Ireland West Airport announced a new weekly charter service from Groningen, Netherlands, to the West of Ireland starting June 7, 2025, operated by Emerald Airlines in partnership with BBI Travel.
This service will run every Saturday for 13 weeks, providing the only direct access from the Netherlands to the West and Northwest of Ireland during the summer season, boosting regional tourism.
BBI Travel, a Dutch tour operator specializing in package holidays, lauded the appeal of the West of Ireland, highlighting its natural beauty, culture, and outdoor activities like golfing, surfing, and hiking.
Joe Gilmore, Managing Director of Ireland West Airport, expressed confidence that the new route will enhance tourism by offering direct access for Dutch visitors, noting that 40pc of Dutch travelers to Ireland visit the West and Northwest regions annually.
Joe Gilmore, Managing Director Ireland West Airport shared “We are delighted to welcome this new service connecting Groningen in The Netherlands with the West of Ireland. This new service will be a major tourism boost for the West and Northwest regions, providing direct access for Dutch visitors to this beautiful part of Ireland. Tourism Ireland research shows that 40pc of Dutch visitors to Ireland visit the West, Northwest, and Midland’s regions each year and this new service will provide a direct route to the West Coast for summer 2025. We look forward to working with Henk and the team at BBI Travel and Tourism Ireland in supporting this service and to welcoming thousands of Dutch visitors to the West of Ireland next year.”
Henk van der Kooi, managing director of BBI Travel shared: We started our tour operating business back in 1963, specialising solely in travel to Ireland. The west coast of Ireland is a very special destination, that holds a special place in our hearts. The breath-taking nature, warm culture and excellent food scene make this an unforgettable experience. It is also a fine destination to go golfing, surfing, cycling, or hiking. BBI Travel’s package holidays include flights, overnight stays, and car rental. “We are seeing an increase in demand for flights from regional airports,” says van der Kooi. “Traveling through a smaller airport means shorter lines, overview, and everything close by. It’s easy and you can start your holiday relaxed and what better way to start your holiday in Ireland than by arriving at the wonderful Ireland West Airport, located in the heart of the West of Ireland and the gateway to the magical Wild Atlantic Way’.
