list of airports in Ireland

Ireland, a land of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, welcomes millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re planning a city break to Dublin, a scenic road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, or exploring the ancient sites scattered across the country, understanding Ireland’s airport network is crucial for a smooth journey. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all the airports in Ireland, helping you choose the best arrival and departure point for your adventure.

A Quick Overview of Irish Aviation

Ireland boasts a network of airports catering to both international and domestic flights. While Dublin and Shannon are the largest and busiest, regional airports play a vital role in connecting smaller towns and islands, offering convenient access to Ireland’s diverse regions. The aviation sector in Ireland is experiencing growth, with increasing passenger numbers and expanding route networks. This makes getting to and from the Emerald Isle easier than ever.

The Airports of Ireland: A Detailed List

Here’s a complete list of airports currently operating in Ireland, categorized by size and function.

Airport Name	IATA Code	ICAO Code	County	Primary Role	Website
Dublin Airport	DUB	EIDW	Dublin	International Hub	https://www.dublinairport.com/
Shannon Airport	SNN	EINN	Clare	International, US Preclearance	https://www.shannonairport.com/
Cork Airport	ORK	EIRC	Cork	International, Regional Hub	https://www.corkairport.com/
Ireland West Airport Knock	NOC	EIKN	Mayo	International, Regional	https://www.irelandwestairport.com/
Belfast City Airport (George Best Belfast City Airport)	BHD	EGAC	Belfast (Northern Ireland)	Regional, City Centre Access	https://www.belfastcityairport.com/
Belfast International Airport	BFS	EGAA	Belfast (Northern Ireland)	International, Low-Cost Carriers	https://www.belfastairport.com/
Kerry Airport	KRY	EIKY	Kerry	Regional	https://www.kerryairport.com/
Donegal Airport	DNG	EDGY	Donegal	Regional	https://donegalairport.com/
Galway Airport (Connemara Airport)	GWR	EICM	Galway	Regional, General Aviation	https://galwayairport.ie/
Sligo Airport	SXL	EISG	Sligo	Regional, General Aviation	https://sligoairport.ie/
Waterford Airport	WAT	EIYW	Waterford	Regional, General Aviation	https://waterfordairport.com/
Rosslare Europort (Aviation element)	–	–	Wexford	Helicopter Services	https://www.rosslareeuroport.ie/
Inishmore Airport	ISM	EIIH	Galway (Inishmore Island)	Island Access	N/A
Inishmaan Airport	INM	EIIM	Galway (Inishmaan Island)	Island Access	N/A
Inisheer Airport	ISR	EIIS	Galway (Inisheer Island)	Island Access	N/A

Note: Belfast City and International Airports are located in Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Rosslare Europort primarily handles ferry traffic but also has helicopter services.

Major Airports in Detail

Let’s take a closer look at the three largest airports:

Dublin Airport (DUB)

The busiest airport in Ireland, Dublin Airport serves as the primary international gateway. It offers a vast network of routes to destinations across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and beyond. With two terminals and a growing range of amenities, Dublin Airport is constantly expanding to meet increasing demand.

Shannon Airport (SNN)

Shannon Airport holds a unique position as the only airport in Ireland offering US Preclearance facilities. This allows passengers to clear US immigration and customs before departing, saving valuable time upon arrival in the United States. It’s also a key hub for transatlantic flights and serves the west of Ireland.

Cork Airport (ORK)

Cork Airport is the second-busiest airport in Ireland, serving as a vital regional hub. It provides convenient access to the south of Ireland and offers a growing number of international and European routes.

Regional Airports: Exploring Beyond the Main Hubs

Ireland’s regional airports are essential for connecting visitors to the more remote and scenic parts of the country. These airports often offer a more personalized travel experience and can significantly reduce travel time to specific destinations. Ireland West Airport Knock, Kerry Airport, and Donegal Airport are particularly important for accessing the Wild Atlantic Way.

Island Airports: Reaching the Aran Islands

The Aran Islands – Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer – are accessible by small aircraft from the mainland. These airports provide a unique and convenient way to experience the traditional Irish culture and breathtaking landscapes of these islands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Which airport is best for visiting Dublin?
A: Dublin Airport (DUB) is the primary airport serving Dublin.

Q: Does Ireland have US Preclearance?
A: Yes, Shannon Airport (SNN) offers US Preclearance facilities.

Q: Are there direct flights from the US to airports other than Dublin?
A: Yes, Shannon Airport (SNN) also receives direct flights from the US.

Q: How do I get to the Aran Islands by air?
A: You can fly to Inishmore (ISM), Inishmaan (INM), or Inisheer (ISR) airports from the mainland.

Q: What is the best airport for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way?
A: Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC), Kerry Airport (KRY), and Donegal Airport (DNG) are all good options, depending on which section of the Wild Atlantic Way you plan to visit.