tigers. You can travel with peace of mind knowing your health and safety are in good hands.

Special Offer

We love to offer our customers. Keep an eye on our website for special promotions and discounts. Be it holidays or seasonal offers you can always find a great bargain with Airport Hopper .

Plan your trip: Traveling was not easy in earlier times. That's why we bring you our Dublin airport bus service. Here you can enjoy maximum benefits. Some tips are discussed below:

View Schedule: Visit our website and check the latest bus schedule. Select the bus service according to your travel time.

Arrive early: Arrive at your pick-up location a few minutes early to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

Smart Luggage Pack: Our buses have enough space to store your luggage. So pack your luggage very well and efficiently. Keep essentials in a carry-on bag for easy access.

Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for real-time updates and travel tips. We love to stay connected with our passengers. Get In Touch

Customer Service

Do you have any questions or need any help? Our customer service team is always ready to help. Contact us through our website or give us a call. We are always ready and happy to assist you with your travel needs.

Finally, there is no need to worry about getting to Dublin Airport. With Airport Hawker you can get a convenient comfortable and affordable airport bus service. Book your ticket today and enjoy the travel service. We are eager to give you all the joy and smoothest journey possible.

Thank you for choosing Airport Hopper. May your journey be blessed and joyful!

Booking bus tickets is now smarter

Introducing our first bus ticket app. Save your time and effort by booking your bus tickets online

Available now

Select one option to receive OTP

Need OTP verification to login

The seats reserved in your session have been removed because the reservation time of 0:00 minutes was up

Your seats reservation will be removed if you will reload and it might book for you another seats.

Terms and conditions

Aircoach makes all reasonable efforts to ensure that the contents of this website are accurate and up to date, but cannot accept responsibility for omissions, errors or subsequent changes.

Aircoach, including its agents, employees, or contractors may not be held responsible for any loss occurring from its use, howsoever caused.

All Online Bookings must be made at least 1 hour before departure time.

Aircoach Journey Times

Estimated journey times are provided as a guide only and may change due to traffic conditions and other circumstances outside our control. If travelling to Dublin Airport or Belfast International Airport, it is important to allow enough time between the coach arrival time at the airport and the departure flight check-in time. We would recommend at least one hour extra on your journey to allow for unforeseen circumstances, but more time may be required. Check with your airlines for check in times and the  Dublin Airport website  or  Belfast International Airport  for information on Covid rules at the airport.

Conditions of Carriage

• "Adult" means any person 14 years of age and over;
• "Aircoach" means the company which operates the Aircoach coach service;
• "baggage" means any item of luggage accompanied by a passenger on the coach or carried on behalf of the passenger in the luggage compartment of the coach;
• "carriage" means transportation of passengers and baggage by coach to a point of destination of the coach, listed on the timetable, in return for payment of the due fare;
• "coach" means the Aircoach coach;
• "fare" means the current price of a ticket;
• passenger" means a person to whom a ticket is issued for carriage on the coach;
• “ticket” means the ticket issued to passengers for carriage on the coach.
• "cashless" means that a ticket cannot be purchased on board with cash.  The ticket can only be purchased using contactless payment– for example contactless debit/credit cards, google pay or apple pay.
• The correct fare must be paid at the time of booking online or at the time of purchasing on the mobile App or from the driver / Aircoach agent on boarding the coach. The 705X service is a cashless route - payment on board the bus is via contacless only. Entry to the coach may be refused if the appropriate fare has not been paid or the ticket has expired. 
• Children aged 4-13 years inclusive are charged the relevant child fare.
• Aircoach reserves the right to change the price of any type of ticket on any given route, at any given time.
• All times on our timetable are dependent on traffic, road and weather conditions at time of travel.
• Two infants aged 0-3 years inclusive, accompanied by an adult fare-paying passenger, will be carried free of charge, infants must be seated on the fare paying adults lap. Any additional infants accompanied by the same adult will be charged at child fares.
• You may be required to provide proof of age to avail of infant and child discounts if so requested by the driver.
• Please note, we cannot carry children 13 years or younger unless accompanied by an adult.
• Baggage is carried at the passenger’s risk. Aircoach will use its best endeavours to carry the baggage safely and securely but assumes no liability for any loss or damage to baggage while in its possession, nor any consequences arising from the loss of or damage to baggage. We recommend that customers take out travel insurance that covers the whole of your journey.
• High value large items of baggage - if you wish to carry such items on board, please contact customer service to make arrangements prior to travel, if the item is approved for travel on board, an additional seat will need to be purchased for the journey.
• Please be aware, if multiple passengers have been booked to travel on the same booking, they can not individually change bookings to another time. The whole party may change if Flexibook has been included in your booking. However, individuals as part of the booking can not change their journey. 
• Aircoach allows a maximum of two pieces of luggage per person free of charge to be carried in the luggage compartment of the coach. For additional bags / suitcases and large bulky items (like musical instruments, sporting equipment etc) there will be a charge of €5.00/£5.00 per piece per trip. The driver will decide if the piece of luggage is permitted in the hold and will collect the fee.
• Small bags which can be stored in the overhead rack or on your lap may be carried on board the coach. Bags cannot occupy seats on the coach.
• Due to company health and safety protocols, drivers are not obliged to assist passengers with the lifting of or moving of luggage. They will of course endeavour to assist passengers where possible, please request assistance from your driver if required. 
• Aircoach undertakes to use its best endeavours to carry passengers and baggage with reasonable dispatch. Times shown on Aircoach timetables are not guaranteed, and Aircoach assumes no responsibility for conveying passengers within any particular time period, nor for making flight connections. Aircoach may, without notice, alter or omit destination points shown on the ticket in case of necessity. Schedules are subject to change, without notice.
• E-bicycles and E-scooters must have their battery removed prior to placing them in the hold.
• Smoking, Vaping, the consumption of Alcohol and hot food is prohibited on all coaches.
• Alcohol must be stored in the luggage compartment of the coach.
• Water, Soft drinks and Tea/Coffee to be consumed on board must have a secure lid or cap.
• All seats on the coaches are provided with seat belts. Passengers are advised that seat belts must be worn for their own safety.
• Guide dogs and Assistance dogs accompanying passengers are permitted to travel on all Aircoach services free of charge. A doctors note is required for those travelling with an assistance dog. Apart from the foregoing exceptions, dogs, cats or any other animals or live fowl of any description will not be carried.
• Aircoach reserve the right to refuse to board or remove passengers from a service if they are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.  Intoxicated, unruly or passengers engaging in nuisance or anti-social behaviour will be removed from the coach or the service will pause pending the arrival of the appropriate authorities if required. 
• Aircoach reserves the right to refuse admission to the coach where it deems this necessary in the interests of safety.
• Passengers are requested not to cause any nuisance to their fellow passengers and at all times to follow the directions of the driver of the coach. Aircoach reserves the right to remove from the coach any passengers causing a disturbance or nuisance on the coach.
• In the interest of hygiene, we would ask all customers to take all rubbish with you when you exit the coach.
• No agent, employee or representative of Aircoach has authority to modify, alter or waive any provision of these terms and conditions.

