Aer Lingus Takes Flight: New Nonstop Route Connects Raleigh-Durham to Dublin
Aer Lingus is set to expand its North American network by launching a new nonstop service between Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Dublin Airport (DUB) starting April 13, 2026. This expansion marks a significant addition for RDU, which has been rapidly growing its international offerings. The new route will operate five times weekly, utilizing the airline’s new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, capable of long-haul international flights.
Key Takeaways
- Aer Lingus will launch a new nonstop route from Raleigh-Durham (RDU) to Dublin (DUB) on April 13, 2026.
- The service will operate five times per week.
- The route will be operated by the new Airbus A321XLR aircraft.
- This is Aer Lingus’ 26th North American route and a significant expansion for RDU’s international connectivity.
New Transatlantic Connection
The introduction of this service will provide a direct link between North Carolina’s Research Triangle region and the Irish capital. Aer Lingus CEO Lynne Embleton expressed delight in adding RDU to their network, highlighting the region’s vibrancy and strong ties to Ireland. The flights will continue through the winter months, with a slight reduction in frequency.
Leveraging New Aircraft Technology
This new route is made possible by Aer Lingus’ investment in the Airbus A321XLR. This long-range, single-aisle aircraft is designed for transatlantic travel and features 16 lie-flat business-class seats. Aer Lingus was among the first airlines globally to introduce this aircraft, which also facilitated new routes to Nashville and Indianapolis in 2025.
Raleigh-Durham’s Global Growth
Raleigh-Durham International Airport has experienced substantial growth in international destinations. In 2025, the airport was projected to offer 62% more seats to international cities compared to two years prior. Recent years have seen the addition of airlines such as Air France, Lufthansa, Copa Airlines, and Aeromexico, alongside existing service from American Airlines to London and new Caribbean routes from Avelo Airlines.
Expanded Aer Lingus Network
In addition to the new RDU-DUB route, Aer Lingus is increasing frequencies on several existing U.S. routes for summer 2026. Service to Indianapolis and Nashville will increase to five times weekly, while flights to Orlando will become daily. The Boston to Shannon route will operate ten times weekly during peak summer months. Aer Lingus anticipates its summer 2026 schedule to be its largest ever across the Atlantic, with U.S. departures in 2025 already showing a 36% increase over pre-pandemic levels.
Using Points and Miles for Travel
Travelers interested in using points and miles to book flights with Aer Lingus can transfer rewards from programs like American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Bilt Rewards directly to Aer Lingus AerClub. Additionally, Aer Lingus shares the Avios award currency with British Airways, Iberia, Qatar Airways, and Finnair, allowing for easier transfers between these carriers.
Key Takeaways
- Aer Lingus to launch nonstop service from Raleigh-Durham to Dublin, The Points Guy.
