Best airline for flight to Ireland?

[dotgirl]

We're planning a family trip to Ireland next year - DH, DD and DS. I would like to find an airline that will allow us to be comfortable in coach, but given how long the flight is (we're flying from Seattle), I'm considering first class - although my wallet cries at the thought.

Can anyone offer suggestions, experiences, etc?

[Tondi G]

My mom goes to the UK every year and loves flying with Virgin Atlantic. I don't think they fly direct to Ireland though.

Aerlingus is an option maybe? they showed a stop over at Chicago/OHare (ORD) http://www.aerlingus.com

Delta flies to Ireland.

[LBW]

I'm flying Continental tonight. I usually fly with them because they fly direct from Newark to Shannon and they're a domestic airline, so I can use my carseat for DS3 during takeoff and landing.

Aer Lingus has been more expensive in recent years and they fly out of Kennedy, so it would be harder for me to get to/from the airport.

[swrc00]

I flew Aer Lingus many years ago, but it was a great experience. According to their site they do fly out of Seattle.

[dotgirl]

Thanks, this is helpful. I had heard good things about Virgin and Aer Lingus - I will see which of those has the best schedule.

It sounds like British Air should be avoided? But is that just due to the carseat issue? Given that our DS is 6, we'll be bringing his seat for driving in Ireland, but don't need him to sit in it on the plane if they don't allow it.

[dotgirl]

Just wanted to update everyone that after looking at prices, flights, etc, we've decided to go with British Air. This is mostly because they have a schedule that suits our needs, but also because they offer an "in-between" class (not coach but not first) that is "World Traveller Plus" that gets good reviews and looks like it will keep us comfortable for the long flight from Seattle to Europe.

Thanks for all the input!