Sir, - I write in connection with my Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to Birmingham on March 2nd to visit my sick mother.
During boarding I learned by mobile phone that my mother had died. The reaction from Aer Lingus staff was magnificent.
I was allowed back to the terminal building to make phone calls. On reboarding I was shown to my seat with a glass of water. During the flight I received the sympathy of what seemed like every member of the cabin crew and was variously offered both tea and alcoholic drink. On arrival at Birmingham, Aer Lingus had arranged for me to be met and accompanied to the arrivals hall.
I doubt if all this could ever be part of Aer Lingus's staff training, but such compassionate common decency is worthy of the highest praise and appreciation.
There are indeed alternative airlines, many of which I have used during a busy business life, but few could match Aer Lingus's performance on March 2nd. - Yours, etc.,
Martin Davies, Eden Court, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16.