Ticket Validity of Walk Up or On Bus fares (bought from the driver or at the airport kiosk)

• Tickets purchased on the coach or from our Customer Service Team at Dublin Airport are valid on the journey for which they are purchased or, if purchased from our Customer Service Team at Dublin Airport, on the next departure from the Airport. You can use the return portion of your ticket on any return journey, on the same route, up to a period of  6 months  after the outward journey date. Your return seat is not guaranteed however and is subject to availability.
• Single and Return Tickets are non- refundable, unless the Flexibook Plus add-on has been purchased with the ticket.
• The 705X route is a cashless route - payment on board the bus is via contacless only. 

Ticket Validity of Online fares (bought on the website,  www.aircoach.ie )

For all online bookings, customers should be present at the appropriate stop, and make themselves known to the driver, at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a timely departure. If the customer does not present themselves in good time their seat reservation cannot be guaranteed and may be made available to walk up customers. 

Online and app bookings may be purchased up to 1 hour before the departure of the coach  from the first departure point on that journey  and not the time of departure for subsequent stops on that service.

• Online Single Tickets booked online are valid for travel on the selected departure time on your chosen route, on the date specified on your booking.
• Online Return Tickets booked online are valid for specific time, route and date of the outward portion of the ticket (i.e.. the first journey on the ticket). The return portion of the ticket is valid for travel on the selected departure time on your chosen route, on the date specified on your booking.
• If a flight is delayed  into Dublin or Belfast International airports, passengers travelling onwards from both Airports will be allowed to travel  within 24 hours  of the original scheduled time on their Aircoach ticket, subject to availability.  In all other cases, customers will be required to purchase a new ticket and claim from their airline/travel insurance for refunds of any unused tickets. 
• The Flexibook add-on can be purchased for single and return tickets booked online or on the app. Purchase of a Flexibook add-on gives the person booking the ticket the ability to change their booking by logging on to their Aircoach account. Bookings can be changed 30 calendar days either side of the date of travel free of charge once the flexi fare has been paid at the time of booking. Flexibook fares cannot be purchased as a separate product. Changes can only be made to the date and time and not to a different route or stop. Customers can change their booking as many times as they wish if the change is made at least 1 hour before the time of the unwanted departure. Changes can be made up to  1 hour  before the original journey departure time (e.g. if you wish to change from a stop midway through a service – the window for changes is one hour prior to the first stop on that route and not the time of departure for subsequent stops on that service).  The booking cannot be changed within 1 hour of departure or when the original time booked has passed. When changing a booking, if the journey that the customer is moving their booking to is more expensive than the original fare, the customer will be required to pay the difference between the two fares.  All changes are subject to availability on your required journey.  For information on how to use Flexibook - please see  HERE .
• The Flexibook Plus add-on can be purchased for single and return tickets booked online or on the app. Purchase of a Flexibook add-on gives the person booking the ticket the ability to change their booking or cancel their booking and avail of a refund by logging on to their Aircoach account. Bookings can be changed 30 calendar days either side of the date of travel free of charge once the Flexibook Plus fare has been paid at the time of booking. Flexibook Plus fares cannot be purchased as a separate product. Changes can only be made to the date and time and not to a different route or stop. Customers can change their booking as many times as they wish if the change is made at least 1 hour before the time of the unwanted departure. Changes can be made up to  1 hour  before the original journey departure time (e.g. if you wish to change from a stop midway through a service – the window for changes is one hour prior to the first stop on that route and not the time of departure for subsequent stops on that service).  The booking cannot be changed within 1 hour of departure or when the original time booked has passed. When changing a booking, if the journey that the customer is moving their booking to is more expensive than the original fare, the customer will be required to pay the difference between the two fares.  All changes are subject to availability on your required journey.  In the case of customer requesting a refund, the customer will be refunded the price they paid for the ticket.
• Customers who have not purchased the Flexibook or Flexibook Plus option , can change their booking within 48 hours of ticket purchase by calling our customer services team.  Any changes required outside of this 48 hour period will require a new ticket to be purchased.
• Goods and services sold through digital, tv, mail order are subject to The Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000. Under clause 6(2)(b) of the regulation states that  the regulations do  not  apply to contracts for the  provision of transport.  As such the 14 day cooling off period does not apply to Aircoach tickets.

