Chase Ultimate Rewards offer valuable flexibility, allowing you to transfer points to numerous airline and hotel loyalty programs. Among these is Aer Lingus AerClub, the loyalty program for Ireland’s flag carrier. This makes it a potentially efficient option for booking flights between the U.S., Europe, and Ireland. Here’s how to transfer points and maximize their value.
Which Chase Cards Allow Transfers?
Not all Chase cards offer point transfers. The following cards do :
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠
- Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
Additionally, cash back earned with these cards can be converted to Ultimate Rewards at a 1:1 rate ($100 cash = 10,000 points). The eligible cash-back cards include:
- Chase Freedom Flex®
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
- Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
How to Transfer Points
The transfer process is straightforward. Log into your Chase Ultimate Rewards account via the Chase website. Navigate to the “Transfer points to partners” option under the “Travel” menu. From the list of partners, select Aer Lingus AerClub.
If you haven’t linked your AerClub account, you’ll be prompted to enter your AerClub member number. Transfers occur in 1,000-point increments at a 1:1 ratio (10,000 Chase points = 10,000 AerClub Avios). Transfers are typically instant, but cannot be reversed, so confirm details carefully.
When Does a Transfer Make Sense?
While Chase points are typically worth 2.05 cents each, and AerClub Avios around 1.4 cents, certain redemptions can deliver superior value. Long-haul business-class flights, especially during peak travel seasons, often offer rates exceeding 2.05 cents per Avios.
Always compare award costs to cash prices and Chase Travel℠ portal rates before transferring. Here are some of AerClub’s best redemption options:
- U.S. East Coast to Dublin (DUB) or Shannon (SNN): Economy from 13,000 Avios one-way, business class from 50,000 Avios plus taxes.
- Short-haul flights from Dublin to the U.K. or Europe: Starting at 4,000 Avios one-way plus taxes.
You can also transfer Avios to other airlines within the Avios ecosystem (British Airways, Iberia, Qatar Airways, Finnair, Vueling), expanding redemption possibilities.
Why Aer Lingus Matters
Aer Lingus stands out by serving smaller U.S. cities like Cleveland and Hartford, providing award access for travelers who might otherwise need to connect through larger hubs. This route network, combined with strategic redemption opportunities, makes AerClub a viable Ultimate Rewards transfer partner for targeted travel.
In conclusion: Aer Lingus AerClub offers a compelling option for those traveling to Ireland or Europe. While not always the highest-value transfer, its specific routes and redemption options can unlock significant savings when used strategically.
