Aer Lingus to launch three new transatlantic routes to US
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Aer Lingus to launch three new transatlantic routes to US

AER Lingus is set to launch three new transatlantic routes including flights to Los Angeles and Hartford, Connecticut, as part of new expansions plans.

Ireland’s national airline, which was acquired by British Airways owners IAG last month, will also introduce a yet to be announced third route.

Industry experts have suggested Miami as a likely option, the Irish Independent reports.

Aer Lingus will announce the new routes on Wednesday, following the recent launch of new short-haul flights to ­Manchester, Pisa and Montpellier.

The Dublin-Los Angeles route is expected to open seven years after it was ­suspended as the recession began.

The move was attributed to higher fuel costs, a weak US dollar and the ­economic slowdown, it was reported at the time.

A spokesman for Aer Lingus could not confirm the proposed plans when contacted by The Irish Post on Monday, but he said that the routes would be launched on Wednesday.

The airline has also has launched a new-look website and online booking system.

In addition, it has plans to introduce a new frequent-flyer scheme, called 'Aer Club', to replace the airline's popular Gold Circle Club in the coming weeks.

The aim is to provide more ­redemption opportunities with IAG's other airlines and ­partners through a new ­common currency.

Dublin Airport has recorded a 15 per cent rise in passenger numbers in the first eight months of 2015.