Ticket Validity of Mobile App fares

• Tickets (single and return) purchased on the App are valid on the journey for which they are purchased. 
• The Aircoach app allows multiple ticket purchases. On boarding the coach, a QR will need to be presented and scanned per person travelling.
• All Mobile App Tickets are non-refundable, unless Flexibook Plus has been purchased.
• The Flexibook or Flexibook Plus Add On allows you to change the date and/or time of departure on the route you have booked up to 30 days either side of your original booking. Changes must be made one hour  before  the date and time of travel in the original booking. 

Ticket Refunds

• Tickets are non- refundable as per the T&Cs agreed when purchasing a ticket online, unless the Flexibook Plus add-on has been purchased. Refunds will only be given if Aircoach has not provided the service booked. Please include your correct Booking Reference in all correspondence to  [email protected] .
• Refunds are not permitted due to a positive Covid Test unless the Flexibook Plus add-on has been purchased. If you have purchased FlexiBook you can move your travel date.  
• Refunds of Aircoach tickets does not apply when Flights or Concerts etc are cancelled unless the Flexibook Plus add-on has been purchased.
• All Mobile App Tickets are non-refundable unless the Flexibook Plus add-on has been purchased. 
• Goods and services sold through digital, tv, mail order are subject to The Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000. Under clause 6(2)(b) of the regulation states that the regulations do  not  apply to contracts for the  provision of transport.  As such the 14-day cooling off period does not apply to Aircoach tickets.
• Contact our customer services team via email at  [email protected]  for any queries. 

Free Travel Pass

Free Travel Passes are accepted on a space available basis for all routes except the 705X Derry/London Derry & Belfast City. Seat reservation is available online and on the Aircoach App for Free Travel Pass holders. 

Links to other Websites

Links are provided for information and convenience only. We cannot accept responsibility for the sites linked to, or the information found there. A link does not imply an endorsement of a site; likewise, not linking to a particular site does not imply lack of endorsement.

Indemnification

You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold Aircoach harmless from and against any and all claims, damages, costs including legal fees, arising from or related to your use of this website.

What our customers say

4.14 Average 17720 Reviews

I got a ticket of the nicest guy Adam yesterday while travelling on the 700 he was very good at what he was doing and our driver who I did n...

Excellent service!

Got the bus from killiney 8.55 Monday 17/6-24. Had the nicest chauffeur and a very pleasant trip to the airport.

I’m not sure if I’m posting in the right place as this was about a trip from Birmingham to Leicester via aircoach, but the return journe...

Good prestation

Amazing customer service for a very distracted customer. Great support when we realised we left a bag on coach. Patience, kindness and clari...

I have previously used Aircoach on many occasions using the Dublin to Belfast route. On Monday past, 3/06/2024 o travelled on the 3pm bus f...

We took your aircoach from Monkstown, Dublin to the airport yesterday morning, May, 28th 2024. Our lady driver, Lisa was so cheerful and...

I am more than happy to praise your driver, David Kane, who brought us safely home from Dublin Airport on Wed 15th May around 7.30pm (very a...

Customer service, price and comfort were all fabulous. However, I want to add that none of the plug sockets or USBs were operational which f...

Today I took the Aircoach to Dublin airport. The lady driver was incredible. She had conversation with everyone getting on the bus. She way ...

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting one of your staff,John Mc Leish. I was dropping my grandaughter off for a late bus to Sydenham airport f...

At the end of April 2024, I took the 705x Express coach from Belfast to Dublin Airport which departs around 5pm and arrives around 7pm. The ...

Bought a return ticket from the airport. Ride to downtown was good but when we tried taking the bus this morning it arrived very late and si...

Very comfortable and easy drivers.

I would like to compliment you on the quality of your wonderful staff, particularly Aisling B, the young gentleman who was working with her ...

