Enjoy travelling and want to turn your spending into flights with the AER Card?

The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card is a co-branded credit card that offers cardholders the potential to receive two free return flights to Europe each year. This article focuses on the offering as presented to customers in Ireland and explains the main selling point clearly: qualifying cardholders may be awarded two free return flights to Europe as an annual benefit.

Aer Lingus is Ireland’s flag carrier and Bank of Ireland is one of the country’s largest retail banks. Their partnership links airline-related perks to the AerClub loyalty programme and Avios currency, so the Aer Lingus credit card Ireland is designed to combine everyday banking with travel rewards.

This guide is a friendly, comprehensive introduction to the Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card and its two free return flights benefit. You will find clear sections on eligibility, how to apply, fees, redemption steps, common pitfalls and comparisons with other cards. Always check the latest terms with Bank of Ireland and Aer Lingus, as specifics on eligibility, fees and availability can change.

Key Takeaways

• The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card can include two free return flights to Europe each year for qualifying cardholders.
• The card links Bank of Ireland banking services with AerClub benefits and Avios earning on Aer Lingus.
• This article focuses on the offer available to customers in Ireland and how it typically works.
• Eligibility, fees and exact terms may change, so verify details with Bank of Ireland and Aer Lingus before applying.
• The guide will cover application steps, costs, redemption rules and tips to get the most value from free flights to Europe.

Choosing Your Bank of Ireland Credit Card: Overview of the Irish Options

Bank of Ireland (BOI) provides a range of credit cards tailored to different financial profiles—from basic, low-cost options to cards focused on premium travel rewards. The ideal choice depends on your income level, spending behaviour, and whether you value lower fees, lower interest rates, or travel-related benefits.

Below is a refreshed comparison of the BOI Aer Visa Card, Classic Credit Card, Platinum Credit Card, and Student Credit Card.

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Bank of Ireland Credit Card Comparison

The Student Credit Card is designed for full-time students and offers a low starting limit, a 0% introductory rate, and an easy entry into the world of credit. It does not have an annual bank fee, but it is subject to the €30 Government Stamp Duty. Its standard purchase APR is the highest among the four, at approximately 14.54% variable.

The Classic Credit Card is intended for everyday spenders and for users who benefit from balance transfers. It provides a 0% introductory rate either on purchases or on balance transfers. Like the student card, it has no annual bank fee but still carries the €30 Stamp Duty. Its standard purchase APR is high, at around 16.12% variable.

The Platinum Credit Card is aimed at high earners who want lower interest rates. It offers the lowest purchase APR of all the cards and provides a higher credit limit. This card does have an annual bank fee of about €76.18. Its standard purchase APR is the lowest, at approximately 13.79% variable.

The Aer Visa Card is designed for frequent flyers and Avios collectors. Its main advantages include travel rewards, Avios points, insurance benefits, and the possibility of earning free flights. Instead of an annual fee, it charges a monthly fee of around €6.50. Its standard purchase APR is moderate, at about 14.00% variable.

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Detailed Breakdown: Which Card Matches Your Profile?

1. Bank of Ireland Student Credit Card – Entry-Level Access

Ideal for: Third-level students in early academic years.
Core Value: Helps students build credit safely.

• Low and manageable limits (up to roughly €1,000)
• 0% interest on purchases for the first six months

Important to note: After the introductory period, the APR is among the highest offered by BOI. This card works best if you intend to pay your balance in full each month.

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2. Bank of Ireland Classic Credit Card – Practical and Flexible

Ideal for: First-time credit users or people consolidating existing card debt.
Core Value: A straightforward, fee-free card offering 0% promotional periods.

• Choice between 0% interest on purchases or balance transfers for several months
• No annual bank fee; only the €30 Stamp Duty applies

Important to note: The standard APR is relatively high, so clearing your balance before the promotional period ends is crucial.

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3. Bank of Ireland Platinum Credit Card – Low-Rate Premium Option

Ideal for: High-income earners who value the lowest interest rate available.
Core Value: Offers BOI’s lowest standard APR and supports higher credit limits.

