Irish Olympian Arthur Lanigan-O'Keeffe has hit out at Aer Lingus after he was ejected from a flight for having 'fencing equipment'.

The 24-year-old, who competes in the modern pentathlon, had been travelling to a competition as he steps up his preparations for this year's Rio Olympics when he was asked to leave his flight.

Commenting on Facebook, he wrote: "I dedicate my life to ensure i make my country proud at the Olympics in Rio only to be let down be my National Airline (Aer lingus), I will miss the competition and waste valuable funding that I spent on Flights, & Hotel etc!"

Lanigan-O'Keeffe, who earned Ireland a European gold medal in 2015, said he was 'hugely disappointed' with the move and asked his followers to share his story of frustration.

A statement from Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Stobart Air read: "We regret the inconvenience caused to the passenger. However, as set out in the baggage information and guidelines on aerlingus.com, sports weapons cannot be carried on Aer Lingus Regional flights and any such equipment needs to be declared in advance of travel.

"The passenger was offered alternative travel options and a full refund."

It's fair to say today was a bad day, Thanks #Aerlingus Posted by Arthur Lanigan O'Keeffe on Saturday, March 26, 2016

Online Editors