Aer Lingus launched its new direct route from Dublin to Nashville, with the inaugural flight departing on Saturday, April 12, 2025. EIN77/6 service operate four times a week, marks a significant expansion of the airline’s North American network. The first flight was operated by Airbus A321-253NY(XLR), (msn 11348), registration EI-XLR, named St Lelia / Liadhain.
Nashville, known as one of the top 30 metropolitan areas in the U.S., presents a valuable opportunity for Aer Lingus to further strengthen its position as a leading carrier across the Atlantic. The city is renowned not only for its music scene but also as a burgeoning business and cultural hub, making it a key destination for both leisure and corporate travelers.
With approximately 10% of Tennesseans claiming Irish ancestry, the new route is also expected to appeal to those looking to reconnect with their roots. This cultural connection provides a unique opportunity for Aer Lingus to tap into the growing demand for heritage-based travel, catering to both tourists and those with family ties to Ireland.
Aer Lingus Chief Executive Officer, said: “There has been huge anticipation around this new route on both sides of the Atlantic, with Nashville now one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. Nashville’s mass appeal makes it an attractive new destination as Aer Lingus continues to become a bigger airline, flying 22 transatlantic routes this summer and strengthening our position as a leader across the Atlantic.
The new route to Nashville is a milestone for the airline, enabling us to advance our ambitions and reach further into the US, flying to previously unserved markets in North America, including Indianapolis, which commences in May. The new Airbus A321 XLR, with its extended range, and our geographic position on the Western edge of Europe opens up exciting new destinations and opportunities for Aer Lingus, and most importantly for our customers. Aer Lingus’ new Dublin – Nashville route delivers further connectivity through our Dublin Hub, providing a direct connection between Europe and Nashville.”
Nashville International Airport president and CEO Doug Kreulen, said “We are thrilled to welcome Aer Lingus to Nashville, marking an exciting new chapter in the strong relationship we’ve built with Ireland. This new nonstop connection between Dublin and Music City strengthens the bond between our communities and celebrates the cultural ties we share. Nashville’s legendary music scene and rich heritage make it a must-visit destination for Irish travelers eager to experience the heart of country music. We look forward to sharing our Southern hospitality and deep-rooted passion for live entertainment with visitors from Ireland as they explore everything our city has to offer.”
Aer Lingus’ new Nashville route will be the first to fully utilise the Airbus A321XLR aircraft’s extended flying range, enabling the advance of Aer Lingus further into the US and opening up previously unserved destinations. The new route will enhance direct connectivity between US cities and Europe via the Aer Lingus Dublin Hub, catering to the needs of a growing city and its businesses. This service is set to drive strong demand, offering seamless links from Dublin to major European destinations such as London, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris.
Image Credit: Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Irish Aviation Research Institute © 13 April 2025 All Rights Reserved
