Madam, - There has been much welcome for the open skies agreement between the EU and the US. Much has been said about the benefits that will accrue to Aer Lingus from this deal.
However, the first impression of a country is very often made by the quality and standard of service of the national airline and, in my opinion, Aer Lingus cannot compete in its business class with its rivals. Its service is shoddy and outdated. The seats do not go back fully unless they are broken. The in-flight entertainment is an antiquated system which seems more often out of order than working. The foot-rests on seats are usually broken.
Nowadays, because of the charge for baggage, more and more baggage is being brought on board and placed in overhead lockers.
The final straw is that Aer Lingus, in its wisdom, has removed the cupboard from its Airbus 300-200 series which was essential for the businessman making a short trip to hang up a suit. I consider that Aer Lingus's business class compares very unfavourably with that of its competitors despite the premium fare charged. - Yours, etc,
THOMAS McDONOGH, Dock Road, Galway.