Transatlantic Travel Takes Off from Shannon Airport for Summer 2026
Delta and United summer schedules return with 95,000 seats to New York and Chicago
Monday 18th May 2026: Transatlantic travel from Shannon Airport strengthens this week with the return of two key seasonal routes, significantly boosting capacity to the US for Summer 2026. Shannon Airport will offer 40 routes this year to the UK, Europe and the US – its largest schedule in 17 years.
From this Friday 22nd May, United Airlines’ non-stop service to Chicago O’Hare resumes, followed on Saturday 23rd May by Delta’s service to New York–JFK. Both routes will operate daily, reinforcing Shannon’s position as a leading gateway between Ireland and North America.
Delta’s JFK service offers over 51,000 seats for the summer, while United’s Chicago route adds a further 44,000 seats. These services bring total transatlantic seat capacity via Shannon Airport to 340,000 for the summer season, representing a 5% increase on the same period last year.
Across the full year in 2026, passengers travelling between Shannon and the United States will have a choice of 2,300 flights and over 420,000 seats. The seasonal services relaunching this week complement Aer Lingus’ and United Airlines’ year round routes to Boston and New York. Aer Lingus will also increase capacity on its Boston service, with additional frequencies operating from 20th May to 13th July, expanding from 7 to 10 flights per week and providing almost 9,000 additional seats.
Speaking ahead of the resumption of the US summer schedule, Ray O’Driscoll, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, said: “It’s fantastic to see the return of the Delta - JFK and United - Chicago routes for the summer. Transatlantic services play a central role in Shannon Airport’s offering, and these services complete a strong network of year round routes to the US.
“These flights are also hugely important for the region, bringing thousands of US visitors directly into the West of Ireland, particularly during the peak summer months. This connectivity supports our vital tourism and hospitality industries right across the country.”
Passengers travelling from Shannon also benefit from using the airport’s full US Preclearance facility, saving time and arriving in the United States as domestic passengers. In addition, the free Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app allows eligible travellers to complete part of the process in advance, making the experience even quicker and more convenient.
As passenger numbers across its entire route network continue to grow, Shannon Airport has invested significantly in enhancing its facilities and overall travel experience. The addition of 1,000 new spaces in the Park4Less car park provides customers with greater flexibility across both short stay and long stay options, with all car parks located within a short seven minute walk of the terminal.
The airport’s security screening technology allows passengers to keep liquids and gels of 100ml or less, together with electronic devices, in their bags, speeding up the security process and making the airport journey smoother for families, holidaymakers and business travellers.
Ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment for all passengers remains a core priority at Shannon Airport. A range of age friendly services, a dedicated Sensory Room and full participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme help ensure passengers with additional or unseen needs feel supported and comfortable throughout their journey.
Passengers can find full details of the 2026 schedule, parking options, US Preclearance, accessibility supports and travel services at www.shannonairport.ie.