Direct flights from European city to Ireland West Airport return for summer 2027
The weekly service will begin on Monday, April 26, 2027, and run every Monday until September, giving Dutch holidaymakers direct access to the West and Northwest of Ireland.
Ireland West Airport will welcome the return of direct flights from Groningen in the Netherlands for summer 2027, following an announcement by Dutch tour operator BBI Travel.
The weekly service will begin on Monday, April 26, 2027, and run every Monday until September, giving Dutch holidaymakers direct access to the West and Northwest of Ireland. SkyAlps will operate all flights.
The route will represent the only direct air connection from the Netherlands to the West and Northwest of Ireland for summer 2027, providing a welcome boost for regional tourism businesses.
BBI Travel previously operated the Groningen–Ireland West Airport route in summer 2025. Despite its popularity, the service was unable to operate in 2026 due to a shortage of aircraft. Its return next year will coincide with the introduction of a new direct connection between Groningen and Kerry Airport.
Henk van der Kooi, Managing Director of BBI Travel, said the two routes would offer visitors greater flexibility when planning their Irish holidays.
“The advantage of flying to two different airports is that travellers can start and finish their holidays in different locations,” he explained.
“For example, they can fly into Ireland West Airport, explore the Wild Atlantic Way by hire car and fly directly back to Groningen from Kerry. Both airports also provide easy access to some of Ireland’s most beautiful regions, with the stunning Connemara National Park and iconic attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry within easy reach.”
Welcoming the announcement, Joe Gilmore, Managing Director of Ireland West Airport, said the returning service would help strengthen tourism links between the Netherlands and the West of Ireland.
“We are delighted to welcome back BBI Travel’s direct service from Groningen to Ireland West Airport for summer 2027. This service will provide a welcome boost for tourism businesses across the West and Northwest, making it easier for Dutch visitors to discover our spectacular scenery, rich heritage and warm hospitality.
“With the Wild Atlantic Way on our doorstep and a friendly, hassle-free arrival experience, Ireland West Airport is the ideal starting point for an unforgettable Irish holiday. We look forward to working with BBI Travel and our regional tourism partners to make the returning service a success,” he said.
Van der Kooi said flying from Groningen Airport Eelde aligned with the company's focus on providing a convenient travel experience.
“We aim to make travelling as easy and enjoyable as possible for our customers, taking care of all the arrangements so they can make the most of their holiday,” he said.
Karen van der Horst, Manager Northern Ireland at Tourism Ireland, also welcomed the opportunities presented by the two direct connections.
“With direct flights to both Ireland West Airport and Kerry, visitors can easily explore two unique regions of Ireland, from the rugged coastal landscapes along the Wild Atlantic Way to the island’s rich culture, gastronomy and heritage,” she said.
The return of the Groningen service is expected to improve access to the West and Northwest of Ireland for Dutch visitors, while the addition of the Kerry route will offer further opportunities to explore Ireland through flexible, multi-destination holidays.