Aer Lingus's cut-price transatlantic air fares only apply to journeys originating in the US and not those from Ireland, it has emerged.

One disgruntled traveller discovered the important distinction when he attempted to book three return flights from Dublin to Chicago for next week. He mentioned the relevant special fare of $298 (€325) but was told that he was not eligible for this because his journey was outbound from Ireland rather than the US.

The businessman was then given a quotation of £3,000 for an economy seat. He decided, however, to book his flights with KLM at an individual fare of £900, including a stopover in Amsterdam. An Aer Lingus spokesman yesterday confirmed that the fares announced last week did not apply to flights outbound from Ireland. It is understood fare cuts will apply to UK and European flights as well as US trips.