Expanded Routes for the West
Ryanair, Europe’s largest airline, has announced its Winter 2025 schedule for Ireland West Airport Knock, confirming 10 routes across Europe.
The programme includes both winter sun destinations and short city breaks, offering passengers in the West and North-West of Ireland more choice at low-cost fares.
Sunshine Escapes and City Breaks
Among the most popular winter sun routes are Lanzarote, Malaga, and Tenerife, while city break options include Edinburgh, Liverpool, and London.
Flights are already available to book on Ryanair.com, with fares starting from as little as €29.99.
Ryanair Seeks Regional Growth
The airline says the move reflects its ambition to grow operations at regional Irish airports, provided the Government offers more support.
Jade Kirwan, Ryanair’s Director of Communications, stressed the importance of government policy in enabling regional expansion.
Call for Government Backing
Kirwan said the Regional Airports Programme (RAP) for 2026–2030 must be widened to cover airports with up to 3 million passengers annually.
She argued that the current limits restrict regional airports from scaling up without facing penalties.
Statement from Ryanair
“Ryanair is pleased to launch our Winter 2025 schedule for Ireland West Airport Knock, with 10 routes to popular destinations,” Kirwan said.
She added: “This provides our customers in the West of Ireland even more choice at the lowest fares in Europe.”
Knock Airport Responds
Knock Airport’s Managing Director, Joe Gilmore, welcomed the announcement and said the partnership with Ryanair continues to strengthen.
He highlighted that the winter schedule follows on from Knock’s busiest summer season on record.
More UK and European Services
“This winter our customers can choose from ten destinations across the UK and Europe,” Gilmore said.
He pointed to additional flights to Edinburgh, Liverpool, and London, as well as four weekly services to Lanzarote, Malaga, and Tenerife.
Record-Breaking Demand
Knock Airport has recorded steady growth in recent years, positioning itself as a vital hub for the West of Ireland.
The strong demand for winter routes reflects both local holidaymakers’ needs and inbound tourism from the UK and Europe.
Affordable Travel Options
The €29.99 starting fare puts Ryanair’s Knock services among the most competitively priced in Europe.
The airline says it will continue to offer low fares despite pressures from rising airport and operational costs.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Gilmore said Knock aims to continue expanding its reach in 2026 as Ryanair grows its fleet and network.
“We look forward to building on this schedule and thank Ryanair for their continued support of the airport and the West of Ireland region,” he added.
Regional Growth Strategy
Ryanair has consistently argued that regional airports should be supported through national aviation policy.
Industry analysts say extending RAP eligibility could help Knock and similar airports unlock new international markets.
Passenger Benefits
For passengers, the expanded schedule means shorter travel times, greater choice, and easier access to both leisure and business destinations.
Ryanair believes its investment in Knock demonstrates confidence in the region’s long-term potential.