The airline Aer Lingus, in collaboration with its regional subsidiary Emerald Airlines, is announcing a significant expansion of its 2026 summer program departing from Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport. Cork. This enlargement strategy includes the opening of two new major European routes: one to Nice, gateway to the Côte d'Azur, and another towards Santiago de Compostela, a major pilgrimage destination in Spain. At the same time, frequencies to Glasgow will be increased, and the cabin baggage policy will be harmonized across the entire regional network.
Nice, a new Côte d'Azur destination from Cork
From May 2, 2026, Aer Lingus will inaugurate a direct seasonal service between Cork and Nice. The new route, which will operate twice weekly (Wednesdays and Saturdays) until September 30, 2026, re-establishes a direct link between the south of Ireland and the French Riviera. Fares start at 69.99 euros one way, including taxes. Cork Airport highlights Nice's appeal as an ideal base from which to explore the region, offering quick access to iconic cities such as Cannes and Antibes, as well as the Principality of Monaco, via rail and road links.
«Nice and Santiago de Compostela are two great cities, opening up new possibilities for exploring both the Côte d'Azur and the Galicia region,» says Tara Finn, Aeronautical Development Manager at Cork Airport.
This opening strengthens connectivity between Ireland and France, complementing existing links to Bordeaux. It responds to growing demand from Irish passengers for holidays combining city-breaks and popular seaside destinations.
Santiago de Compostela: an accessible pilgrimage and tourism hub
From June 1, 2026, Aer Lingus will also be launching a service between Cork and Santiago de Compostela. Operating twice weekly (Mondays and Thursdays) until October 22, 2026, this new route is aimed at pilgrims on the famous Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela, as well as tourists wishing to discover the Galician region. Passengers will have easy access to the coastal cities of A Coruña and Vigo, as well as the spectacular Cape Finisterre.
At the same time, the seasonal route between Cork and Prague will be extended and transformed into an annual service, with flights maintained twice weekly. This decision testifies to the success of the route and strengthens Aer Lingus' presence in Central Europe, adding to recent openings to Bilbao, Bordeaux and Geneva from Cork.
Strengthening regional links: Glasgow and Bristol
In the regional segment, Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Emerald Airlines, will increase frequencies between Cork and Glasgow. From May 25, 2026, flights will increase from four to six per week, with two new rotations on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This route is the only direct link between Glasgow and the Munster region of Ireland.
Service to Bristol will remain daily, with flights doubled on Mondays and Fridays to meet demand from business and leisure travellers between the south of Ireland and the south-west of England.
«We are delighted to expand our network from Cork, adding Glasgow and increasing capacity to Bristol, giving our customers more travel options and more flexibility,» says Ian Lough, Emerald Airlines Commercial Director.
A harmonized baggage policy for the regional network
In parallel with these network developments, Aer Lingus is harmonizing its cabin baggage policy on flights operated by Aer Lingus Regional. As of March 3, 2026, a 10 kg baggage allowance will be included for Plus and Advantage fare holders. Passengers on Saver fares will be able to purchase this allowance or opt for free checked baggage. AerClub loyalty program benefits will also be extended to these flights, consolidating the commercial integration between Aer Lingus and Emerald Airlines. This simplification is designed to make travel planning easier for passengers.
2026 summer program: an expanded catalog of destinations
The 2026 summer schedule from Cork promises to be particularly busy. In addition to new services to Nice and Santiago, Aer Lingus will confirm its routes to classic destinations such as Malaga, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Faro, Palma de Mallorca, Bilbao and Bordeaux. London-Heathrow will continue to be served daily, complemented by regional routes to Bristol and Glasgow. This strategic expansion confirms Aer Lingus' ambition to strengthen its position in the Irish and European markets.
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