London Southend Airport has announced details of a new service which allows its passengers to connect to 11 north American destinations through Dublin Airport.
From October 29, London Southend airport passengers will be able to connect to Aer Lingus transatlantic services and complete US pre-clearance in Dublin Airport, ahead of their onward journey to the US and Canada when booking direct with Aer Lingus or with a travel agent.
This new service is being made possible by the introduction of Flybe’s London Southend to Dublin route, operated by Stobart Air, offering up to three flights per day, seven days a week.
Aer Lingus flies to a total of 12 North American destinations, including New York, Boston, Washington, Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orlando, Newark, Toronto and Hartford, Connecticut. The airline also recently announced a new Dublin to Philadelphia route, commencing in March 2018.
Chicago
Completing pre-clearance at Dublin Airport - operated and staffed by US Customs and Border staff - means that on arrival in the US, passengers will be treated similarly to domestic passengers and so avoid the lengthy delays so often associated with US security.
It is estimated that this service will save passengers up to two hours on arrival in the US. Ireland is the only country in Europe to offer passport and customs pre-clearance to US destinations.
Commenting on this announcement, Glyn Jones, CEO of London-Southend Airport said: “We are excited to announce details of this service which will open London Southend up to transatlantic travel and save our customers time in the process.
"We estimate that over 13 million passengers travel through London airports to fly to North America annually, adding substantial time to their journey.
"Now there is an alternative. This service will enable customers to fly from London Southend airport, complete security and customs checks in Dublin before making their onward trip to the US at reduced journey times.”
He added: “With up to three daily services to Dublin, this route offers frequency, optimum schedules and an efficient, convenient and effortless connection to US destinations for our business and leisure passengers.
"We are constantly reviewing our services and looking at ways to enhance our offering. Connectivity is always key for our customers and this service we’re offering together with Aer Lingus and Dublin Airport reflects this.”
One-way fares from London Southend to North America start from £199 including taxes and charges.
- London Southend to JFK New York from £199
- London Southend to Newark, New Jersey from £199
- London Southend to Boston from £199
- London Southend to Hartford from £239
- London Southend to Chicago from £199
- London Southend to Orlando from £209
- London Southend to San Francisco from £239
- London Southend to Los Angeles from £229
- London Southend to Washington from £199
- London Southend to Toronto from £199
All fares listed are each-way, when booked as a return trip, including taxes and charges.
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