Aer Lingus is preparing a high-profile summer 2026 season from Cork Airport, combining capacity growth, new European routes, and operational adjustments that solidify its presence in the south of Ireland.
The airline will launch two new routes to Nice and Santiago de Compostela, increase frequencies to Glasgow via Aer Lingus Regional, and convert its Prague operation into a year-round service. This move is part of a broader expansion that, according to the company, adds six new routes from Cork in the last 12 months, reinforcing its commercial proposition at a key regional airport.
Increased Capacity to Glasgow: Aer Lingus Regional Boosts Frequencies
Aer Lingus Regional, operated exclusively by Emerald Airlines, will increase its capacity on the Cork–Glasgow route starting May 25, 2026. The operation will grow from four to six weekly flights, adding new frequencies on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
This adjustment responds to strong market demand. Ian Lough, Head of Commercial at Emerald Airlines, noted that the addition of two weekly flights reflects “the strong demand we continue to see” and reinforces the commitment to providing “greater choice, flexibility, and convenience” for passengers traveling from Cork. The Glasgow link thus maintains its role as one of the key regional routes in the Aer Lingus network from the Irish airport.
New European Routes: Nice and Santiago de Compostela
In parallel, Aer Lingus will expand its European network from Cork with the opening of two new connections:
- Nice: starting May 2, 2026.
- Santiago de Compostela: starting June 1, 2026.
The addition of Santiago adds a destination with a strong tourist and cultural component, particularly linked to the Camino de Santiago. Nice, for its part, strengthens connectivity with the south of France and the French Riviera (Cote d’Azur).
Susanne Carberry, Chief Customer Officer at Aer Lingus, emphasized that the airline seeks to offer “more choice and convenience” to its customers. She highlighted that the new routes provide alternatives both for those wishing to walk the Camino and for those looking to discover the French Riviera.
Prague Becomes a Year-Round Destination
Another significant update is the extension of the Prague service, which previously operated only during the winter season. Under the newly announced schedule, the Czech capital will feature year-round operations from Cork.
A More Diverse European Network from Cork
With these additions, the Aer Lingus network from Cork includes established destinations such as:
- Malaga
- Tenerife
- Lanzarote
- Faro
- Palma de Mallorca
- Bilbao
- Bordeaux
- London Heathrow
The company defines the summer 2026 schedule as the “most diverse offering to date” from this airport.
Continuity in Bristol and Product Adjustments
The Bristol route operated by Aer Lingus Regional will continue with a daily service, including two flights on Mondays and Fridays, maintaining reinforced connectivity on high-demand days.
Carry-on Baggage Policy: 10kg Across Regional Network
On the commercial front, Aer Lingus recently announced the extension of its 10kg carry-on baggage policy to all Aer Lingus Regional flights operated by Emerald Airlines, effective March 3, 2026.
Under this policy:
- Customers booking Plus or Advantage fares will have one 10kg piece of cabin baggage free of charge, regardless of the destination.
- Passengers with a Saver fare can pay to carry baggage in the cabin or check it into the hold for free.
- Baggage benefits for AerClub members will be extended across the entire regional network.
For summer 2026, Cork does not just gain routes—it gains reach, continuity, and greater operational depth within the Aer Lingus and Aer Lingus Regional network.
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