Travellers at Cork Airport were treated to a special welcome today, marking the first flight on the facility’s new winter route to the Czech Republic.
The first complement of passengers, travelling on Aer Lingus’ EL832 flight to Václav Havel Airport in Prague, took off from Cork Airport shortly after 8am.
Prior to boarding, passengers were treated to a special celebration at the boarding gate, given Fidorka, a traditional Czech chocolate wafer snack as they waited.
The inaugural celebration was attended by H.E. Pavel Vošalík, who is the ambassador of the Czech Republic to Ireland, and Katarina Hobbs, who is the director of Czech Tourism UK & Ireland.
The service, operating every Thursday and Sunday, has been described by the facility as a perfect destination for long weekend getaways between now and March, 2026.
The Prague route is the first of two new Aer Lingus routes from Cork Airport this winter, with a new weekly service to Geneva commencing on December 20.
Head of aviation business development & communications at Cork Airport, Tara Finn said that Prague is “a truly magical city, especially in the wintertime”.
“We’re delighted to have worked with Aer Lingus to establish this new service, connecting another European capital city,” said Ms Finn.
“The new twice-weekly service is a fantastic option for weekend city breaks and we’re confident it will be a huge hit with our customers across Munster and South Leinster.”
Mr Vošalík said this new service between Cork and Prague “allows us to be again a bit closer to each other”.
“They say that Irish and Czechs share a similar sense of humour,” said Mr Vošalík.
“Let’s write our new stories, let’s enjoy the various cultural and leisure activities both countries offer, and make new friendships.
“From Czech music festival “Colours of Ostrava”, to walks in beautiful Irish countryside – from Cork Film Festival to film festival in Karlovy Vary – from picturesque streets of Cork to medieval historical sites of Prague – from Guinness to Pilsner Urquell – thank you, Aer Lingus.”
Ms Hobbs added that the new route is “so convenient and a fantastic opportunity for Irish holidaymakers”.
“They can now easily explore Prague’s beautiful capital, rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture – but the adventure doesn’t have to end in Prague!
“The city offers excellent transport links, making it easy for our Irish friends to venture beyond the usual tourist spots and discover hidden gems across the country.
“We’re looking forward to seeing many new visitors from Ireland and they’ll be sure to receive a warm welcome.”