Lois Larson
Yes, there is an airport in Donegal. Donegal Airport (Irish: Aerfort Dhún na nGall) is a regional airport in Ireland, serving County Donegal and the north-west. It is located on the coast, 3.7 km south-west of Bunbeg in Carrickfinn, a townland in The Rosses, a district in north-west County Donegal. The airport has been voted the world's most scenic approach for three consecutive years (2018, 2019, and 2020) in a survey conducted by a private jet booking service.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Donegal Airport/Carrickfinn Airport |
| Location | Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh, Co. Donegal, Ireland |
| Year opened | 1978 |
| Runway length | 1,500 m (4,900 ft) |
| Awards | Voted the world's most scenic approach in 2018, 2019, and 2020 |
| Notable flights | Twice-daily direct flights to Dublin, with connections worldwide |
| Nearby attractions | Mount Errigal, Slieve League, Bundoran, Glenveagh National Park |
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What You'll Learn
Donegal Airport's scenic location
Donegal Airport is located in Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh, on the west coast of County Donegal in Ireland. The airport is known for its scenic location, being voted the world's most scenic approach for two consecutive years in 2019 and the world's most scenic landing spot in 2018, 2019, and 2020. The airport is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the Wild Atlantic Way, a coastline with sandy beaches, and the majestic Mount Errigal. The region also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with traditional Irish music and vibrant festivals.
The airport is situated on the coast, just 3.7 km from Bunbeg in Carrickfinn, a townland in The Rosses, a district in northwest County Donegal. The area is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, with a maritime environment, a significant fishing industry, and inhabited islands. The coastline offers safe and quiet sandy beaches, with views of timeless islands like Rathlin O'Beirne, Tory, and Gola. The white-faced Errigal mountain stands over the forest parks, fish-filled lakes, and rivers.
The airport is just a 15-minute drive from Dungloe and Gweedore and a 45-minute drive from Letterkenny. Donegal Town is about an hour's drive from the airport. The region offers a range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Visitors can hike the magnificent peaks of Mount Errigal or explore the untamed coastline of Slieve League. Water sports enthusiasts can surf the wild waves of Bundoran or kayak through the serene lakes of Glenveagh National Park.
The airport provides easy access to the region's cultural and natural attractions. With its scenic location and proximity to popular destinations, Donegal Airport serves as a gateway to the northwest of Ireland and the northern part of the Wild Atlantic Way. The airport offers direct flights to Dublin, with connections to other destinations worldwide, making it a convenient option for travellers exploring the beauty and culture of County Donegal.
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Services to/from the airport
Donegal Airport is located in Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh, on the west coast of County Donegal in Ireland. It is known for its stunning landscapes and was voted the world's most scenic approach for two consecutive years (2018, 2019) and again in 2020. The airport is about a 15-minute drive from Dungloe and Gweedore, 45 minutes from Letterkenny, and an hour from Donegal Town.
Donegal Airport provides direct access to the Wild Atlantic Way, a scenic route along the west coast of Ireland. The airport offers twice-daily direct flights to Dublin, with onward connections worldwide. The Dublin route is operated by Emerald Airlines on behalf of Aer Lingus Regional, with flights taking approximately 40 minutes. This route has been served by various airlines over the years, including Aer Arann, Stobart Air, and Loganair.
In addition to the Dublin route, Donegal Airport offers flights to Glasgow International Airport. Loganair currently operates this route, with flights scheduled up to four times weekly from April to October 2024. This route has also been served by other airlines in the past, including Gill Airways, Bright Air, and Air Ecosse.
Historically, Donegal Airport had a brief service to London Luton Airport via Sligo Airport, operated by Ryanair in 1990. However, this service was suspended in 1991 due to fuel costs and security concerns. Additionally, CityJet operated seasonal charter flights to Rotterdam between April and September in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
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History of the airport
Donegal Airport, located in Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh, County Donegal, first opened in March 1978. It was initially referred to as Carrickfinn Airport, a name still used locally, and its airport code (CFN) is derived from this former name. The airport was intended to serve the nearby IDA industrial estate, with expected service to Dublin Airport via City of Derry Airport. The original runway was a 2,000 ft (610 m) grass strip, which was replaced by a hard surface runway and temporary terminal buildings in the mid-1980s.
In 1987, the Malinair service to Glasgow was replaced by Air Ecosse, and the following year, Loganair took over the route. In 1989, the runway was extended to 1,450 m (4,760 ft), with a further extension to 1,500 m (4,900 ft) in 1992-93. This period also saw the installation of runway safety areas and a new terminal building with modern navigational equipment. In June 1990, Ryanair began servicing the airport with flights to London Luton Airport (via Sligo Airport), but this service was suspended in January 1991 due to fuel costs and security concerns related to the Gulf War.
