MANY PASSENGERS FLYING with Aer Lingus will have to stump up extra if they want to select a seat.

Aer Lingus has confirmed today to The Journal that it’s now requiring travellers using the budget-friendly Saver fares must pay €4.99 if they’d like to select a seat.

A spokesperson for the airline said free seat selection on certain seat categories remains an option with other Aer Lingus fare types.

This includes PLUS and Advantage fares on short haul flights and Smart and Flex fares for long haul journeys.

The spokesperson added that the airline “remains committed to seating families and groups together wherever possible, and will continue to prioritise this during the allocation process” for flights.

The company – which recently reported a 22% increase in profits – introduced the charge last month.

It mirrors a similar move previously taken by Ryanair.

“Aer Lingus has revised its seat selection policy for customers travelling on Saver fares only,” its spokesperson said today.

“Under the new policy, Saver fare customers will no longer be able to select Standard or Standard+ seats free of charge during digital check-in. These seats will now be available for purchase, prices start from €4.99.”