Cork Airport is the third busiest of the airports in Ireland after Dublin and Shannon.
Opened in 1961, Cork Airport offers a variety of domestic and international flights, serving as a significant gateway to Munster.
It’s located around a 20-minute spin from Cork City Centre. Below, you’ll find everything you need-to-know.
What to know about Cork Airport
Although a visit to Cork Airport is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.
1. Location
Cork Airport is located on the Kinsale road around a 20-minute drive from the city centre. You’ll reach Kinsale in 25 minutes and Blarney Castle in 30.
2. Parking
The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking facilities. The short-term car park is located close to the terminal, while the long-term parking lot offers a complimentary shuttle service.
3. Amenities
There’s plenty of places to eat before and after you check-in at Cork Airport, like AMT Coffee, Craft Lane Restaurant & Bar, Food Republic and Lemon Pepper.
4. Airlines
Ryanair, Aerlingus, KLM, Air France and Swiss Air all operate flights in/out of Cork Airport.
What to know about arriving in/leaving from Cork Airport
Arriving in and out of Cork Airport is fairly easy in comparison to the likes of Dublin Airport.
However, it’s worth taking note of the below before you fly.
Check-in
Passengers are recommended to check in at least 120 minutes before their flight’s scheduled departure time at Cork Airport.
Security
All of the usual rules (see here) apply when going through security at Cork Airport. The restrictions on liquids and all of the obvious stuff applies here.
Special assistance
If you need special assistance during your visit to Cork Airport, you need to let them know 48 hours in advance,
Transportation
The airport is serviced by taxis, buses, and car rental services for seamless transfers to and from the airport.
The history of Cork Airport
Cork Airport’s opening in 1961 brought about a new era in the South of Ireland’s connectivity with the rest of the world.
The initial single runway and passenger terminal have seen expansions and upgrades over the decades.
In 2006, a new terminal building was unveiled to cater to the increasing passenger numbers.
The airport serves as a significant economic driver for the region, continually adding new routes and services.
Despite challenges such as the economic recession and everything that took place between 2020 and 2023, Cork Airport has displayed resilience, maintaining a diverse array of flight routes and excellent passenger service.
Things to do nearby
Photos via Shutterstock
One of the beauties of Cork Airport is that it’s a short spin away from many of the best places to visit in Cork.
Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from Cork Airport.
1. Cork City Gaol
Cork City Gaol is a striking castle-like building. It was once a prison but it now serves as a museum that offers insight into 19th-century prison life.
2. Blarney Castle and Gardens
This historic Blarney Castle is home to the legendary Blarney Stone. It’s said those who kiss the stone are endowed with the gift of the gab.
3. English Market
This covered market dating back to 1788 is a foodie’s paradise with a range of local and exotic produce.
4. Fota Wildlife Park
Fota Wildlife Park is a fun-filled family attraction featuring a wide variety of animals just outside of the charming town of Cobh.
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.