• Best suited for people who may carry a balance from time to time
• Comes with an annual fee of approximately €76.18

Important to note: If you always pay off your balance monthly, the low APR provides no benefit—meaning you would be paying the annual fee for a feature you don’t use.

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4. Bank of Ireland Aer Visa Card – Designed for Frequent Travellers

Ideal for: Travel enthusiasts, Aer Lingus flyers, and loyal Avios collectors.
Core Value: A premium rewards card with strong travel benefits.

• Earn Avios on everyday spending
• Includes worldwide family multi-trip travel insurance
• Often offers perks such as lounge access or bonus flights after reaching a yearly spend threshold

Important to note: The card’s monthly fee applies regardless of usage. It only becomes cost-effective if you frequently travel and redeem the benefits.

Overview of the Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card and annual flight benefit

This overview Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card explains the product and the headline annual perk. The card is a credit card that blends everyday banking with airline rewards. It targets travellers who want to turn normal spend into flight benefits through Avios and AerClub points.

The card is issued by Bank of Ireland in partnership with Aer Lingus under the AerClub partnership. Card branding reflects Aer Lingus and AerClub, and the product links standard credit card features with airline-related perks and Avios earning potential.

What the card is and who issues it

The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card is a consumer credit card marketed in Ireland. It is issued by Bank of Ireland and carries Aer Lingus branding so AerClub members can earn Avios when they use the card. The arrangement places banking, rewards and airline loyalty under one offering for ease of use.

Summary of the two free return flights offer

Cardholders can qualify for two free return flights to European destinations each year as an annual benefit, subject to terms and availability. The phrase “free flights” typically means the base fare or award redemption is covered. Taxes, surcharges and ancillary fees usually remain payable by the traveller.

Who typically benefits from this card in Ireland

Frequent short-haul travellers between Ireland and Europe get the most from this card. Business travellers who fly often will see value through repeated redemptions. Families who make yearly trips can offset costs when they use both annual flight credits.

Regular AerClub members gain extra value by converting day-to-day spend into Avios and then into flights or upgrades. Occasional travellers should weigh the annual fee against likely usage to decide if the card pays for itself.

Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card: Two free return flights to Europe per year

Below we outline the promotional language, who usually qualifies and how the benefit is delivered. Read the bank’s full terms and conditions before relying on the benefit for travel plans.

Exact wording and scope of the offer

The typical promotional phrase used by Bank of Ireland and Aer Lingus reads: “Cardholders receive two complimentary return flights to selected European destinations each year.” That exact offer wording Aer Lingus Card appears in marketing copy, but the legal scope sits inside the bank’s terms.

Expect limits such as economy-class travel only, fare-class restrictions and seats subject to availability. The two complimentary journeys often cover base fare but exclude taxes, charges and extras like seat selection or baggage if these are not part of the specified fare class.

Eligibility criteria for receiving the two flights

Most applicants must be the primary cardholder and hold an active account in good standing to claim the benefit. The eligibility for free flights normally requires meeting specified conditions, such as maintaining the account for a defined period or hitting a qualifying spend target within a set timeframe.

Residency and banking relationship matter. Bank of Ireland typically requires Irish residency or a primary customer relationship in Ireland. Standard credit checks, age limits and affordability assessments apply before approval.

How the flights are awarded and redeemable routes

Award flights Bank of Ireland issues may be delivered as an annual voucher, a voucher code or an Avios-equivalent credit depending on the year’s promotion. Redemption usually happens via the Aer Lingus booking portal or through AerClub redemption channels, with clear instructions provided on how to apply the voucher at booking.

Redeemable routes Europe can include services from Dublin, Cork and Shannon to major city destinations. Common inclusions are Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid and Lisbon. London routes may be included if listed in the current offer, but not every European route is guaranteed and regional franchise services can be excluded.

