Popular route to return to Ireland West Airport
Pictured celebrating the launch of the new service between Groningen and Ireland West Airport during the EU Presidency Programme County Pairing Initiative, were from left to right, Kevin Kelly, CE, Mayo County Council; Cathaoirleach Cllr John Caulfield; H.E. Maaike van Koldam, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Ireland; H.E. Ann Derwin, Ambassador of Ireland to the Netherlands; Joe Gilmore, managing director, Ireland West Airport and Michael McDermott, head of tourism, Mayo County Council.
Dutch tour operator BBI Travel is to resume direct flights from Groningen Airport Eelde to Ireland West Airport for the summer of 2027.
Starting Monday, April 26th, the weekly service to The Netherlands will operate every Monday between April and September 2027. The service will provide the only direct access from The Netherlands to the West and Northwest of Ireland for summer 2027. All flights will be operated by Sky Alps.
BBI Travel previously operated direct flights from Groningen Airport Eelde to Ireland West Airport Knock in summer 2025. Despite the route's popularity, the service could not continue in summer 2026 due to a shortage of aircraft. In 2027, the service will return, alongside a new direct connection to Kerry Airport.
Announcing the new service Henk van der Kooi, managing director of BBI Travel said: "The advantage of flying to two different airports is that travellers can start and finish their holidays in different locations. 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 news, Joe Gilmore, managing director, Ireland West Airport, said the service would provide a welcome boost for tourism businesses across the West and North West, “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.”
BBI Travel offers complete holiday packages including flights, accommodation and transport. According to Van der Kooi, flying from Groningen Airport Eelde fits perfectly with BBI Travel's approach to travel. "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"
Karen van der Horst, manager Northern Ireland at Tourism Ireland, highlighted the opportunities offered by the two 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."