28, April, 2024 705x coach from Belfast to Dublin airport. Being visitors to Ireland, things are at times confusing, but everyone from info...

Mostly I used air coach for travel in Dublin. I am very happy with this device. Easy to booking good customer service.

Alex (aircoach 700) was an excellent driver, very nice and helpful. Thanks a mill!

Great service, very punctual and quite realisable, honestly other public transport services are frustrating but I’ve never come across a b...

Martin was very friendly and accommodating. You never get this from bus drivers usually! (Dublin airport to Belfast)

Book your seats today to take advantage of our great offers. Book Now

Sign In/Register

Not registered yet , email tickets.

• Limerick Live

https://www.limerickleader.ie/section/1195/advertise-with-us

• Advertise With Us
• Sponsored Content
• Camera Club
• National News
• Pictures & Videos
• Send Us Your News
• St Patrick's Day
• GAA Preview

21 Jun 2024

Bringing you live local breaking news, sport, politics, weather & more in Limerick and County Limerick

All the latest breaking local news from Limerick and County Limerick

Keep up to date with the latest sports news

Up to the minute national and local election coverage

Read all the latest Irish news and updates from around Ireland

Find whats happening in and around Limerick and County Limerick

Enjoy our award winning photos and picture galleries taken in Limerick and County Limerick

Catch up on all the latest business news in Limerick and County Limerick

Read about the latest properties available in Limerick and County Limerick

Enjoy our latest and up to date motoring review and news in Limerick and County Limerick

Limerick and County Limerick Met Eireann Weather Forecast

Recent death notices and obituaries from Limerick and County Limerick

We need your support!

Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist.

If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter .

Support our mission and join our community now.

Subscribe Today!

To continue reading this article, you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles!

Alternatively, you can pay €0.50 per article, capped at €1 per day.

Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism!

• You are in:
• Limerickleader

Eireagle.com coach service from Limerick to Dublin Airport to accept free travel pass

The Eireagle.com coach service from Limerick to Dublin Airport is to accept the free travel pass

30 Apr 2018 4:13 PM

LIMERICK'S only direct coach service from Limerick to Dublin Airport has announced that it is to accept the free travel pass.

Eireagle.com has confirmed that, as of this Tuesday, May 1, it will be accepting the free travel pass.

The service has been operating a direct Limerick to Dublin Airport service for four years and in March increased its departures from 16 to 20 services daily.

David Conway, general manager of Irish Citylink and eireagle.com, said the news would be to the delight of the many free travel pass holders throughout Limerick and the country who will be eligible to avail of this newly available service.

"In response to customer feedback, I am delighted to announce that from May 1, Citylink and eireagle.com will be accepting the Free Travel Pass on our services," he said.

"This I am sure will be welcome news for our existing and new customers," he added.

Eireagle.com’s luxury coaches come with Wi-Fi, onboard toilet, Plugs, A/C and reclining seats with ample leg room. Eireagle’s direct Limerick to Dublin Airport service departs from Arthurs Quay in the city and the Hurlers in Castletroy.

For more, see  eireagle.com .

To continue reading this article, please subscribe and support local journalism!

Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles.

To continue reading this article for FREE, please kindly register and/or log in.

Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites. You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news!

Most Popular

Crime and Courts

'This is not justice': Limerick woman's anger as soldier who 'viciously' attacked her gets suspended sentence

Barry Lunn | Courtesy of X

From school dropout to CEO of multimillion company - Limerick native shares success story

The late Monica Reid

Rose of Tralee contestant found dead was recently engaged and house hunting with fiancé

Pictures & Videos

Throwback Thursday: Pictures from the Limerick Leader archives

Woman in her 60s dies at dublin airport after arriving on ryanair flight, online gp consultation and prescriptions by get health care — the new wave for telehealth services in ireland, the legendary charleville agricultural show returns this june 2024.

The Vhi 360 Health Clinic Centre in Raheen Business Park is open to all Vhi members from 8am to 9pm seven days a week

Vhi 360 Health Centre in Limerick provides urgent care for minor injury and illnesses

Limerick care facility in bruree celebrates 21 years of outstanding care, university concert hall announces inaugural limerick summer proms with three day celebration.

Limerick Sport

PICTURES: Enjoying round two of the Time Greyhound Nutrition A4 Derby in Limerick

Courtesy of Daft.ie

PICTURES: Cosy and unique cottage in Limerick goes on sale for just under €200k

Columns/Opinion

What amenities would you like to see in the city? Limerick Live hits the streets to find out

Watch: na piarsaigh hurling manager shane o'neill reacts to county senior league final victory.

We've got Donegal Covered...

Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie

Buy a paper

Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles.

Get the news

Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm.

• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy

Iconic Digital Titles

• Carlow Live
• Donegal Live
• Éire Bheo
• Ireland Live
• Kildare Live
• Kildare Now
• Kilkenny Live
• Leitrim Live
• Letterkenny Live
• Longford Live
• Nenagh Live
• Offaly Live
• Tipperary Live
• Waterford Live

Iconic Print Titles

• Clonmel Nationalist
• County Derry Post
• Donegal Democrat
• Donegal Post
• Dundalk Democrat
• Homes in Donegal
• Inish Times
• Kilkenny People
• Leinster Express
• Leinster Leader
• Leitrim Observer
• Limerick Leader
• Longford Leader
• Midland Tribune
• Tipperary Star
• Tullamore Tribune

This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: [email protected].

