Aer Lingus launched its first new transatlantic route since 2019 from Ireland commencing a new direct Dublin to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) route operating four-times weekly using Airbus A321Neo-LR aircraft, its 15th North America gateway from Ireland, timed to enable onward connections to more than 20 key European and UK cities.
The carrier’s transatlantic bookings are up more than 20% on 2019 and Cleveland flights are already off to a very strong start with more than 90% of seats booked across peak summer season.
Aer Lingus CEO Lynne Embleton said “The addition of the new Cleveland route is a further demonstration of Aer Lingus’ commitment to develop Dublin as a hub, a key part of the airline’s growth strategy. At Aer Lingus we are seeing a 20% increase in transatlantic bookings, a strong indicator of the demand amongst US passengers for travel to Ireland and Europe. which is being met by our largest ever transatlantic schedule, delivering over 2.25 million seats this summer. Not only do we serve the very popular destinations such as New York, Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles, our A321neoLR aircraft allow us to provide connections to secondary cities such as Cleveland.”
Dublin Airport Managing Director Vincent Harrison, said “US destinations hold a special place in the hearts of Irish travellers. The connection between the United States and Ireland is not just about travel—it is about fostering relationships, creating memories, and embracing the wonderful experiences that await us across the Atlantic. I would like to acknowledge the strong working relationship between Dublin Airport and Aer Lingus. It is through hard work and collaboration that we have made this route a reality. That strong partnership between Aer Lingus and Dublin Airport has been instrumental in bringing this new route to life.”
Since 2013 Aer Lingus has grown the number of transatlantic routes it serves from six to 19 in 2023 and the number of transatlantic passengers will have almost tripled in the same timeframe, from 1.1m in 2013 to an expected 3m in 2023.
EI-LRA Airbus A321-253NX msn 08887 operated first service.
Aer Lingus’ service will bring an estimated $85 million economic impact over the first three years to Cleveland and state of Ohio.
Achill Island, Co Mayo, Ireland was twinned with the city of Cleveland, Ohio. This twinning was undertaken to mark the fact that over 80% of Cleveland’s Irish claim direct ancestry to Achill Island, to strengthen business and social links.
Cleveland is located in the U.S. state of Ohio and is the largest city on Lake Erie and one of the major cities of the Great Lakes region. Cleveland is known for its picturesque parklands, vibrant art and culture scene, musical history, and is often called the birthplace of rock and roll. Some of the city’s most popular attractions include the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, the Cleveland Orchestra, Playhouse Square, and the infamous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Flight Information:
EIN87 departs Dublin 1530 arrives Cleveland 1850
EIN86 departs Cleveland 2020 arrives Dublin 0850
Irish Aviation Research Institute © 20 May 2023 All Rights Reserved