Key card features beyond free flights

The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus card brings more than complimentary flights. Cardholders gain routine rewards, travel protections and practical banking tools that make everyday use straightforward and reassuring.

Rewards and Avios earning

Every euro spent on the card typically earns Avios for AerClub members. Earn rates vary by offer and merchant, so check current Bank of Ireland published rates. As an example, some card versions credit Avios per €1 or per €10 spent in categories like travel and grocery shopping. Partner benefits include occasional priority boarding, discounts on Aer Lingus ancillaries and access to AerClub promotions with hotel and car hire partners.

Travel insurance and additional travel perks

Premium features often bundle travel insurance features such as travel accident cover, travel medical expenses, baggage delay and compensation for flight delays. Some cards include car hire excess waiver for rental vehicles.

Policy limits, covered events and exclusions differ by product. Always read the insurer’s full policy document to confirm cover levels and required steps for claims.

Everyday banking features and card limits

Standard card benefits include contactless payments and mobile wallet compatibility for Apple Pay and Google Pay. Online and mobile banking via Bank of Ireland apps lets you view transactions, set alerts and manage statements.

Credit limits are set after a credit assessment and vary by applicant. Typical everyday card limits and repayment terms follow Bank of Ireland credit policy, with minimum monthly repayments required. Supplementary cards for family members are often available, and common spending protections such as purchase warranties and fraud monitoring apply.

How to apply for the Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card

Applying for the Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card is straightforward. You can choose the quickest route online, visit a local branch for face-to-face help, or call the bank’s sales line if you prefer to talk it through.

Application channels: online, in-branch or by phone

To apply for Aer Lingus Card online, start at the Bank of Ireland application page and complete the form. Online submissions are generally the fastest and may offer instant pre-approval.

If you prefer a personal touch, visit a branch to speak with a staff member who can review your eligibility and explain benefits. Calling the sales line is useful when you need clarifications before you submit.

Eligibility checks and documentation required

Bank of Ireland will run standard creditworthiness checks as part of the Bank of Ireland application. Applicants must meet minimum age and residency criteria for Ireland.

Prepare the required documents credit card Ireland typically asks for: proof of identity such as a passport or driving licence, proof of address like a recent utility bill or bank statement, and proof of income such as recent payslips, a P60 or self-assessment record. You might be asked for PPS number and recent bank statements in some cases.

Typical approval times and first steps after approval

Online pre-approval can be instant. Full approval often arrives within a few working days. Once approved, the physical card usually ships in 5–10 working days.

On receipt, follow activation instructions, create a PIN and set up online banking. Check welcome emails for steps to link the card to AerClub and to activate any introductory benefits.

Cost and fees associated with the card

This card offers strong travel value, but you should weigh ongoing costs against the benefits. Read the fee schedule before applying and run simple maths to decide if it suits your travel pattern.

Annual fees and whether the flight benefit offsets them

Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus cardholders can expect an annual fee that varies by product tier. To judge value, compare the total annual fee with the likely cost of two return flights to Europe after taxes and charges.

Estimate average fares for routes you would use, add mandatory taxes and carrier charges, then subtract any Avios or discounts you would otherwise apply. This simple cost-benefit check clarifies whether the annual fee vs flight benefit delivers a net saving for your trips.

Foreign transaction fees and cash withdrawal charges

Purchases made in currencies outside the euro often attract a currency conversion fee. Typical rates range from 1.25% to 2.5%, though Bank of Ireland’s exact charge should be checked on their latest schedule.

Cash withdrawals on credit cards usually incur an upfront fee plus interest from the day of the withdrawal. That cost can quickly erode travel value, so limit cash advances and use debit cards or local ATMs when possible to avoid high foreign transaction charges Ireland travellers face.

Late payment interest and penalty information

Missing a payment leads to interest on the outstanding balance, often at a high APR. Late-payment fees may also apply and repeated misses can affect your credit record with Irish credit reference agencies.

To protect value, aim to pay at least the minimum on time and use interest-free purchase periods where available. That preserves the benefit of two flights while avoiding costly finance charges.