Tickets & Fares

Fare Classes

Child online tickets.

Cork - Limerick Express Child

Book online and save

Galway - Cork Express Child

Galway - Dublin Airport Child

Galway - Dublin Airport Eireagle Child

Galway - Dublin City Child

Limerick - Dublin Airport Child

Family online tickets.

Galway - Cork Express Family

Galway - Dublin Airport Eireagle Family

Galway - Dublin Airport Family

Galway - Dublin City Family

Limerick - Dublin Airport Family

Leap online tickets.

Cork - Limerick Express YAC

Galway - Cork Express YAC

Galway - Dublin Airport Eireagle YAC

Galway - Dublin Airport YAC/Student Leap

Galway - Dublin City YAC

Limerick - Dublin Airport YAC

Standard online tickets.

Cork - Limerick Express Standard

Galway - Cork Express Standard

Galway - Dublin Airport Eireagle Standard

Galway - Dublin Airport Standard

Galway - Dublin City Standard

Limerick - Dublin Airport Standard

Child onboard tickets.

Buy onboard our coach services

Family Onboard Tickets

Leap onboard tickets, standard onboard tickets.

Purchasing tickets

• Online at www.citylink.ie. This option guarantees your seat.
• Standby tickets can be purchased directly from the coach driver by paying cash or card.
• By coming into the Citylink Ticket Office located at 17 Forster Street, Galway, or from our Ticket Agents.

Online Tickets

Onboard tickets, single ticket.

A one-way ticket is valid for just one journey, as printed on ticket

Find out more

Day Return Ticket

A day return ticket is valid for one outward journey on date of issue and one return journey on the …

Monthly Return Ticket

A Monthly Return Ticket is valid for one outward journey on date of issue, and for one return journe…

10 Journey Ticket

A 10 Journey Ticket can be purchased on board the coach or in our office and is valid for one month …

Family Ticket

We offer Family Tickets on our express services which makes travelling as a family very affordable a…

Tax Saver Ticket

Tax Saver Commuter Tickets are available on all our services and can be purchased by contacting our …

Standard fares apply to all passengers above the age of 18 who are not eligible for a Young Adult/St…

Young Adult/Student Leap Card

Young Adults or Students with a valid Young Adult or Student Leap Card from TFI, can enjoy significa…

All children/teens aged 4 to 18 years inclusive can benefit from our great value child fares. Please…

One infant aged 0-2 years inclusive, accompanied by an adult fare-paying passenger, will be carried …

Free Travel Pass

We accept the Department of Social Protection Free Travel Pass on all our routes. Free Travel Pass H…

We are happy to carry bicycles in the luggage compartment of our coaches if there is room available.…

A day return ticket is valid for one outward journey on date of issue and one return journey on the same day before Midnight, as printed on ticket. Return Tickets are not valid for two journeys in the same direction. Day return tickets are available on our Commuter services.

A Monthly Return Ticket is valid for one outward journey on date of issue, and for one return journey for up to one month from date of outward travel as printed on ticket. Return Tickets are not valid for two journeys in the same direction.

A 10 Journey Ticket can be purchased on board the coach or in our office and is valid for one month from date of purchase. 10 Journey Tickets are available on our Commuter services. 

We offer Family Tickets on our express services which makes travelling as a family very affordable and convenient. Please see our family fares page in the special offers section for more.

Tax Saver Commuter Tickets are available on all our services and can be purchased by contacting our Customer Service Team at 091 564 164 or by emailing [email protected] . Taxsaver tickets must be purchased from Citylink by Employers on behalf of their employees. For further details on the Tax Saver Scheme please go to the Citizens Information website www.citizensinformation.ie or the Revenue website www.revenue.ie

Standard fares apply to all passengers above the age of 18 who are not eligible for a Young Adult/Student Leap Card and are not Free Travel Pass cardholders.

Young Adults or Students with a valid Young Adult or Student Leap Card from TFI, can enjoy significant discounts by booking online. Please note you must present your valid Young Adult/Student Leap Card when boarding the coach with your eticket or text ticket.

All children/teens aged 4 to 18 years inclusive can benefit from our great value child fares. Please note children and infants aged 0-14 must be accompanied on Citylink's Express services by an adult fare paying passenger. Children in school uniforms may travel unaccompanied on our Multi-Stop Services provided the journey being taken is less than 25 kilometers.

One infant aged 0-2 years inclusive, accompanied by an adult fare-paying passenger, will be carried free of charge. Any additional infants, accompanied by the same adult will be charged at child fares. 

We accept the Department of Social Protection Free Travel Pass on all our routes. Free Travel Pass Holders can make a reservation by using our online booking facility or by calling into our ticket office on Forster Street, Galway. Please note a reservation fee of €3 applies per passenger per journey on our Multi-Stop routes and a fee of €5 per passenger per journey on our Express routes.

