New Aer Lingus Belfast-London flight after outcry over packed plane

The airline has also advised all customers due to travel on the route to give themselves additional time to check in, as changes to the boarding procedure will be introduced and more luggage will be checked into the hold.

“In order to reduce the operational pressure involved in implementing these measures, Aer Lingus is putting on an additional flight frequency on each day of operation of the service,” the airline said.

“The two services will depart at 0845 and 0945 on each day of operation. It is expected that this additional frequency will result in reduced loads on each flight.”

Aer Lingus added: “The Belfast – London Heathrow service is provided to maintain a vital air link between Belfast and London and to allow critical workers to travel where required.

“The safety and security of Aer Lingus’ customers and crew is our number one priority, and these process changes are being implemented as a matter of urgency.”

SDLP economy spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin has welcomed what she called the airlines’ “common sense” approach in putting on an additional flight.

The Foyle MLA said: “We are all horrified to see the pictures of the packed flight travelling a couple days ago. That was unacceptable. People still need to travel for essential reasons, be they work or personal. They must be able to do so in a way that practices social distancing, as much as possible.”

Ms McLaughlin added: “I welcome the fact Aer Lingus has responded to public concern and added an additional flight from Belfast to London. This will hopefully go a long way to ease the overcrowding eases and allow social distancing to be practiced. If further measures need to be taken, Aer Lingus should continue to review the situation and act as appropriate.”