Aer Lingus Takes Flight: New Nonstop Service Connects Raleigh-Durham to Dublin

Aer Lingus has announced exciting new nonstop service connecting Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) with Dublin Airport (DUB), set to launch in April 2026. 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 will operate five times weekly, utilizing the airline’s advanced Airbus A321XLR aircraft.

Key Takeaways

• Aer Lingus will launch a new nonstop route from Raleigh-Durham (RDU) to Dublin (DUB) starting April 13, 2026.
• The service will operate five times per week.
• The route will be flown using the Airbus A321XLR, an aircraft capable of long-haul international flights.
• This expansion is part of Aer Lingus’ broader strategy to increase its transatlantic capacity.

New Transatlantic Connection

The introduction of the RDU to Dublin route is a strategic move by Aer Lingus, leveraging the capabilities of its new Airbus A321XLR aircraft. This long-range, single-aisle jet is designed for efficient international travel and features 16 lie-flat business-class seats. This new service will be the airline’s 26th route to North America and is expected to strengthen ties between Ireland and North Carolina’s growing Research Triangle region.

Raleigh-Durham’s Global Growth

This new international service is a testament to Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s rapid expansion in global connectivity. In recent years, RDU has welcomed several new international carriers, including Air France, Lufthansa, Copa Airlines, and Aeromexico, significantly increasing its international seat capacity. The addition of Aer Lingus further solidifies RDU’s position as a key gateway for international travel on the East Coast.

Expanded Aer Lingus Network

Beyond the new Raleigh-Durham service, Aer Lingus is also enhancing its existing U.S. routes for the summer of 2026. Flights to Indianapolis and Nashville from Dublin will increase to five times weekly, while Orlando will see daily service. Additionally, nonstop flights from Boston to Shannon, Ireland, will operate ten times weekly during peak summer months. These adjustments contribute to Aer Lingus’ largest-ever transatlantic schedule for Summer 2026, reflecting a 36% increase in U.S. departures compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Utilizing Points and Miles

For travelers looking to book flights with points and miles, Aer Lingus offers several options. Points from American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Bilt Rewards can be transferred directly to Aer Lingus’ AerClub. Furthermore, Aer Lingus shares the Avios award currency with other airlines like British Airways, Iberia, Qatar Airways, and Finnair, allowing for flexible redemption opportunities.

Key Takeaways

• Aer Lingus to launch nonstop service from Raleigh-Durham to Dublin, The Points Guy.