We are happy to carry bicycles in the luggage compartment of our coaches if there is room available. There is a €5 charge payable to the driver. Bicycles can be selected as an add-on during the check-out process while booking online.

Fare Results

{{=_val.typename}}.

Don’t forget as well as Single and Two-trip tickets we offer a range of other great value tickets to suit most needs.

Dublin for Seniors

Singles for £11.99.

Tickets can be purchased online or at NI Railways stations on your day of travel. You can find a full list of prices here:

60+ Online Prices

Enterprise Plus Single: £17.00

Enterprise Class (Standard) Single: £11.99

Enterprise Plus Day/Monthly Return: £34.00

Enterprise Class (Standard) Day/Monthly Return: £15.00

In Station Prices

Enterprise Plus Monthly Return: £34.00

Enterprise Class (Standard) Monthly Return: £15.00 

Please note day returns and singles are only available to be purchased online.

More on passes for seniors

Terms and Conditions

• Enterprise 60+ special fares can be booked in advance online.
• Enterprise 60+ return fares can be purchased in stations on the day of travel.
• Passengers must present a valid 60+ SmartPass with their ticket in order to be eligible for travel or full adult fare will be charged.
• Tickets are subject to availability and no date or time restrictions apply.
• Enterprise 60+ SmartPass tickets are promotional fares and non-refundable.
• Rail travel tickets do not guarantee seats which are allocated on a ‘first come’ basis.
• On-board upgrades to Enterprise Plus are subject to availability and will be charged at the standard non-promotional rate.
• Normal conditions of carriage apply.

You might also like

Still having a look about? You might also be interested in this...

We have options to suit everyone - ensure best value with a travelcard, or buy tickets online, onboard, at a station or a ticket vending machine. More about tickets and travelcards

Plan your journey, get live updates on the move or buy mobile tickets.  More about our apps

Luxury travel for less: Your guide to free airport lounge passes

O ne of the most stressful aspects of travel involves the airport experience. When you’re not being hassled at security checkpoints, you’re spending way too much time (and money) finding reasonably priced, healthy food options and a comfortable place to relax before a flight. Airport lounges can solve these options by providing a serene and comfortable oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of busy terminals.

These exclusive spaces can run the gamut from basic to ultra-luxurious, with some even providing complimentary spa services. There are many reasons travelers pay to access airport lounges, but with the right credit card or membership, you may be able to get airport lounge passes for a steep discount—or even free. 

What is an airport lounge pass?

An airport lounge pass is a ticket or membership granting access to select airport lounges. These lounges give travelers a more comfortable environment to relax before a flight. They typically offer comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks and high-speed Wi-Fi. The more premium lounges even offer a la carte dining options, shower suites, nap rooms, and spa services. The quality of a lounge typically corresponds to the airline it's operated by. Premium airlines like Singapore and Emirates typically offer superb lounges, especially abroad.

Meena Thiruvengadam, travel expert and founder of Travel With Meena, finds the most value in airport lounge access when traveling abroad. “Having a comfortable place to shower before a long flight, do my skincare routine or nap during a long layover makes travel feel less exhausting. And there’s nothing like getting where you’re going—or getting home—and not feeling completely wiped out.”

Can you get into an airport lounge for free?

Generally, accessing an airport lounge for free is only possible if you hold a premium class ticket or have a membership or credit card that grants you access. International business or first-class passengers often enjoy lounge access as part of their ticket benefits. Some lounges also extend complimentary access to military members in uniform. Additionally, those who have an active lounge membership can sometimes bring up to two guests without paying a fee. 

Most other travelers can gain entry to airport lounges by purchasing a day pass. These typically cost between $25-60, depending on the lounge. Some lounges are so exclusive that you can’t even pay for access but need a specific membership or credit card. The American Express Centurion lounge is a prime example, restricting access to Amex Platinum and Centurion members only. Even guests have to pay a $30-$50 fee to accompany a qualifying cardmember into the lounge unless the cardmember reaches a spending threshold. 

8 ways to get into an airport lounge  

While spending $25-60 on a lounge pass may be worthwhile to some, attaining these luxurious spaces doesn’t have to cost a thing. Credit cards, particularly those with travel-centric perks, often grant lounge passes or memberships as part of their cardholder benefits. Additionally, standalone lounge memberships or programs like Priority Pass offer a wider range of lounges across different airlines. Savvy travelers can also secure free access through elite status within loyalty programs or by booking premium cabin seats using airline miles. Here are eight ways you can secure airport lounge passes for your next trip:

Airline rewards cards 

Many airline credit cards grant cardholders access to their lounges. These cards typically carry high annual fees but include airline lounge membership, along with perks like free checked bags, priority boarding and annual credits towards airline elite status. Examples of airline cards that offer lounge access include the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, the United Club℠ Infinite Card and .

