Tourism Minister Peter Burke has announced an ambitious €77 million project to attract more foreign tourists and extend Ireland’s tourist season, with plans to establish direct flights from India for the first time. The initiative forms part of a comprehensive strategy to promote tourism in regions that have been underserved for years.
Minister Burke confirmed that direct flights will be launched from several countries including Canada, the United States, India, and the United Arab Emirates. While direct flights already exist from Canada, the US, and UAE, India represents a significant new addition to Ireland’s aviation connectivity. The ministry has indicated that direct flights from India could begin this year.
The announcement is part of a broader €4.7 billion capital investment strategy spanning the next five years, forming a key component of the government’s National Development Plan. The comprehensive funding package includes €1.1 billion to support local enterprises, €400 million dedicated to the tourism industry, and €100 million for development sites for semiconductor and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Additional funding will specifically promote Irish tourism in the Indian market.
A new initiative called Start Up Ireland will be established to support Irish tourism companies aspiring to become global brands. The program will provide €300 million to help companies achieve decarbonization goals and €190 million to accelerate adoption of artificial intelligence technology in the tourism sector.
The tourism industry faced challenges last year with declining employment in the hospitality sector, raising concerns about sector sustainability. The government has set an ambitious target of 6% growth in tourism for this year, aiming to revitalize the industry and create employment opportunities.
Minister Burke emphasized the government’s objective to extend the tourist season significantly, ideally running from St. Brigid’s Day (February 1) through Halloween (October 31). This extended season would help distribute tourism benefits more evenly throughout the year, reducing the current heavy concentration during summer months and providing more stable employment for hospitality workers.
The direct India-Ireland flights represent a strategic move to tap into India’s growing outbound tourism market. India’s expanding middle class and increasing disposable income have created a substantial pool of potential tourists seeking European destinations. Ireland aims to position itself as an attractive option for Indian travelers interested in cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and educational tourism.
The initiative also recognizes the existing connections between Ireland and India, including a significant Indian diaspora community in Ireland and growing business ties between the two countries. Direct flights would facilitate both tourism and business travel, strengthening bilateral relationships.
Industry observers note that direct connectivity from India could significantly boost visitor numbers, as the current requirement for connecting flights through European hubs creates a barrier for many potential tourists. Streamlined travel would make Ireland more competitive with other European destinations already offering direct Indian connectivity.