Aer Lingus inaugural flight EI130 to Dublin, Ireland, a Boeing 757 named St Brendan, registration EI-LBT, took off from Bradley International Airport at 6:10 p.m. Sept. 28. The airline now offers year-round service from Bradley International Airport direct to Dublin.
The new Aer Lingus service not only creates a direct link between Connecticut and Ireland, but it also links Connecticut and Western Massachusetts passengers to major destinations across Europe. Via Dublin, Bradley travelers can now avail themselves of onward connections to over 25 UK and European airports including London, Madrid, Barcelona, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Paris, Bristol and Berlin, plus many more.
“We worked hard on bringing a transatlantic flight back to Bradley Airport because we know what a positive impact a flight like this, which serves as a portal to so many international hubs, can have on our economy, on tourism, and on Connecticut’s future,” Governor Malloy said. “This new flight will not just ease travel for residents, it opens the door to connecting our state to new business opportunities and new economic development initiatives. We have a significant corporate base within Connecticut and our surrounding states that have substantial regional and European connectivity needs. As a centrally located, major airport, Bradley will continue to be an important economic driver for Connecticut.”
“This is exciting progress for Bradley Airport and the State of Connecticut,” said Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman. “Transatlantic service provides an important gateway for tourism and commerce—and it positions Bradley Airport as a strong regional competitor. I applaud Governor Malloy, Aer Lingus, and the Connecticut Airport Authority on this success and the many doors it opens for our businesses and travellers.”
The Hartford launch is the third of three new Aer Lingus transatlantic routes to commence this year, marking the single largest expansion of Aer Lingus’ transatlantic network since the airline commenced transatlantic service in 1958. The growth plan underpins Aer Lingus’ successful strategy of expanding its Dublin Airport base into a major European transatlantic gateway. The convenience of U.S Customs and Border Protection services at Dublin has enhanced the continued growth of Aer Lingus’ Dublin operation as a connecting gateway. This service at Dublin Airport lets passengers complete all necessary U.S. Customs inspections while they are waiting to board their return flight to Bradley, allowing passengers to arrive at Bradley and disembark like regular domestic passengers.
Stephen Kavanagh, Chief Executive Officer, Aer Lingus, said: “We are delighted to commence direct service between Bradley International Airport, Hartford and our Dublin gateway and to offer convenient connecting service to major cities across Britain and Europe. Whether travelling for business or pleasure we aim to deliver the quality service and competitive prices that have earned us our Skytrax 4-star airline status. I’d like to take the opportunity to thank all the state representatives, business and community leaders who have supported Aer Lingus to date and we look forward to making this route a success for all involved.”
Services available to Aer Lingus customers on transatlantic flights include U.S. Customs and Border Protection pre-clearance in Dublin, strong connectivity through the Aer Lingus route network and partnerships with other US airlines, hi-speed internet access, an extensive in-flight entertainment selection, gourmet meals including premium economy options and award-winning cabin service.
“The reestablishment of transatlantic service at Bradley meets a critical need for our regional business and leisure travelers,” said Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) Board Chair Charles R. Gray. “The CAA is pleased to mark the start of our partnership with Aer Lingus, and we will continue to pursue new ways to grow the airport and expand our route selection.”
“The launch of Aer Lingus service elevates the stature of Bradley International Airport and establishes the airport as a true alternative to Boston and New York,” said CAA Executive Director Kevin A. Dillon, A.A.E. “This route opens up a whole new line of business for Bradley as we expand our global reach and make convenient connections for our travelers throughout Europe.”
The new Aer Lingus service launches amidst a variety of other service enhancements at Bradley International Airport, including the opening of a new airport lounge, duty free shop, Phillips Seafood restaurant, and Two Roads Brewing Company location. The airport has also aggressively enhanced its route structure since the CAA’s creation in 2011, leading to four straight years of strong year-over-year passenger growth.
“This new direct service between Connecticut and Ireland creates great economic opportunities for our state, from both a tourism and business development perspective,” said Catherine Smith, commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development. “I know companies and leisure travelers throughout the region—and from Europe—will take advantage of the convenience this new route offers.”
