American Airlines has announced plans to expand its services in Dublin for the upcoming summer season with the return of three services to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Chicago O’Hare, and Dallas Fort Worth.
The new services will run daily until 29 October and will join the preexisting Philadelphia service.
New long-haul services to the Emerald Isle
American Airlines is tapping into an area with high demand as the U.S is Ireland’s most significant long-haul market.
The three new routes are the major U.S carrier’s main attempt to recover at least 96% of the passenger capacity it had before the pandemic in 2019.
The news has been welcomed by American Airlines’ Managing Director for Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Rhett Workman. He spoke of American’s pride in expanding its services in Europe with more flying to Dublin from the U.S and how that provides desired flexibility for its customers. He continued:
“American Airlines is grateful to our Oneworld and Atlantic Joint Business partner Aer Lingus and the Dublin Airport Authority for their support in building a stronger customer-centric hub in Dublin.”
The Dublin – Charlotte Douglas route stopped in 2019. It’s back now as clearly American noticed an increase in demand. The route will be run by American’s Boeing 777-200ER, a 10% increase in capacity compared to what was on offer in 2019.
The Dublin – Chicago O’Hare route will be operated by Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft as Chicago remains Ireland’s second most popular transatlantic destination. The Dublin – Dallas Fort Worth route will also be served by the U.S carrier’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners.
Bumps in the road?
Dublin Airport has been struggling with post-COVID-19 recovery. The airport has suffered some difficulties with staff shortages and is still working towards prepping the airport to cope with high international demand. Regardless, Dalton Philips, Chief Executive Officer of Dublin Airport’s operator DAA, welcomed American’s expansion from Dublin with open arms:
“It is great to see the expansion of American Airlines. In Ireland, we enjoy deep connections with the United States, so this new expansion of connectivity is great news for both business and leisure passengers. We look forward to continuing to work with American Airlines in promoting their expanded service offering at Dublin Airport.”
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