Donegal Airport (CFN/EIDL): Your Gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way & The World’s Most Scenic Approach
Donegal Airport (CFN), officially known in Irish as Aerfort Dhún na nGall, is a crucial regional airport nestled in the picturesque Carrickfinn area of County Donegal, approximately 45 km (28 miles) from the principal town of Letterkenny.
CFN is globally celebrated, having been repeatedly voted the “World’s Most Scenic Airport Approach” by PrivateFly surveys, a title it has secured multiple times, including its initial win in 2018. This breathtaking approach showcases the rugged North West coastline, the Atlantic Ocean, and the iconic Mount Errigal, providing an unforgettable start to any journey along the Wild Atlantic Way. The airport is a key lifeline for residents and a premier entry point for international tourism into this stunning Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) region.
General Information, Key Statistics, and Sustainability Leadership
Donegal Airport is a strategically important facility supporting balanced regional development and providing essential connectivity.
- IATA/ICAO Codes: CFN/EIDL
- Location: Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh, Co Donegal. The airport is approximately 15 minutes from Dungloe and Gweedore, and 45 minutes from Letterkenny.
- Passenger Growth: The airport successfully served 50,530 passengers in the most recent reporting year (2024 figures cited), reflecting a robust 21% increase in traffic and underlining its growing significance as a travel hub.
- Sustainability Milestone: Donegal Airport is a national leader in environmental commitment. It became the first Irish airport to achieve Level 4 Transformation in the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme. This recognizes the airport’s success in achieving its target of a 70.6% reduction in its Scope 1 and 2 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions well ahead of its 2030 goal, demonstrating a strong commitment to Net Zero ambitions.
Airlines, Routes, and Essential Connectivity (Updated for 2025/2026)
The airport’s focus is on maintaining essential regional links through key Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes and providing seasonal international services.
| Airline | Destination | Route Details & Significance |
| Aer Lingus Regional (Operated by Emerald Airlines) | Dublin (DUB) | This essential PSO route provides up to two daily return flights, crucial for same-day business, medical, and administrative travel. The service has been extended until at least February 2026 and offers seamless through-fares and luggage transfers to the wide Aer Lingus transatlantic network (US/Canada). |
| Loganair | Glasgow International (GLA) | Provides convenient direct access to Scotland, catering to the significant links between the North West of Ireland and the Scottish community. Services typically run up to five times weekly. |
Future Outlook: The Irish Department of Transport has initiated the tender process for a new four-year PSO contract for the Donegal-Dublin route, ensuring continuous air service provision beyond the current contract’s expiry in early 2026.
Terminal Services and Passenger Amenities
Donegal Airport operates a single, modern terminal designed for efficiency and a welcoming passenger experience.
- Dining and Retail: Passengers can relax at Café Bar Carraigfhinne (also known as Café Bar Carraig Fhinne), which offers a full range of hot and cold food, snacks, and beverages. A small retail area provides souvenirs, newspapers, and travel essentials.
- Premium Facilities: The Amelia Earhart Lounge offers a quiet, relaxed pre-flight environment, featuring complimentary refreshments and Wi-Fi access (accessible for a fee).
- Core Services: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Additional services include a Tourist Information Desk, an ATM, and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) which should be pre-arranged with the operating airline.
Ground Transportation Options
Given the airport’s rural setting, road transport is key to accessing the surrounding areas of the Rosses and the wider County Donegal.
| Mode of Transport | Details | Estimated Cost & Duration (to Letterkenny) |
| Car Rental | Highly recommended for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way. On-site partners include Enterprise and YuKÓ Car Rental, with a courtesy shuttle available to the terminal. | N/A (Highly variable based on rental duration) |
| Taxi | Taxi services are available, but pre-booking is strongly advised, especially for early morning or late evening arrivals. | Approx. €50–€60 / 40 minutes |
| Bus | Bus Éireann operates scheduled services, connecting the airport to Letterkenny and other key locations. | Approx. €5 / 45 minutes |
| Parking | A large, secure passenger car park is located opposite the terminal. The first two hours are free for quick drop-offs and pick-ups, with competitive long-term rates available. | Capacity for 500 vehicles |
Contact Information
For official inquiries, please use the following details:
| Contact Information | Details |
| Address | Carrickfinn, Kincasslagh, Letterkenny, Co Donegal, IRELAND |
| Phone | +353 74 9548284 |
| Website | www.donegalairport.ie |