How to Connect in Dublin Airport between the US & Europe
When I was growing up, I was an airplane geek. I would take two buses to the airport on a Sunday afternoon to go to Dublin Airport and plane spot. Had my little log book, my radio scanner. I don't put this on my dating profile of course, but back then Aer Lingus only transatlantic flights were to JFK & Boston, the two big Irish hubs in the US.
Today, Aer Lingus fly to 20 cities in the US and they have turned Dublin Airport into a major hub for further travel onto European cities. Today 20% of the passengers are connecting on Aer Lingus. They will only be staying in Dublin for an hour before connecting to another flight (their loss!).
Here is my guide for Connecting In Dublin Airport With Aer Lingus based on a recent Lyon-Dublin-JFK trip.
⚠️ Important: Single Ticket vs Separate Tickets
This smooth process only works with a single ticket. Separate tickets = collect bags, recheck, go through security again. I just don't do separate tickets anymore, it's not worth the risk.
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Check In At Your European Airport
Check in at your European airport as normal, LYS in my case. Your bags will be checked through to your home airport in the US, so no need to collect and recheck in Dublin. You'll also get all your boarding passes here.
We don't use Uber in Europe. Prebook your airport transfer and you'll know your driver's name, car details, and exact price before you land.
Book your airport transfer
The Connection Process
All Aer Lingus flights arrive & take off from Terminal 2 in Dublin.
💡 Local Tip: Get a window seat on the left side of the plane for the best views of Howth on final approach to DUB.
Step 1: Flight Connections
When you land, look for the Flight Connections sign. It is before regular passport control.
Step 2: Scan Boarding Pass
You'll come up to a self scanning machine where you scan your boarding pass for your flight to the US. There's an Aer Lingus help desk right before these scanners if you need assistance getting your boarding pass or have connection issues.
Step 3: Passport Control
Then go downstairs to passport control. It's divided into lines for EU and Non-EU citizens.
Step 4: US Preclearance
Once through passport control, you'll exit through a door that puts you right next to the most important part of the process, Cloud Picker Coffee 😄
You clear US Immigration and customs in Dublin. It's called US Preclearance and it's fantastic. It's one of the reasons Aer Lingus have been so successful with these connecting flights. When you land in the US you walk off as a domestic passenger. No huge lines.
I have a full page about the US Preclearance in Dublin that will guide you through the rest of the process. Be sure to read it so you know what to expect.
Business class passengers can use the 51st & Green Lounge in Dublin after Preclearance.
Flying From the US to Europe?
The process works in reverse and it's even simpler. You'll clear US immigration and customs before you leave the US, so when you land in Dublin you're treated as a domestic arrival.
At your US airport
Check in as normal. Your bags will be checked through to your final European destination.
When you land in Dublin
- Follow signs for "Flight Connections"
- Scan your European boarding pass at the self-service machines
- Go through passport control (EU vs Non-EU lines)
- Head to your European departure gate
Connection time
The minimum is still 90 minutes, but you'll likely need less time since there's no preclearance queue. However, I'd still allow 1 hour 45 minutes to be safe.
Your bags
They go straight from your US flight to your European flight. You won't see them until your final destination in Europe.
The only difference is you skip the preclearance facility entirely and head straight to your European gate after passport control. Much faster than the Europe-to-US route.
1. Take a Nap! Walk from the airport hotel to the terminal in minutes. 👉 Check availability now
2. See the Cliffs of Howth. Howth is the most beautiful place in all of Dublin and close to the airport. 👉Take This Tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I need to connect through Dublin to the US?
The minimum connection time is officially 90 minutes, but for US flights requiring preclearance, you'll want at least 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. If your flight is delayed, connection staff may call you to the front of the preclearance line.
Do I need to collect my bags when connecting?
Not if you are on a single ticket! When you check in at your European airport, your bags are checked through to your final US destination. You won't see them again until you land in US.
Can I use the connection facility if I booked separate tickets?
Self connecting passengers with hand baggage only can use the flight connection facilities if connecting to the same airline. If you have checked baggage:
- Exit arrivals
- Collect your luggage
- Recheck it at the Aer Lingus desk
- Go through security and US Preclearance like a normal departing passenger.
Is US Preclearance mandatory for connecting passengers?
Yes, all passengers travelling to the US from Dublin go through US Preclearance. There's no way around it, but that's what makes your US arrival so smooth.
What if my European flight is delayed?
On a single ticket, the airline is responsible for getting you to your destination. They'll put you on a later flight to your destination if you miss your connection due to delays. Go to the Aer Lingus help desk at the transfer area.
If your EU flight was delayed by 3+ hours, you may be entitled to compensation up to €600 under EU law.
Check if you qualify for flight delay compensation
How early should I arrive at Dublin Airport?
Dublin Airport recommends arriving 3 hours before US flights, but this is mainly for people starting their journey in Dublin. As a connecting passenger, you're already checked in and through security.
Are there shops and restaurants after US Preclearance?
There are a few cafes, shops and small Duty Free shop in the US boarding gate area.
Is there a lounge after US Preclearance?
Yes, the 51st & Green Lounge is available for all US bound passengers. It's free for business class passengers and there is paid entry for coach passengers.
Do I need an ESTA for my connection?
If you are a non-US citizen or visa holder, you must apply for an ESTA no later than 72 hours before your departure date. Real-time approvals are no longer available.
Do I go through security again in Dublin?
Nope! If you’re connecting from a European flight, you do not go through security again in Dublin.
You’ll scan your boarding pass, go through passport control, then head straight to US Preclearance.
Sort the Essentials Now for a Smooth Trip
💼 Need a Hotel? I’ve reviewed the best Dublin hotels
🚖 With a private airport transfer, you know your driver and fare up front
📲 Need an eSIM? Yesim, install now and have data when you land
☕ Calmness of the Lounge Get into 1,300+ lounges worldwide
🚙 Rent a Car Compare Dublin Airport rental rates here
🚑 Travel insurance is inexpensive. Peace of mind is priceless.
🚆 Need a Bus or train? Check bus and train times here
🧳 Luggage Storage. Save your arms & find a place to store your bags
🎉 Go Explore! Here's what to do when you get there
Have Questions?
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