- The China Eastern Airlines service connects Shanghai and Dublin directly for the first time.
- The announcement forms part of the Government’s A New Era for Irish Tourism strategy and Market Diversification Action Plan.
- Tourism Ireland establishes representation in India and the UAE in 2026.
- The organisation expands resources in Germany, France and North American cities with enhanced air links to Ireland.
- The new route targets growth in inbound tourism from China.
- Bilateral Air Services Agreement between Ireland and China enabled the connection.
- The route aims to boost trade and tourism between the two countries.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke has launched a new direct flight between Dublin and Shanghai as part of the 2026 tourism programme. The China Eastern Airlines service forms the first direct link between the two cities. The route receives support through the Strategic Air Access Fund.
The initiative forms part of Tourism Ireland’s expanded activities that include dedicated representation in India and the UAE for the first time. Resources across mainland Europe have been increased to support year-round promotion in markets such as Germany and France. Teams in North America have been bolstered to capitalise on improved direct air links to Ireland.Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke shared “These developments reflect the Government’s commitment to widening Ireland’s international reach.”
