Most passengers welcome airline's ticket climbdown
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Saturday April 19 2008
THE group embroiled in the €5 Aer Lingus seat-fiasco last night welcomed the climbdown which put them back on track for a cheap holiday in the US.
The National Consumers Agency (NCA), which played a key roll in the dispute by meeting with Aer Lingus managers, last night believed most people would be "reasonable" and accept the economy seats booked at around €5 plus charges.
"It showed how a strong consumers voice can make a difference," Ann Fitzgerald of the NCA said. In cases where people do not wish to accept the offer, the NCA felt consumers were entitled to "take legal action" against the company.
Financial worker Kirsty Anderson, who frequently flies with Aer Lingus, welcomed the airline's change of heart.
"I am just more concerned with getting the flights; business class would have been a bonus," she said.
Ms Anderson, who will fly to the US in July, received an email from the airline alerting her to a seat sale on the USA route.
She purchased her flight for €165 return, including taxes and charges.
But as for flying with the airline in the future, she said: "I'm still undecided. I'll see how the flights go in July first."
Shop manager Jerry Sheahan was pleased the airline had finally "decided to see sense" by honouring the €5 tickets.
"When I booked the flights I never imagined it was premier class I was getting and I'm quite happy to take the economy seats," he said.
On the internet and on radio, some passengers still felt aggrieved they were not getting premier seats.
- LOUISE HOGAN
