Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport have recently announced the addition of new routes to the United States through a partnership with Aer Lingus. The airline has revealed its plans to expand its network of long-haul flights in the upcoming year.

One of the new routes will connect Scotland to Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina, providing direct access to the region for the first time. The service is set to begin in April 2026 and will operate five times a week, using the new Airbus A321 XLR aircraft. This route marks Aer Lingus’ 26th destination in North America and will be available throughout the year.

Aer Lingus has highlighted the significance of this new route, as it holds historical ties to the early migration of Scots and Irish to the United States. CEO Lynne Embleton stated, “We’re thrilled to include Raleigh-Durham International Airport in our growing network in North America. It’s a dynamic and prosperous region with strong connections to Ireland, which will only be strengthened by our direct service.

In addition to the new route, Aer Lingus has also announced plans for further growth and expansion in 2026. This includes increased frequency on established routes and the addition of more destinations. Nashville and Indianapolis, which were launched earlier this year, will see an increase in flights, while popular cities such as New York, Boston, and Orlando will also have a stronger schedule.

President and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, Michael Landguth, expressed his excitement for the new partnership, stating, “Dublin is a highly sought-after international destination for travelers in the Research Triangle region, and we are honored that Aer Lingus has selected RDU for this nonstop service. The new flight will provide a convenient and efficient way for tourists, businesses, and students to travel to Ireland and beyond.

Passengers can now book flights directly to North Carolina, adding to the growing list of destinations available through Aer Lingus’ expanding network. For more updates and news, follow us on Facebook and X, and never miss the latest headlines by signing up for our daily newsletter.