A new six-times weekly operated by Emerald Airlines on behalf of Aer Lingus Regional from Cork to Bristol had its inaugural flight last Friday. The new service provides a new connection between the South of Ireland and the biggest city in South-West UK. The new service is operated using an ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, which emits 45% less CO₂ than regional jets, according to the French-based aircraft manufacturer, ATR. The addition of Bristol to the expanded route network at Cork Airport opens direct air connectivity between two vibrant, cultural cities. Bristol is considered the capital of the South-West of England and is a unique and vibrant city. It combines its strong maritime heritage with a modern, dynamic culture, making it one of the most cosmopolitan cities outside of London. Bristol offers a variety of exciting entertainment and cultural attractions, and the city is easy to explore on foot. The new service will also provide great access to Wales, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Devon, and Cornwall. The new service to Bristol brings to ten, the number of UK routes available direct from Cork Airport –London Heathrow, London Stansted, London Gatwick, London Luton, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, East Midlands, and Bristol.
Commenting as the new service took off, the Managing Director at Cork Airport, Niall MacCarthy said: “Bristol has strong, unserved demand following the resumption of international air travel post-pandemic. We are thrilled to welcome Emerald Airlines, trading as Aer Lingus Regional to Cork to serve such an important route and opening up connections to South-West England and Wales. Our team will work very closely with Emerald Airlines to expand their route network further at Cork Airport in due course. We trust the travelling public flying from Cork will strongly welcome and support this new route.”
Also commenting as the inaugural service to Bristol departed, the Head of Commercial at Emerald Airlines, Ciarán Smith said: “As we commence our flights from Cork to Bristol, we are pleased to offer increased connectivity and convenient timings to our customers. We are confident that this highly anticipated route will be well-received by both business and leisure travellers, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with our partners in Cork Airport and Bristol Airport, ensuring the success of this service.”