How to redeem the two free return flights each year

Getting those two free return flights from the Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card is straightforward when you follow the right steps. Link your AerClub account to the Bank of Ireland card, check your account for the voucher or award credit, then search for eligible routes. The booking process AerClub often mirrors Aer Lingus’ website, but some redemptions require a call to reservations.

Step-by-step booking

1. Ensure your AerClub number is attached to your Bank of Ireland account and that the award voucher appears online or in correspondence.

2. Search Aer Lingus or partner portals for award availability on your preferred dates and routes.

3. Select the flight and apply the voucher or choose award pricing at checkout.

4. Pay any remaining balance to finalise the booking. For complex itineraries or problems applying the voucher, contact Aer Lingus reservations for help.

Seat availability and timing

Award seats can be limited. Peak season, school holidays and special events often reduce availability. Booking early raises the chances of securing the flights you want.

Blackout dates and capacity controls may be applied on certain popular routes. If you cannot find seats online, try flexible dates or nearby airports. Calling Aer Lingus can reveal seats not shown on the website.

What the free flights do not cover

The free flights cover the fare component only. Passengers must pay government taxes, airport charges and carrier surcharges that sit outside the voucher value. Typical examples include UK Air Passenger Duty on applicable routes and airport fees at busy terminals.

Ancillary extras such as checked baggage, seat selection and priority boarding are not included and will be added at booking or check-in. Be aware of taxes and fees on award flights when you budget for the trip.

Confirm the final amount due before completing the booking. That prevents surprises at payment and ensures the redemption of the two free return flights goes smoothly.

Tips to maximise value from the flight benefit and Avios

Getting the most from a Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card means thinking beyond the two free return flights. Small adjustments in timing and booking strategies can lift value. Use bank benefits alongside AerClub rewards to stretch every euro and Avios point.

The easiest way to maximise Avios value is to travel off-peak. Shoulder seasons and midweek departures tend to have more award seats and lower taxes and charges. If you can move a trip from a weekend to a Tuesday, you often secure better seat choice and reduce ancillary costs.

Pick routes where cash fares are high but award levels stay modest. Popular leisure links such as Dublin to Faro or Dublin to Paris often show big cash fares in summer. Redeeming flights Europe on those corridors gives greater relative value from the card’s free flights.

Check AerClub promotions and limited-time offers before booking. Avios promotions Ireland sometimes include bonus Avios for particular routes or partner activity. Combine an Avios promotion with a companion or upgrade offer to turn modest balances into premium experiences.

Consider upgrades that mix Avios and cash. Using Avios to pay part of an upgrade can secure extra legroom or priority services without spending a large cash sum. Combining a bank card benefit with these options often delivers a superior trip for less.

If you travel with family, look into household accounts and pooling. AerClub household accounts let relatives pool Avios and reach redemptions faster. That approach helps when redeeming flights Europe for multiple travellers on the same booking.

Find out whether the Bank of Ireland product includes companion tickets or partner offers. A companion ticket that lets a partner fly at reduced cost can double the practical value of the annual benefit when routes align. Read Bank of Ireland and AerClub rules to confirm eligibility.

Comparison with other airline-linked credit cards in Ireland

Picking the right card means weighing guaranteed benefits against flexible rewards. The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card gives two free return flights each year. That perk sits beside other options in the market that focus on Avios earning, companion vouchers or lower annual fees. Read on to compare Aer Lingus card Ireland options and see where this product fits among airline credit cards Ireland.

How this card stacks up against other Aer Lingus or AerClub offers

The two-flight benefit is rare among AerClub partners. Some Aer Lingus-affiliated cards award large Avios sign-up bonuses or extra Avios per euro spent. Those cards can out-earn a voucher if you spend heavily on everyday purchases. The Bank of Ireland card is strongest for travellers who value a concrete, repeatable annual flight rather than chasing points balances.