Travel rewards cards

Many premium travel rewards cards provide airport lounge access at thousands of lounges worldwide through networks like Priority Pass. Additionally, many of these cards offer annual travel credits that can be applied towards airport lounge visits, though each card is different. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers $200 in annual airline fee credits, plus access to a vast lounge network that includes Amex Centurion, Escape, Lufthansa, Delta Sky Club, Plaza Premium and Priority Pass lounges. 

Elena Nikolova, founder of Muslim Travel Girl , often travels solo or with her four-year-old daughter. She recently renewed her high-annual-fee Amex Platinum Card for the lounge benefit alone: “The ability to relax, eat, drink, freshen up and not chase a child over the terminal is what makes travel enjoyable. We can't always travel in business class (although I try my best) so having a card that gives you free access even in economy and independent of an airline is what makes it worth the high fee.” Nikolova estimates she’s saved $2,000 on lounge passes in the last year alone, all while flying budget airlines sound Europe.

Priority Pass

Priority Pass is a network of over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, including airline lounges and select restaurants. Annual memberships range from $69 to $469, with higher tier memberships including unlimited lounge visits. Priority Pass can provide excellent value for frequent travelers, though guest access comes with a $35 per-visit fee. The great news is many premium travel cards offer complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, which includes guest access. Examples of these cards include the , and Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card.

For those who don’t have access through credit cards or memberships, many lounges offer day passes that can be purchased at the airport. These passes allow one-time access in exchange for a fee of $25-60, though the exact fee varies by lounge. Some credit cards even include annual day passes as a cardholder perk, like the United Explorer Card . Day passes are ideal for occasional travelers seeking a comfortable space during layovers or delays. 

Guest access

Some lounge memberships allow cardholders to bring guests into the lounge, free of charge. Guest access policies can vary in terms of the number of guests allowed. For example, Priority Pass Select members can bring two guests with them free of charge. The same goes for Capital One Venture X and Capital One Venture X Business cardholders, who can bring up to two additional guests into Capital One lounges without charge.

Fly international business or first class

Passengers flying business or first class on international itineraries also get complimentary lounge access. If the airline doesn’t have its own lounge, qualifying passengers will typically be directed to a partner airline’s lounge. While this seems like a far-fetched idea, premium cabin travel is actually pretty attainable through airline miles and credit card points. 

Airline elite status

Nearly every domestic frequent flyer program offers lounge access as a perk to members who achieve elite status. You don’t have to be a top-tier elite member either to take advantage of this benefit – it’s available for most mid-tier elite members on international flights:

• Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan: Complimentary lounge access for MVP Gold, Gold 75K and Gold 100K members traveling on Oneworld airlines to destinations outside of the U.S., Canada or Mexico.
• American Airlines AAdvantage: Complimentary lounge access for Platinum, Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum members traveling on international flights operated by American or partner airlines to select international destinations. 
• Delta Air Lines SkyMiles: Complimentary lounge access for Gold, Platinum and Diamond Medallion members traveling in Delta Premium Select cabins or Delta One. 
• United Airlines MileagePlus: Complimentary lounge access for  United Premier Gold, Platinum and 1K member traveling on an international Star Alliance flight.

Military members

Members of the U.S. military traveling in uniform and their families can access USO airport lounges free of charge. In addition, many domestic airlines offer complimentary lounge access to qualifying military personnel and their families. To gain access, most lounges require military members to be in uniform or present an I.D. with leave orders.

The takeaway  

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, airport lounges can vastly improve your travel experience. Lounges can elevate any trip by providing a quiet place to unwind and load up on snacks and drinks without paying outrageous airport prices. By leveraging the right credit cards and taking advantage of membership-based benefits, you can enjoy free airport lounge passes without breaking the bank.

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date but are subject to change at any time at the issuer’s discretion. Before applying, please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

This free line-cutting app could save you hours at the airport

Skip the wait at customs and immigration with Mobile Passport Control, travel’s best open secret.

A month ago, I flew from Paris back to Baltimore full of despair: My vacation was over , and the trip home seemed to take an eternity .

Then I saw the snaking line for customs and immigration.

What could have sunk me into a deeper woe actually revived me, because I didn’t have to wait in that soul-sucking purgatory. I didn’t have to wait in the shorter but still well-populated Global Entry line, either.

Instead, I headed to a third option that most people miss: the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) line. Thanks to this secret national treasure, I was out of the airport and hailing my Uber in eight minutes. (I timed it.)

You, too, can experience this completely free VIP treatment the next time you fly internationally. Here’s how.

What is Mobile Passport Control?

Think of Mobile Passport Control like a fast pass for international travel. It’s a free service that allows select travelers to access a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) express lane with a smartphone app.

To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, a Canadian B1/B2 citizen visitor or a returning Visa Waiver Program traveler with approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

You can use the app only when returning from an international trip at an MPC-approved site . That includes more than 30 U.S. international airports, 14 pre-clearance locations (among them airports in Abu Dhabi, Aruba and Ireland) and four seaports.

Why don’t more people use it?

Although you’ll see signs promoting Mobile Passport around those sites and sometimes ads on in-flight entertainment systems, most people aren’t taking advantage of the service. Just 8 percent of eligible travelers used the app in the 2024 fiscal year, according to CPB spokesman Aaron Bowker, though that’s a 50 percent increase from the year before.

