Ireland's Airports: Locations And Travel Options

where are the airports in ireland

Ireland is known for its breathtaking landscapes and tourist attractions, and its main airport, Dublin Airport, is the 12th busiest airport in Europe. It is located 11km from Dublin City Centre and is served by airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and Aer Lingus. However, there are several other international airports in Ireland, including Cork Airport, Shannon Airport, and Kerry Airport. Belfast International Airport is located centrally within Northern Ireland and is served by several bus services, while the nearest rail station is Antrim, six miles away.

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Dublin Airport

The airport is easily accessible, situated just off the M1 and M50, with a driving distance of 20-60 minutes from Dublin City, depending on traffic. It is also well-equipped with the necessary facilities, including a customs service provided by the Office of the Revenue Commissioners and immigration checks performed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service for all international passengers. The Gardaí have a presence at the airport as well, with a small sub-station located beside the old terminal, and armed support units patrolling the airport and its surroundings to counter the threat of terrorist attacks.

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Cork Airport

In addition to its focus on passenger comfort and convenience, Cork Airport plays a crucial role in the regional and national economy. The airport contributes over €1 billion to the economy of southern Ireland and supports more than 12,000 jobs, directly and indirectly. This economic impact underscores the airport's significance as a critical component of Ireland's transport infrastructure.

The airport is easily accessible and provides a convenient gateway to various destinations in Ireland. It is well-connected to other parts of the country, making it a popular choice for travellers looking to explore the region. Cork Airport is served by several airlines, providing connections to destinations across the UK and Europe.

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Shannon Airport

The airport has played a crucial role in international relations and agreements. In 1990, an amendment to the U.S.-Irish bilateral agreement allowed Irish airlines to serve Los Angeles, and additional U.S. airlines were permitted to serve Dublin via Shannon. Despite facing challenges in the 1990s, Shannon Airport rebounded due to several factors, including the strengthening of the Irish economy, the improving situation in Northern Ireland, and an increasing number of American tourists.

Today, Shannon Airport remains a significant aviation hub, serving approximately 2 million passengers in 2023. It is known for its convenient location along the Wild Atlantic Way and is one of the few airports outside North America that offers US Preclearance facilities. Its historical significance, modern amenities, and strategic position continue to make Shannon Airport a preferred gateway to Ireland for travellers from around the globe.

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Belfast Airport

There are two airports in Belfast: George Best Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport.

George Best Belfast City Airport is located at the heart of Belfast City, on the south shore of Belfast Lough. Airlines such as Aer Lingus, British Airways, KLM, Icelandair, and Eastern Airways fly in and out of the airport.

Belfast International Airport is the main airport for the city of Belfast and is located 13.2 miles (21.3 km) northwest of the city. It was previously known as Aldergrove Airport, named after the nearby village of Aldergrove, County Antrim. The airport is served by easyJet, Northern Ireland's biggest airline, which operates the majority of flights. Other airlines that have operated from the airport include Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Ryanair, and Norwegian Air Shuttle. Belfast International Airport has seen significant development over the years, including upgrades to runways, taxiways, and parking aprons, as well as the addition of a new International Pier and lounge facilities.

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Kerry Airport

The airport was incorporated as a public limited company in July 1968, with the main objective of building and managing an airport at Farranfore. The first aircraft landed at Kerry Airport on 25 August 1969, piloted by Captain Milo Carr of the Department of Transport and Power. For several years, light private aircraft, occasional charter flights, and cargo flights were the primary users of the airport, along with extensive parachuting activities. The first scheduled service commenced in July 1979, operated by Aer Arann using an Islander aircraft.

In 1989, the runway was lengthened and widened to accommodate larger aircraft, and the terminal buildings were extended and upgraded. The first scheduled flight into Kerry Airport was operated by Aer Lingus from Dublin in May 1989, followed by Ryanair from London-Luton in 1990. In 2024, Kerry Airport handled 417,409 passengers.

Frequently asked questions

The main international airport in Ireland is in Dublin, which is also the busiest airport in the country. Shannon Airport is also popular with transatlantic flights. Cork Airport is Ireland's second-largest international airport.

Belfast International Airport is located centrally within Northern Ireland and is well signposted from Belfast and the major roads. George Best Belfast City Airport is located in the heart of Belfast City and is served by airlines such as Aer Lingus and British Airways. The City of Derry Airport is located in Eglinton, County Londonderry, and offers flights to London, Edinburgh, Mallorca and Liverpool.

Kerry Airport is located in Farranfore, County Kerry, and is a very handy option for those landing in Dublin and looking to get to the Wild Atlantic Way. Donegal Airport is located in Carrickfinn Beach in north-west County Donegal and has been named one of the most picturesque airports in the world. Waterford Airport is located in Killowen, southeast of Waterford, and serves southeastern Ireland.

Shannon Airport is located on the west coast of Ireland, and Cork Airport is also a good option for those looking to explore the west coast. Ireland West Airport in Knock, County Mayo, is another great option for those looking to explore the west coast.

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