Comparing to cards from other banks and airline partners

Other banks and airline partners in Ireland offer trade-offs. British Airways-linked cards may use Avios too but focus on different reward charts and route availability. Airline-agnostic cards often give flexible currency points that transfer to multiple programmes. Those can be the best travel card Ireland for people who want versatility rather than a fixed Aer Lingus reward.

Which type of traveller should choose this card

Frequent short-haul flyers who use Dublin, Cork or Shannon routes stand to gain most from the two annual returns. Loyal Aer Lingus or AerClub members who want predictable value should also consider it. Occasional travellers or those who prefer high earn rates, low fees or flexible points might prefer other airline credit cards Ireland or transferable-rewards cards.

When you compare Aer Lingus card Ireland against alternatives, think about your travel patterns and whether guaranteed flights beat point accrual. If you weigh AerClub vs other programmes, check routes, earn rates and fees before deciding which card matches your plans.

Hidden terms and common pitfalls to watch for

Before using the annual flight benefit check the card small print Aer Lingus carefully. Small clauses often set out qualifying spend conditions, minimum transactions and account activity that must be met before the two free return flights are awarded.

Read the qualifying spend conditions line by line. A missed payment or too few purchases can mean the reward never appears. Banks may require a set spend within a fixed period or a minimum number of active transactions each year.

To avoid disappointment learn about common redemption restrictions. Vouchers are frequently non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash. They usually carry a strict validity window and limited seat availability on popular routes.

Be alert to rules on changes and cancellations. Many vouchers attract cancellation fees or become void if tickets are cancelled. Airlines and issuers may refuse refunds for taxes and surcharges paid at booking.

Flight voucher forfeiture can happen for several reasons. Typical triggers include account closure, arrears, a breach of terms, suspicion of fraud or the issuer terminating the card. Issuers may also amend or withdraw benefits with notice, so check the latest terms before booking.

Use this checklist to reduce risk:

• Confirm the qualifying spend conditions and time frame.
• Keep statements and receipts to prove eligible transactions.
• Note voucher expiry dates and seat availability rules.
• Avoid closing the account before redeeming benefits.
• Contact Bank of Ireland or Aer Lingus for unclear terms.

Real user experiences and reviews from Irish customers

Readers shared a mix of praise and irritation when writing about the Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card. Many posts highlight clear savings on family breaks and routine travel. Others list frustrations with redemption steps and taxes.

Positive experiences: how travellers saved on European trips

Verified reviewers report notable savings on short family trips to Spain and Portugal. Several families say the two free return flights covered most of the air cost for summer breaks when booked on off-peak dates.

Users praise the Avios accrual from everyday spending. Linking the bank card to AerClub and seeing Avios added automatically is often described as convenient. Quiet routes show straightforward redemption with low additional charges.

Common complaints and recurring issues reported

Frequent card complaints AerClub redemption centre on finding seats at peak times. Many customers describe limited award availability during school holidays and public events.

Another recurring gripe is confusion about included taxes and fees. Reviews mention delays in voucher issuance and extra charges that reduce perceived value if the annual fee is high. Some note that eligible routes can be restricted, making the benefit less useful for specific destinations.

How customer service and dispute resolutions typically perform

Reports on support are mixed. Bank of Ireland in-branch and phone teams often help with account queries and clarifications. Aer Lingus reservations usually handle booking problems and award availability.

Dispute resolution times vary. When issues remain unresolved, customers escalate to the Central Bank of Ireland or the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman. Several reviewers advise keeping records, timestamps and screenshots of terms to speed any complaint.

Practical travel planning advice for redeeming the flights

Use this short guide to make redeeming your Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus benefit smooth and stress free. Keep documents in one place, allow extra time at the airport and plan routes so you get the most from each return trip.

Recommended documentation and check‑in tips

Carry a valid passport and check expiry rules before booking. Some countries require passports valid for several months beyond travel dates. If eligible, bring an EHIC or GHIC for reciprocal healthcare. Keep boarding passes on your phone and a printed copy as a backup. Verify any entry requirements, such as visas or health paperwork, that apply on travel day.