The company Airside Mobile originally developed the app and launched it in 2014, first at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Awareness of its powers seemed to spread mostly by word of mouth and some signs around airports. In 2022, CBP officially took over the app, launching an updated version that left the original defunct. Some travelers missed the memo and figured the service had been discontinued when their app no longer worked.

But CBP is invested in the program’s growth.

“We’ve expanded the population of travelers that are able to use it. We’ve started to educate the airports. Airports have started to put in a better queuing system,” Bowker said. “And so we’re expecting to see this continue to increase.”

How Mobile Passport works

First, download the Mobile Passport app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store . Unlike line-cutting services such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , MPC doesn’t require preapproval or an application process. Even if you forget to do it before your trip, it’s so quick to set up, you can install it as you’re walking up to customs.

When it’s time to pass through, eligible travelers can fire up the app, answer the standard few questions about their trip that they would at a customs kiosk, take a selfie and proceed to a dedicated Mobile Passport lane, where an officer will confirm their details and wave them through. Individual travelers and families of up to 12 people can use the app at once.

It makes me feel like a fancy diplomat — not someone who just spent 12 hours in economy — every time I use it.

Mobile Passport vs. Global Entry

Mobile Passport and Global Entry both promise a faster airport experience. Both also come with pros and cons.

One MPC downside: Although it’s free to use and rarely has a line of more than a few travelers, it’s not at every airport. And Mobile Passport lanes may not always be available even in places that claim to offer it.

CBP spokeswoman Corey Daboin said the agency is aware of that problem. Sometimes, issues are due to infrastructure constraints — some airports may not have the lanes available to operate MPC continuously — or management. The agency stresses, however, that Mobile Passport is a priority, and “we are working on making that so it’s not an issue moving forward,” Daboin said.

If you fly internationally and your home airport doesn’t have MPC yet, Global Entry is a great option. It does cost $100 and requires an application and interview process. But it also comes with a TSA PreCheck membership and is good for five years — plus it’s still light-years better than waiting in that endless regular line.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

• History & facts
• Famous people
• Famous places
• Science & nature
• Tech & business
• Entertainment
• Tech & Science

Dublin Airport Partners with Turkish Airlines to Offer Free Flights to Istanbul

Dublin Airport has partnered with Turkish Airlines to provide an exciting opportunity for travel enthusiasts. The lucky winner and a friend will have the chance to win return flights to Istanbul, Turkey. This alluring destination boasts breathtaking scenery, a rich history, and stunning architecture, making it a must-visit location for any globetrotter.

To participate in the competition, individuals are encouraged to visit Dublin Airport’s X, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok pages and follow the instructions outlined in the competition posts. The winner will be chosen at random, with the announcement set to take place on the official social media pages on Friday, 21 June 2024.

For those seeking inspiration, Istanbul offers a seamless blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. With a history dating back millennia, the city provides a truly unique experience. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Taksim Square, and wander through the historic Sultanahmet district.

Beyond Istanbul, travellers can embark on a coach trip to Antalya, renowned for its natural beauty and rich history. The city boasts crystal-clear blue and turquoise seas, lush landscapes, and thousands of years of captivating history.

For the more adventurous traveller, Cappadocia’s enchanting landscapes and ancient rock-carved churches await. Famous for its captivating hot-air balloon rides and UNESCO World Heritage site, Goreme National Park, Cappadocia promises an unforgettable journey.

Entertainment , Travel

Istanbul’s World Theater Day Celebration Beckons Culture Vultures

The competition will be open for entries from Monday, 17 June to Friday, 21 June 2024, granting participants ample time to enter to win. With the announcement of the lucky winner scheduled for Friday, 21 June 2024, travellers are eager to seize this incredible opportunity for an unforgettable adventure to Istanbul and beyond.

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are  Amazon’s best-selling  travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

• The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
• Fodor’s Paris 2024 –  Learn more here

Travel Gear

• Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack –  Learn more here
• Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage –  Learn more here
• Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle –  Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

Related Posts

Barcelona Museum Hosts Picasso’s Guiding Geniuses

Hans Zimmer’s ‘A New Dimension’ Concert Comes to Lisbon: Save the Date!

Sidewalk Smokers’ Haven Threatened in Barcelona

After a Hot Day of Sight-Seeing Cool Down at Prague’s Ice-Cream Festival

She’s Back! Paris Gears Up for the Legendary Women’s Race “La Parisienne”

The Fest Della Repubblica: Rome Celebrates Holiday with the Military

Hello & Welcome

Popular articles.

Top 20 Streets to See in Paris

Paris in two days

Top 15 Things to do Around the Eiffel Tower

The Best Way to Visit Paris Museums

Top 15 Fashion Stores in Le Marais

Visit europe with discover walks.

• Paris walking tours
• Montmartre walking tour
• Lisbon walking tours
• Prague walking tours
• Barcelona walking tours
• Private tours in Europe
• Privacy policy

© 2024 Charing Cross Corporation