Ireland Witnesses 4.2% Surge in International Arrivals, Exceeding Pre-Pandemic Levels
Ireland experienced a remarkable rebound in international tourism, with a 4.2% increase in arrivals during April, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This surge in visitors signifies a significant recovery in passenger numbers since the implementation of travel restrictions. Let’s delve into the statistics and explore the factors driving this resurgence.
Robust Recovery in Air Travel
According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the surge in arrivals was predominantly fueled by air travel, which witnessed the most notable increase. In April alone, over 1.78 million people traveled to Ireland from various countries, reflecting a year-on-year surge of 21%.
Regional Airports Witness a Surge
The Irish Examiner‘s recent report highlights the soaring demand for overseas travel, with passenger numbers at regional airports surging by more than 39%. This significant growth can be attributed to the increased demand since 2019, showcasing a sustained recovery.
Did you know?
- The Central Statistics Office reveals that transatlantic travel experienced a remarkable growth rate of over 40%, emphasizing the recovery spreading across all major air routes.
Spain Remains a Popular Travel Destination
Among the continental routes, Spain continues to stand out as a favorite travel destination. In the past month alone, nearly a quarter of a million passengers arrived on these routes, marking a surge of just under 25%. The allure of Spain’s vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes continues to captivate travelers.
United Kingdom’s Preference for Ireland
In April, Ireland emerged as the preferred destination for citizens from the United Kingdom, with a total of 634,500 travelers reaching the country by both air and sea routes. The appeal of Ireland’s rich heritage and breathtaking scenery continues to entice British travelers.
Positive Outlook for Irish Airlines
Not only did international arrivals surge, but local Irish airlines also experienced an upturn in passenger numbers. Ryanair, for instance, reported after-tax profits of over €1.4 billion last week. Moreover, the airline anticipates a further 10% increase in passenger numbers, projecting a total of 185 million passengers.
Strong Recovery and Pre-Pandemic Comparison
The Central Statistics Office’s data highlights the significant growth in visitor numbers during the first few months of this year. In February alone, arrivals to Ireland increased by an impressive 56% compared to the same period last year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels recorded in February 2020.
The Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC) reports that a total of seven million international visitors traveled to Ireland last year, signifying a remarkable 73% recovery compared to the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. Additionally, mainland Europe emerged as the most significant source market, attracting 1.5 million North American visitors who explored the country’s diverse offerings.
Conclusion
Ireland’s tourism industry is experiencing a robust recovery, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in international arrivals. The surge in passenger numbers, particularly in air travel, indicates a positive outlook for the industry. With the enchanting allure of Ireland’s landscapes, heritage, and warm hospitality, the country continues to captivate travelers from around the world.