Arrive early for check‑in when you’ve booked award flights. Award bookings can have different baggage allowances. Confirm allowances on Aer Lingus or the issuing portal before you pack. At busy airports, extra time reduces the risk of missing connections or incurring fees.

How to plan connections and maximise trip value

Build itineraries that avoid tight connections. When you use award flights, allow extra layover time in case of delays. Booking single‑carrier connections gives stronger protections under EU rules and limits rebooking hassles if a segment is disrupted.

Consider multi‑city routes or weekend breaks to spread value across two returns. Use the Bank of Ireland card benefit for strategic dates rather than the busiest travel periods. This helps you maximise trip value and reduces blackout frustrations.

Using the card benefits for hotels, car hire and extra travel needs

Check partner offers to see where you can use Avios or card discounts. You can often use rewards to offset hotel nights or car hire with partners like Avios hotels and major rental firms. Book hotels early to secure rates and review whether card perks include upgrades or extras.

Use the card for hotels car hire bookings to collect card rewards and protect reservations under credit card rules. If flight availability is limited, spend Avios on partner hotel redemptions or car hire to preserve the value of your two annual returns.

Conclusion

The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card review shows a clear proposition: cardholders can secure two free return flights to Europe each year, a strong perk for frequent short-haul flyers and loyal AerClub members. This two free return flights summary highlights the card’s appeal when flights are used wisely and booked early to avoid capacity limits and seasonal restrictions.

That appeal must be weighed against real costs. Assess the annual fee, taxes and ancillary charges, and read eligibility criteria and terms closely before applying. Comparing alternatives and checking up-to-date availability with Bank of Ireland and Aer Lingus helps determine whether this is the best travel card Ireland for your needs.

Plan redemptions in advance, factor in Avios earning potential and travel insurance benefits, and monitor seat availability to get maximum value. Prospective applicants in Ireland should verify current details with Bank of Ireland and Aer Lingus to confirm offer terms before committing.

FAQ

What is the Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card and who issues it?

The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card is a co‑branded credit card issued by Bank of Ireland in partnership with Aer Lingus and linked to the AerClub loyalty programme. It functions as a regular credit card while offering airline‑related perks, including Avios earning and cardholder travel benefits, and is aimed at travellers resident in Ireland.

How does the “two free return flights to Europe per year” benefit work?

Cardholders may receive two complimentary return flights to selected European destinations each year as an annual benefit, subject to the card’s terms and seat availability. “Free flights” commonly cover the base fare or are issued as an award voucher; travellers are usually still responsible for taxes, carrier surcharges and ancillary fees such as checked baggage or seat selection.

Who typically gets the most value from this card?

The card suits frequent short‑haul flyers, business travellers who fly regularly between Ireland and Europe, families who take annual breaks, and AerClub members who want to convert everyday spending into Avios and guaranteed flight benefits. Occasional travellers should weigh the annual fee against likely use of the two return flights.

What are the usual eligibility criteria for receiving the two flights?

Typical conditions include being the primary cardholder with an active account in good standing, meeting any qualifying spend or account activity required by the promotion, residency in Ireland and passing standard creditworthiness checks by Bank of Ireland. Supplementary cardholders may not always be eligible for the benefit.

How are the flights awarded and redeemed?

The flights are usually issued as annual vouchers, voucher codes or an Avios credit. Redemption normally takes place via Aer Lingus’ website or AerClub booking portal by applying the voucher at checkout. Some redemptions may require contacting Aer Lingus reservations, and only selected routes and fare classes are eligible.

Which routes to Europe are typically redeemable with the benefit?

Eligible routes generally include Aer Lingus services from Irish airports (Dublin, Cork, Shannon) to main European cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid and Lisbon, where Aer Lingus or its regional partners operate. Not all European routes are included and specific route lists are set by the issuer’s terms.

Are there blackout dates or seat restrictions when redeeming the flights?

