Madam, - Like Mary P. Corcoran (April 15th), I am a long-time supporter of Aer Lingus. I must, however, take issue with her disparaging comments about the airline's service.
I remember only a few years ago having a hot meal in economy class as a matter of course. But the fares then were far higher (in real terms) than now.
Having sampled the "pay bar " menu recently, I have to say it represents excellent value. As regards the request for exact change, this is merely a request: staff are happy to give change, and will also accept sterling. That, combined with consistently low fares and superlative service, in my opinion delivers the best overall service in air travel today.
Ms Corcoran poses the question: why not fly Ryanair. I can offer many reasons for flying Aer Lingus in preference to Ryanair, all of which are based on my experience.
Aer Lingus allocates seats and offers a more pleasant and less restrictive check-in process. Aer Lingus offers the facility to book connecting flights, Ryanair does not.
Aer Lingus charges for changing tickets are lower than Ryanair's. Aer Lingus compensates passengers when lengthy delays occur; Ryanair does not.
By flying Aer Lingus, one supports trade union workers.
I fully accept that, like Mary Corcoran's, my views are subjective. However, I believe it important to highlight them to your readers. - Yours, etc.,
PATRICK JORDAN, Monksfield Heights, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.