In a move that reaffirms its growing transatlantic ambitions, Aer Lingus has announced a new direct flight connecting Dublin Airport (DUB) with Indianapolis International Airport (IND). Starting on May 3, 2025, this route will be the first transatlantic service for Indianapolis since Delta Air Lines ceased its Paris (CDG) flights in 2020. This expansion underscores the airline’s commitment to connecting more U.S. cities to its Dublin hub, which serves as a key gateway for passengers traveling to and from Europe.
Route Details and Schedule
The new Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to Indianapolis will operate four times a week, with departures scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The Irish carrier plans to deploy the Airbus A321XLR for this route. The A321XLR is a long-range, single-aisle aircraft that offers both business and economy class configurations. It is ideally suited for transatlantic flights, offering fuel efficiency, extended range, and an enhanced passenger experience.
The A321XLR features lie-flat seats in business class, high-speed Wi-Fi, in-flight entertainment, and additional seating options for economy travelers, making it competitive with widebody aircraft on similar routes. With a range of nearly 5,000 miles, the A321XLR can efficiently handle this 3,600-mile journey, making it perfect for connecting Midwest travelers to Dublin and beyond.
Filling a Long-Haul Void in Indianapolis
Indianapolis has been without transatlantic service since March 2020, when Delta Airlines discontinued its flights to Paris due to the pandemic’s effects on demand. The city has long been seeking to reestablish long-haul connectivity, and the new Aer Lingus route will fill this gap, providing direct access to Europe and enabling one-stop connections to over 100 European destinations via Dublin. This route is expected to boost both leisure and business travel from Indiana to Europe, offering local businesses easier access to international markets.
Indianapolis International Airport has been aggressively working to restore long-haul service, offering incentives and partnerships to attract airlines. The airport is already home to limited international service, including Air Canada’s flights to Toronto and American Airlines and Southwest Airlines’ routes to Cancun. The addition of Aer Lingus marks a significant milestone for the airport, bringing back crucial transatlantic connectivity.
Aer Lingus’ Growing U.S. Network
This new service between Indianapolis and Dublin is part of a broader expansion strategy by Aer Lingus to tap into high-potential U.S. markets. The airline, which currently serves 17 U.S. cities, has been steadily adding new routes, particularly in the Midwest. Recent additions to its network include cities such as Cleveland (CLE) and Denver (DEN). Indianapolis will become the 18th U.S. destination for Aer Lingus, further solidifying its position as a key player in transatlantic travel.
Aer Lingus’ focus on U.S. expansion is fueled by the rising demand for both leisure and business travel across the Atlantic. By leveraging Dublin as a central hub, the airline is able to offer seamless connections to cities throughout Europe, including the UK, France, Germany, and more. This strategy not only increases its U.S. footprint but also enhances Ireland’s role as a convenient gateway for passengers traveling to Europe.
Economic and Business Impacts
The reintroduction of transatlantic service to Indianapolis is expected to have significant economic benefits for the region. Transatlantic connectivity is critical for business growth, enabling Indiana-based companies to establish and strengthen their ties with European partners. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, technology, and manufacturing are likely to benefit from easier access to European markets. Additionally, the new route will attract European tourists and expatriates, boosting the local economy through increased tourism and spending.
As Indianapolis International Airport continues to grow, the addition of long-haul services like Aer Lingus’ new route will further enhance its status as a key aviation hub in the Midwest. The airport is consistently ranked among the top U.S. airports for passenger experience and efficiency, making it an attractive option for airlines looking to expand their networks.
