Aer Lingus Takes Flight: New Nonstop Service Connects Raleigh-Durham to Dublin
Aer Lingus has announced the launch of new nonstop service connecting Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) with Dublin Airport (DUB). This expansion marks a significant addition to the airline’s North American network, offering a direct link between North Carolina’s Research Triangle and the Irish capital. The new route is set to commence in April 2026, with flights operating five times per week.
Key Takeaways
- Aer Lingus will launch nonstop flights between Raleigh-Durham (RDU) and Dublin (DUB) starting April 13, 2026.
- The service will operate five times weekly on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, continuing through the winter with reduced frequency.
- This route is facilitated by Aer Lingus’ new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which enables long-haul international travel.
- The addition of RDU signifies Raleigh-Durham’s growing international connectivity, with the airport having recently added service from other major carriers.
- Aer Lingus is also increasing frequencies on several existing U.S. routes for the summer of 2026.
New Transatlantic Route
Beginning April 13, 2026, Aer Lingus will offer five weekly flights between Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Dublin Airport (DUB). This new service will operate on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Even during the quieter winter months, the airline plans to maintain service with one fewer weekly round trip.
The Role of the Airbus A321XLR
The introduction of this new route is made possible by Aer Lingus’ acquisition of the Airbus A321XLR. This state-of-the-art, long-range, single-aisle aircraft is designed for international long-haul flights and features 16 lie-flat business-class seats. Aer Lingus was among the first airlines globally to debut this aircraft, which has also supported new routes to Nashville and Indianapolis.
Raleigh-Durham’s Global Expansion
For Raleigh-Durham International Airport, this new service to Ireland represents a significant step in its ongoing international expansion. In recent years, RDU has seen the addition of several new international airlines, including Air France, Lufthansa, Copa Airlines, and Aeromexico. The airport is experiencing rapid growth in international destinations, with a projected increase in seats to cities outside the U.S. compared to previous years.
Enhanced U.S. Network
In addition to the new RDU-DUB route, Aer Lingus is strengthening its presence on other U.S. routes. Service to Dublin from Indianapolis (IND) and Nashville (BNA) will increase to five times weekly in summer 2026, up from four times weekly in 2024. Flights from Orlando (MCO) to Dublin will become daily next summer. Furthermore, nonstop service from Boston (BOS) to Shannon, Ireland, will operate 10 times weekly during peak summer months. Aer Lingus anticipates its summer 2026 schedule to be its largest ever across the Atlantic.
Utilizing Points and Miles
Travelers interested in using points and miles for Aer Lingus flights to Ireland have several options. Points from American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Bilt Rewards can be transferred directly to Aer Lingus’ AerClub. Additionally, Aer Lingus shares the Avios award currency with British Airways, Iberia, Qatar Airways, and Finnair, allowing for transfers between these programs. Capital One and Citi ThankYou Rewards members can also leverage their miles by transferring them to partner programs that can then move Avios to Aer Lingus.
Sources
- Aer Lingus to launch nonstop service from Raleigh-Durham to Dublin, The Points Guy.
