If you work in Ireland’s aviation sector—whether as a pilot, baggage handler, cabin crew, or in any other role—understanding your pension options is crucial. The landscape of aviation pensions in Ireland has changed significantly over the years, and with the recent challenges facing companies like Aer Lingus and Ryanair, knowing your options is more important than ever. This guide will help you understand the pension schemes available, the historical issues with the Irish Airlines Superannuation Scheme (IASS), and how to unlock your pension early.

✈️ Spotlight: Aviation Workers – Know Your Pension Options in 2025

If you’ve ever worked with Aer Lingus, Ryanair, or in Ireland’s aviation industry — your pension may be affected by recent changes.
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Aviation Pensions in Ireland: A Changing Landscape

Aer Lingus Pension Scheme 2025

For many years, Aer Lingus employees were enrolled in the Irish Airlines Superannuation Scheme (IASS), a defined benefit pension plan designed to provide a guaranteed retirement income. However, this scheme faced significant underfunding, which led to a restructuring in 2015.

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The Restructuring of the IASS: What You Need to Know

In 2015, the IASS was restructured, causing significant cuts in pension benefits for many retirees. Employees saw reductions of up to 22.53% in their monthly pension benefits, and this continues to affect pensions for those who have already retired and those still working for Aer Lingus.

This restructuring has led many aviation workers to seek alternative options for their retirement savings, especially as they face ongoing challenges with their Aer Lingus pension scheme.

Ryanair Pension Schemes: What Aviation Employees Need to Know

Ryanair Pension Options for Employees

As one of Europe’s largest low-cost carriers, Ryanair has a large workforce, including pilots and cabin crew. However, details of Ryanair’s pension schemes have been harder to come by. It’s important for Ryanair employees to understand how their pensions are structured and what options they have for early pension unlocking.

Many aviation employees, especially those working for companies like Ryanair, face challenges with their pension schemes, which may not provide the same level of certainty as the IASS once did.

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The Irish Aviation Leasing Industry: Pension Considerations

Aviation Leasing and Pension Transfer Challenges

Ireland is a global hub for aviation leasing, with more than 60% of the world’s leased aircraft managed from the country. For employees in the aviation leasing industry, concerns have been raised about transferring pension benefits from previous employers into private schemes. This can create confusion and uncertainty for those looking to secure their retirement.

Understanding the Impact of IASS on Aer Lingus Employees

The Impact of the IASS Restructuring on Your Pension

For many Aer Lingus employees, the IASS has been a significant part of their pension planning. However, the restructuring in 2015 led to ongoing reductions in pension benefits, which continue to affect those who have been part of the scheme.

What You Can Do: Unlocking Your Pension

If you are one of the many aviation employees affected by changes to the IASS, you may be considering unlocking your pension early. Consulting with a pension advisor can help you make informed decisions about whether this is the right move for your retirement goals.

How UnlockPension.ie Can Help

Pension Advice for Aviation Employees

At UnlockPension.ie, we specialize in providing expert pension advice for aviation employees. Whether you work for Aer Lingus, Ryanair, or in the aviation leasing industry, our team can help you understand your pension options, unlock your pension early, and navigate the complexities of the Irish pension system.

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Don’t leave your retirement to chance. If you’re an aviation employee looking to understand your pension options, now is the time to get expert advice. UnlockPension.ie offers a free consultation to help you understand the best path forward for your retirement.

Conclusion: Your Future, Your Pension

The aviation industry in Ireland is evolving rapidly, and so are the pension options available to employees. Whether you’re concerned about the impact of the IASS restructuring, looking for alternatives to Aer Lingus or Ryanair pension schemes, or need help understanding how to unlock your pension early, it’s essential to seek the right guidance.

Get in touch with UnlockPension.ie today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing your financial future.

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According to Citizens Information, Irish pension schemes — including those in the aviation sector — must comply with strict regulatory guidelines, ensuring a level of protection for workers across industries, from pilots to baggage handlers.