Aer Lingus A330-300 Business Class Review: Dublin DUB to New York JFK

After an incredible trip exploring Ireland’s best, it was time to head back home—check out our review of Aer Lingus’ business class from Dublin to New York JFK below! From the lively streets of Dublin to the wild beauty of Galway and peaceful charm of Killarney, this trip had it all. And yes, there were a few pints involved! Want more inspiration for sightseeing, hiking, and eating your way through the island? Be sure to check out our destination guides for some serious travel inspo. But for now, let’s see what Aer Lingus had in store for this stylish hop across the pond. Spoiler? A “throne” seat, the most tender brisket I’ve had on a plane, and free Wi-Fi. ☘️

Don't forget to check out our guides to Dublin, Galway and Killarney - the ultimate tools to plan your perfect Irish adventure! Wondering about other ways to get to Ireland? Check out our review of British Airways Club Suite!

Booking

There are only a handful of direct flights between New York and Dublin operated by Aer Lingus, United, and Delta. I managed to snag an amazing partner deal on Aer Lingus, and there are plenty of points options especially if you’re okay with a connection. Special shoutout to Aer Lingus’ agents who were super helpful on the phone when my outbound flight got cancelled. They were also quite responsive when dealing with EU 261 flight compensation claims.

Ground Experience

At Dublin airport, business class passengers get access to a dedicated premium check-in area separated by a sleek stone and glass wall. Aer Lingus has a departure lounge both areas of the terminal – a US pre-clearance area (the lounge called 51st & Green) and another area for all other destinations. Arriving in Dublin from North America? They also offer an arrivals “Revival Lounge” next to baggage claim.

51st & Green, located at the end of the corridor, is surprisingly limited to business class passengers and those that pay out of pocket (no credit card access here). It’s a bright space with plenty of windows, a small buffet area, and good tarmac views. There seemed to be plenty of (well-worn) seating and outlets but wasn’t that busy when I was there. I got a better vibe from their lounge in the general departure area.

Cabin

The Aer Lingus business class cabin features 30 lie-flat class seats in a staggered configuration. Some rows had a 1-2-1 layout and others were 1-2-2. Not all seats have direct aisle access, but there are two “throne” seats (3K and 5K) which I was lucky enough to snag in advance. The “throne” seat really gives you a sense of space and privacy! While not overly luxe, I appreciated the understatedly sleek green and grey color palette. The seat was accompanied by the standard amenities – an amenity kit, pillow, blanket, and noise-cancelling headphones. I grabbed my phone charger, stowed by bag, and settled in.

Dining

The crew offered glass of champagne and a menu while I settled in. Once we were airborne, drinks were served with some biscuits and a tasty onion jam. For lunch I started with a salad and the crab and cauliflower on curried couscous, which was fine. This however was followed by the most tender braised beef brisket I’ve had on a plane! It came with parmesan polenta, tenderstem broccoli, and baby carrots. Their strawberry mousse was the perfect way to finish lunch. Prior to arrival we were treated to a choice of sliders  (I chose the tasty beef slider with melted Dubliner cheese) and a trio of “sweet treats.” Overall a fantastic variety and quality of food on this flight!

Service

The crew was fantastic – attentive and friendly throughout, instilling that quintessential Irish hospitality.

Tech

The in-flight entertainment had a good selection and was easy to navigate. Wi-Fi was free for business class passengers. My seat was also equipped with a power outlet, USB port, and noise-cancelling headphones.

Amenity Kit

The amenity kit was simple and stocked with the standard amenities – a dental kit, eye mask, earplugs, socks, hand lotion, and lip balm. While totally minor on an overall really great flight, it’s one of the few areas where Aer Lingus could step up their game just a bit.

Lavatory

The lavatory was simple but clean throughout the flight, stocked with Voya products and air freshener.

Conclusions

After exploring the beauty of Ireland, Aer Lingus business class was the perfect way to relax on the journey home. With a fantastic crew, genuinely good food, and snagging that coveted “throne” seat, it was a great way to hop across the pond in style! ☘️

Don't forget to check out our guides to Dublin, Galway and Killarney - the ultimate tools to plan your perfect Irish adventure! Wondering about other ways to get to Ireland? Check out our review of British Airways Club Suite!