Ireland West Airport, in Knock, has announced a new weekly charter service operating from Groningen in the Netherlands to the West of Ireland, for summer 2025, with leading Dutch tour operator BBI Travel.
The weekly service will be operated by Emerald Airlines every Saturday for 13 weeks between June and August 2025. This is a boost for tourism in regional Ireland as this new service will provide the only current direct access from the Netherlands to the West and Northwest of Ireland for summer 2025. BBI Travel specialises in putting together complete travel packages to Scandinavia, Iceland, Canada, and Ireland.
“We started our tour operating business back in 1963, specialising solely in travel to Ireland,” said Henk van der Kooi, managing director of BBI Travel.
“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.”
“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.”
Joe Gilmore, Managing Director Ireland West Airport added: “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 40% 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.”
