Cork Airport Eyes Long-Haul Flights to Mexico and US, Driven by €200m Investment
Cork Airport is preparing for potential direct long-haul flights to Mexico and the United States, contingent on Ireland qualifying for the FIFA World Cup and increased investment in infrastructure. A €200 million capital investment program is underway, aiming to increase passenger capacity to 5 million annually.
World Cup Opportunity
If Ireland successfully navigates the play-offs and secures a spot in the summer World Cup, Cork Airport is poised to facilitate direct flights for fans. Ireland is scheduled to play South Korea in Guadalajara on June 11, South Africa in Atlanta on June 18, and Mexico in Mexico City on June 25. According to Niall MacCarthy, General Manager of Cork Airport, the airport has the infrastructure to accommodate large jets destined for both Mexico City and Atlanta.
“There will be capacity for large jets leaving from Cork for Mexico or for Atlanta,” MacCarthy stated. “We have the infrastructure available, but the airlines decide what routes they’re running. We’ll take any business that airlines desire to do where there’s a market — but they determine the market.”
Transatlantic Expansion Plans
Beyond the World Cup, Cork Airport is actively pursuing permanent transatlantic services to Boston, New York, and Toronto. While Aer Lingus recently launched a Dublin to Mexico route operating until April, Cork hasn’t had a permanent transatlantic service since Norwegian Air Shuttle’s Boston Providence route ended in 2019. MacCarthy expressed optimism about securing at least one of these routes within the next five years.
Airport Development and Infrastructure Improvements
The airport’s €200 million development plan is progressing on schedule and within budget. Following a record-breaking year in 2025 with 3.46 million passengers, a new €1.4 million airbridge will be operational by the finish of the month. Completed elements of the capital project include a new oversize baggage screening facility, enhanced security screening at Gate 19, and upgraded executive lounge facilities. Construction is underway on a new mezzanine level above the arrivals area, which will house an expanded passenger security area, expected to be completed before the end of the year.
Transportation Needs and Future Planning
MacCarthy emphasized the need for improved transportation infrastructure surrounding the airport to support its growth. This includes 24-hour bus services, widening the N27 Kinsale to Cork Road with a dedicated bus lane, and planning for a future Luas (light rail) connection to the airport. Public consultation has indicated strong support for a Luas connection, and the airport is advocating for proactive planning to ensure the project’s feasibility.
“Let’s start mapping out for a Luas now so things don’t change and we ‘never-never’ the project. That’s the key,” MacCarthy said.