Weekly service from Groningen set to boost tourism to the West of Ireland.
Ireland West Airport has revealed an exciting new weekly charter service from Groningen in The Netherlands, operated by leading Dutch tour operator BBI Travel. Running every Saturday from June to August 2025, the flights will be provided by Emerald Airlines, offering Dutch travellers a direct route to the heart of the West and Northwest of Ireland for the summer season.
This new service is a significant boost for tourism, as it will be the only direct connection from The Netherlands to this region of Ireland in 2025. BBI Travel, a specialist in travel packages to destinations like Scandinavia, Iceland, Canada, and Ireland, has a long-standing relationship with Ireland. “We began our tour operations in 1963, focusing exclusively on Ireland,” said Henk van der Kooi, managing director of BBI Travel. “The West Coast of Ireland is a truly unique destination with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and an outstanding food scene. It’s perfect for golfing, surfing, cycling, and hiking. Our package holidays include flights, accommodation, and car rentals, ensuring a seamless travel experience.”
Henk also noted the increasing demand for flights from regional airports. “Travelling from smaller airports offers shorter lines, ease of navigation, and a more relaxed start to your holiday. Ireland West Airport, located at the gateway to the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, is the perfect arrival point for an unforgettable Irish adventure.”
Joe Gilmore, Managing Director of Ireland West Airport, welcomed the new service, saying, “We’re thrilled to introduce this direct connection from Groningen to the West of Ireland. It’s a fantastic opportunity for Dutch visitors to explore this beautiful region, known for its wild landscapes and warm hospitality. Research from Tourism Ireland shows that 40% of Dutch visitors to Ireland already explore the West, Northwest, and Midlands, and this service will provide even greater access for summer 2025.”
The service begins on Saturday, June 7th, and will run weekly until the end of August, providing a convenient and direct route for Dutch tourists to experience all that the West of Ireland has to offer.
