Ryanair adds new route to affordable European destination from popular UK airport

Passengers will benefit with more choice over winter

Ryanair has unveiled a new route from a popular UK airport as part of its winter 2024 schedule. The budget airline announced today (October 16) the launch of 13 routes from Belfast, including one to an affordable European destination.

In addition, the carrier has increased the number of winter flights to three popular city-break destinations: Krakow, Alicante and London, commencing from October 27. Ryanair will quadruple the number of return services per week on its new Kaunas route, a budget-friendly location in Lithuania's heartland, reports the Express.

Kaunas boasts a medieval fortress, a charming old town, and a rich history with attractions like Kaunas Castle and a festive Christmas market. Since reopening in 2023, Ryanair's Belfast base has seen a 64 percent increase in passenger numbers compared to pre-Covid levels.

In 2024, more than 1.2 million passengers travelled through Belfast Airport, especially as Dublin Airport is currently closed due to the 2027 artificial traffic cap. To boost traffic, Ryanair has transferred over 50,000 winter seats to Belfast.

Dara Brady, Ryanair's chief marketing officer, expressed enthusiasm about the airline's growth in Northern Ireland: "As the UK's No.1 fares airline Ryanair is pleased to announce our winter 2024 schedule for Belfast, with 13 routes including an exciting new route to Kaunas – connecting Northern Ireland with the Baltics, as well as extra Winter flights to Alicante, Krakow, and London, and giving Northern Ireland citizens/visitors even more choice at the lowest fares in Europe."

He highlighted the company's commitment to the region since reopening its base in 2023: "Since reopening Ryanair's base in 2023, we have grown and invested heavily in the region with 2x based aircraft ($200million invest.) and support of over 850 local jobs, as well as driving important inbound tourism year-round."

Brady also noted the significant expansion of their operations: "Through our ongoing investment, we have grown our Belfast operation by +64 percent vs. pre-Covid levels, and we will continue to grow at Belfast, have recently switched over 50,000 Winter seats from Dublin due to the 2007 traffic cap rendering Dublin Airport closed for business."

He concluded with a positive outlook on the partnership with Belfast International Airport: "Ryanair looks forward to continuing our positive relationship with Belfast International Airport and the growth opportunity it presents. We look forward to carry millions more Belfast citizens/visitors onboard our Ryanair flights over the years to come."

Dan Owens, CEO of Belfast International Airport, also commented on the collaboration: "Since returning to Belfast International Airport, Ryanair has offered local passengers greater choice and connectivity with fantastic routes on offer.

"Today's announcement that they will deliver 13 routes over the winter period including an exciting new destination such as Kaunas in Lithuania only grows this offering."

"The additional flights to Alicante, Krakow and London strengthen Ryanair's presence in Northern Ireland and is warmly welcomed by all."