Air Canada Announces Toronto to Shannon Route, Providing Direct Access to Ireland's West Coast
TORONTO, Sept. 3, 2026 /CNW/ -- Tourism Ireland is pleased to announce that Air Canada is introducing seasonal non-stop service from Toronto, Canada to Shannon, Ireland from June to October 2027. The new route into Shannon Airport will offer the perfect starting point for Ireland's iconic coastal driving route, the Wild Atlantic Way, as well as convenient access to breathtaking natural wonders such as the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, The Burren and Connemara National Park.
"Canada is a growing overseas market for Ireland with +35% growth in the last three years. Air Canada's announcement of a new non-stop route, strengthens connectivity between our countries, making it easier for returning and new holiday-seekers to experience what Ireland has to offer," said Sandra Bailey Moffatt, Country Director for Canada at Tourism Ireland. "Shannon Airport is the gateway to the Ireland's west coast, providing access to iconic landscapes, vibrant communities, warm hospitality and, for many a reconnection to ancestral roots."
The Wild Atlantic Way, the world's longest defined coastal touring route, offers a blend of famed attractions and hidden treasures. Along the Atlantic, visitors can taste and celebrate Ireland's world-class seafood shaped by the coastline and generations of fishing traditions. From Michelin-starred restaurants to local farm and food markets, to cozy pubs serving the famed Irish Coffee, born in nearby County Limerick, visitors become part of the Irish food story.
Embedded within its dreamy landscapes are luxurious accommodations housed inside centuries-old castles and elegant estates. Each offer globally recognized dining experiences, sprawling properties to be explored by foot or bike and high-end restorative spas to indulge in a moment of relaxation.
Home to over a third of the world's natural links courses, the new route offers access to some of Ireland's finest golf courses. Shannon Airport is located near courses in Lahinch, Ballybunion, Doonbeg and Tralee. Less than an hour away, Adare Manor, host of the 2027 Ryder Cup, boasts to elegant rooms, Michelin-starred dining and the charm of Adare village.
Travel Itineraries from Shannon Airport
- Limerick (~30 minutes): A city of stories, Limerick is one of Ireland's oldest and historic cities. Explore King John's Castle, cycle the countryside on its 40km Greenway, or visit Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, a former airport where the Irish Coffee was born.
- Galway City (~1 hour): Named the European Capital of Cultural in 2020, Galway's atmosphere bursts with colour and creativity. It's home to the oldest oyster festival in the world and the Claddagh ring, a traditional Irish symbol of love featuring two hands holding a heart topped with a crown.
- County Tipperary (~1 hour): The county was named one of Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026 and is home to landmarks like the Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle and offers plenty of outdoor adventures.
- Cork City (~1.5 hours): Ireland's food capital, the region is a hotbed for artisan producers and innovative chefs, who have spearheaded the Irish food revolution. It is also a major hub for conferences with world-class venues.
- Killarney (~2 hours): One of the traditional starting points for the Ring of Kerry and home to Killarney National Park, the natural landscapes feature various terrains and picturesque lakes, forests and mountaintops.
About Tourism Ireland
Tourism Ireland is the organization responsible for marketing the island of Ireland overseas as a premier holiday destination. We aim to inspire Canadians to experience Ireland's rich culture, landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique experiences, driving sustainable tourism growth across the island. In 2024, the island of Ireland welcomed approximately 216,000 Canadian visitors, who spent an estimated €344 million, placing Canada among Ireland's top five international tourism markets and as the third-largest source market for visitors to Northern Ireland. Canadian travellers stayed an average of 10.8 nights and spent approximately €1,594 per trip, with nearly 60% of arrivals originating from Ontario, which benefits from year-round daily direct flights to Dublin. Other key Canadian source markets include British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. For more information, visit www.tourismireland.com
SOURCE Tourism Ireland
For more information, please contact: Stephan Petar, Publicity and Communications Executive, [email protected]
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