Aer Lingus introduces major rule change for UK travel as Irish passengers issued warning

The rule changes will come into effect from today

Irish passengers planning on travel to the UK have been warned of a new major rule change by Aer Lingus that is set to come into effect this week.

From today, February 25, 2026, passengers travelling to the UK from Ireland will have to use either their passport or passport card as a means of identification. Up until now, passengers from Ireland could use other forms of ID like their driving licence.

The airline also confirmed that those travelling to the UK from Ireland who are not Irish or British will also have to use an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) from today, along with a passport.

Any other photo identification will not be accepted by Aer Lingus .

Irish and British nationals under the age of 16 will also be required to produce a valid passport or passport card when travelling between the UK and Ireland from today.

Photo ID requirements for those travelling from Northern Ireland to the UK will remain unchanged however and the following IDs will be accepted: