Cork Airport (ORK/EICK): Ireland’s Fastest-Growing and Award-Winning Gateway
Cork Airport (ORK/EICK) is the premier air transport hub for the entire South of Ireland, holding the status of the nation’s second-busiest international airport. Strategically located just 6.5 km (4 miles) from Cork city centre (51° 50′ 35” N, 8° 29′ 25” W), ORK is the essential starting point for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, and the vibrant culture of County Cork.
Cork Airport has recently been recognised as Europe’s Best Regional Airport and is officially the country’s fastest-growing airport. Having welcomed over 3.07 million passengers in 2024, the airport has continued its record-breaking trajectory, surpassing the 3 million passenger mark significantly earlier in 2025 and is on course for its busiest year ever.
Modern Infrastructure, Amenities, and Passenger Services
Cork Airport operates a single, modern terminal, designed for efficiency, comfort, and a smooth passenger journey. As a continuously improving facility, it focuses on enhancing the travel experience for all demographics.
Key Amenities and Comfort:
- Free High-Speed Wi-Fi access is available throughout the terminal building.
- The Jack Lynch Lounge offers a premium, tranquil space for relaxation or work before a flight.
- An extensive selection of duty-free shopping opportunities.
- Diverse Food & Beverage options, including popular spots like the Red Bar and the Cork Food Market.
- Full Accessibility: The airport is committed to age-friendly initiatives and provides comprehensive services for passengers with reduced mobility.
Accommodation: For convenient stays, travellers can find excellent hotel options immediately near the airport, including the Cork International Hotel and the Radisson Blu Hotel.
A Connected Hub: New Routes, Airlines, and Global Destinations
Cork Airport is a vital link to Europe and beyond, hosting major operations from a diverse group of scheduled and charter carriers. The airport’s 2025 Summer Schedule features over 50 routes to 14 countries, with more than 2.75 million seats on sale.
Main Carriers and Route Highlights:
- Main Airlines: The airport is a key base for Aer Lingus and Ryanair, and also hosts operations from KLM, Air France, SunExpress, and TUI.
- New Routes for 2025: Significant additions to the route network include new services to Bilbao (Aer Lingus), Bordeaux (Aer Lingus), the Greek island of Corfu (TUI), Izmir (SunExpress—marking the first scheduled service to Türkiye), and new winter services to Prague and Geneva (Aer Lingus).
- Top Destinations: Core, high-frequency services connect Cork to major international hubs and sun destinations, with the most popular routes including London Heathrow, London Stansted, Malaga, Faro, and Manchester.
- Year-Round Sun: Ryanair has extended its popular Fuerteventura service to operate year-round, increasing options for winter sun.
Seamless Travel: Transportation and Parking at ORK
Getting to and from Cork Airport is simple and efficient, offering a range of public and private transport options.
- Bus (Bus Éireann): A regular bus service offers a direct link to the city centre, with a journey time of approximately 20 minutes and an average fare of around 3 EUR. The airport is also working with partners to introduce an integrated ticketing initiative for easier travel from surrounding counties like Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Laois.
- Taxi: A taxi ride to the city centre takes about 15 minutes, with fares typically ranging from 15 to 20 EUR.
- Car Rental: Reputable international rental companies are available on-site, including Budget, Sixt, and Enterprise.
- Parking: The airport provides a substantial, dedicated car park with a capacity of 2,000 vehicles, offering short-term and long-term options.
Discover the South: Local Connections and Attractions
Cork Airport provides superb access to the region’s most famous landmarks and dynamic city life.
- Historic Sites: The airport is the ideal gateway to the must-see Blarney Castle, home of the famous Blarney Stone, and the picturesque harbour town of Kinsale.
- City Culture: Visitors can easily reach Cork city attractions such as the vibrant English Market, the historic Shandon Bells at St. Anne’s Church, and the renowned Crawford Art Gallery.
Contact Information:
- Address: Kinsale Road, Co Cork, IRELAND
- Phone: +353 21 4313131
- Website: www.corkairport.com