Yes. Award seats are subject to capacity controls and may be limited during peak periods, school holidays and major events. Early booking improves chances of finding seats. Cardholders should check the card’s small print for any blackout dates or seasonal restrictions.

What costs are not covered by the “free” flights?

Government taxes, airport fees, carrier surcharges and optional extras such as checked baggage, seat selection and priority boarding are commonly excluded and must be paid by the passenger. These fees can materially affect the overall value of the benefit.

How does Avios earning work with the card?

Everyday spending on the card typically earns Avios at a published rate (check current Bank of Ireland materials for exact earn rates). Avios can be redeemed for flights, upgrades or partner services. Promotions and partner offers may increase Avios earnings from time to time.

Does the card include travel insurance or other travel perks?

Many travel‑linked cards include some level of travel insurance—such as medical cover, trip cancellation, baggage delay and flight delay protection—plus partner benefits like priority offers. Policy limits and exclusions differ, so cardholders must review the supplied insurance certificate and terms.

What are the application options and what documents are required?

Applications can typically be made online via Bank of Ireland’s website, in branch, or by phone. Expect to provide proof of identity (passport or driving licence), proof of address (utility bill or bank statement), proof of income (payslips, P60 or tax return) and PPS number if requested. Bank of Ireland will conduct standard credit checks.

How long does approval and card delivery usually take?

Online pre‑approval may be instant, with full credit decisions taking a few working days. Card dispatch commonly takes around 5–10 working days. After receipt, follow the activation steps and link the card to your AerClub account to access flight benefits.

What fees should I expect with the card?

Expect an annual fee (amount varies by product tier), foreign currency conversion fees on non‑euro transactions (often a percentage), cash withdrawal fees and interest charges. Late payments attract high APRs and penalties. Compare the annual fee against the likely value of the two flights before applying.

Can the flight benefit be forfeited or withdrawn?

Yes. Benefits can be forfeited for reasons including account closure, account arrears, fraud investigations, breach of terms, or if the bank or airline changes or withdraws the benefit with notice. Failure to meet qualifying spend or activity requirements can also void the entitlement.

Are vouchers transferable or redeemable for cash?

Most vouchers are non‑transferable, non‑exchangeable for cash and have limited validity. They are typically tied to the named cardholder and subject to specific change and cancellation rules. Always check the issuing terms for transferability and refund restrictions.

How can I maximise the value of the two annual flights and Avios?

Redeem during off‑peak times and midweek to find award seats. Use the benefit on routes where cash fares are typically high to gain more value. Combine card benefits with AerClub promotions, Avios bonuses or upgrades, and consider family pooling or companion offers if available to stretch value further.

How does this card compare with other airline or rewards cards in Ireland?

The Bank of Ireland Aer Lingus Card is differentiated by its guaranteed annual flight vouchers rather than purely points accumulation. Other cards may offer higher Avios earn rates, lower fees or more flexible rewards. Choose based on travel frequency, loyalty to Aer Lingus and whether the two annual returns outweigh alternatives.

What common problems do users report and how responsive is customer service?

Common complaints include limited award availability on peak dates, confusion over taxes and fees, delays in voucher issuance and perceived poor value if the annual fee is high. Bank of Ireland and Aer Lingus customer service can typically assist, and unresolved disputes may be escalated to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman or Central Bank channels.

Any practical tips for travel when using award bookings?

Carry a valid passport with adequate validity, check any entry requirements, and bring EHIC/GHIC if eligible. Confirm baggage allowances for award tickets and arrive early for check‑in. When connecting, allow generous transfer times and favour single‑carrier itineraries where possible to safeguard through‑ticketing protections.

Where can I find the exact, up‑to‑date terms and eligibility details?

Exact legal wording, eligibility criteria, qualifying spend thresholds, route lists and the full terms and conditions are published by Bank of Ireland and Aer Lingus. These can change, so always verify current details on Bank of Ireland’s website and Aer Lingus/AerClub communications before applying or redeeming.