In 1994, the airport played a crucial role in providing relief to Tory Island during prolonged storms that prevented the shipment of food and fuel by sea. Irish Air Corps helicopters used the airport to deliver necessary supplies to the island. In the late 1990s, the airport began continuous service to Dublin, which has been maintained to the present. The airport has also experienced some setbacks during this period, including vandalism attacks in 1999 and 2000, which destroyed the runway lighting system.
In the 2010s, Donegal Airport continued to expand its services, with Aer Arann operating flights to Cork via Dublin in 2009 and CityJet offering seasonal charter flights to Rotterdam between 2009 and 2015. In 2015, Stobart Air, operating as Aer Lingus Regional, began servicing the route to Dublin with support from the Irish government. The airport has been recognised for its scenic location, being voted the world's most scenic approach in 2018, 2019, and 2020. In 2022, Emerald Airlines commenced twice-daily flights to Dublin, and in 2023, Loganair relaunched their route to Glasgow International Airport.
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Activities in Donegal
Yes, there is an airport in Donegal, Ireland. Donegal Airport is a regional airport located on the coast, serving County Donegal and the north-west. It was voted the world's most scenic landing spot in 2018, 2019, and 2020.
Now, onto activities in Donegal. Donegal is known for its stunning landscapes, including its rugged mountains and wave-hewn sea cliffs. Here are some activity ideas for your trip to Donegal:
Explore the Coastline
Donegal boasts 1,134 km of sandy beaches, cliffs, and craggy inlets. Visit the Slieve League cliffs, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, or take a boat tour from Teelin Pier to experience the cliffs from the sea. While you're there, don't miss the Fanad Head Lighthouse, perched on a rocky outcrop at the mouth of Lough Swilly. The lighthouse has helped seafarers navigate the waters since 1817 and offers unbeatable views.
Adventure Activities
For those seeking a thrill, Donegal offers a range of adventure activities. Try your hand at surfing in Bundoran, with its ideal beaches for beginners and qualified instructors. Or, take on the challenge of sea cliff and sea stack climbing along the County Donegal Coast. Other adventure activities include hill walking, rock climbing, abseiling, and kayaking through the serene lakes of Glenveagh National Park.
Historical Sites
Donegal is rich in history, with many sites to explore. Visit Fort Dunree, an important strategic site that has been used as a defence post by Irish chieftains, Vikings, and both the British and Irish armies. Step back in time at the Doagh Famine Village, which transports you to life in Donegal during the Famine and beyond through historical artefacts and reconstructions.
Cultural Experiences
Donegal offers a unique cultural experience, especially on Tory Island. Steeped in ancient myths and legends, Tory Island has preserved old Gaelic customs due to its remote location. Experience the island's rich heritage, deep culture, and sense of community, including its renowned traditional musicians.
Relaxing Options
If you're looking for a more relaxed pace, Donegal has plenty of options. Stroll through the biodiverse Ards Forest Park, with its combination of woodland and beaches. Or, take in a movie at the state-of-the-art Eclipse Cinemas Bundoran, a fun activity for both families and date nights.
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Donegal Airport's recognition
Donegal Airport is a regional airport in Ireland, serving County Donegal and the north-west. It is located on the Wild Atlantic Way, providing direct access to the stunning landscapes of the region. The airport is situated on the west coast, in Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh, which is about a 15-minute drive from Dungloe and Gweedore and 45 minutes from Letterkenny.
The airport has been recognised for its scenic approach and surroundings, being voted the world's most scenic landing spot in 2018, 2019, and 2020. The region boasts unspoiled natural scenery, a maritime environment, and a rich cultural heritage. From magnificent mountains to serene lakes and rivers, Donegal offers a unique blend of natural beauty and Irish tradition.
Donegal Airport has a rich history, initially referred to as Carrickfinn Airport until the 1990s due to its location in Carrickfinn. The airfield was officially opened in March 1978, with an initial grass runway that was later replaced by a hard surface. The airport has seen various developments over the years, including runway extensions, the addition of safety areas, and the construction of a new terminal building.
The airport offers regular scheduled flights to destinations such as Dublin, Glasgow International Airport, and previously, London Luton Airport. These routes have been served by airlines such as Ryanair, Loganair, Aer Arann, and Emerald Airlines. Donegal Airport also played a crucial role in providing relief to Tory Island during storms in 1994, demonstrating its importance to the region.
Donegal Airport is a gateway to the natural wonders and cultural experiences of County Donegal. With its recognition as one of the most scenic airports in the world, it invites visitors to explore the wild beauty of Ireland's west coast. The airport's convenient location and connections make it an ideal starting point for those seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful getaway in the heart of Ireland's stunning wilderness.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there is an airport in Donegal, Ireland.
The name of the airport is Donegal Airport.
Donegal Airport is located on the west coast of Donegal, in an area called Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh.
There are plenty of activities to do near Donegal Airport, including hiking Mount Errigal, exploring the Slieve League coastline, and water sports such as surfing and kayaking.
Donegal Airport offers twice-daily direct flights to Dublin, with connections to worldwide destinations. There are also regular flights to Glasgow International Airport, operated by Loganair.
