Irish flag carrier Aer Lingus has said it will suspend flights between Ireland and Spain later on Saturday.

The airline has implemented a significant increase in capacity to help passengers returning from Spain and the Balearic Islands.

This operation has been ongoing since Sunday March 15th.

The IAG-owned airline said: "We increased capacity by up to 20% by deploying larger aircraft, Airbus A330s, on routes such as Malaga and Lanzarote to assist in getting people home as well as adding additional flight on certain routes.

"Guests with an existing Aer Lingus booking can re-book onto an earlier flight with no change fee or other charge."

Aer Lingus added that it will continue to operate flights to and from Spain until Saturday March 21st.

Last Sunday, the Government had called on any Irish citizens in Spain who wished to return home to do so.

While Ryanair said it was 'severely reducing' flights to and from Spain, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands.

Irish citizens have been told to avoid non-essential travel to the country and its islands.

Over 1,300 people have died after being diagnosed with coronavirus in Spain.

The Spanish government declared a state of emergency over the outbreak on March 14th.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) says anyone who has come into Ireland from Spain should restrict their movements here for 14 days.