Private bus and coach operator Aircoach plans to increase its direct services between Belfast city centre and Dublin Airport and city with an additional eight daily express services from Sunday March 24.
And the company, a subsidiary of First Group plc, is also introducing a new stop at the Maghera park and ride facility on the Glenshane Road on the popular 705X express route between Derry and Belfast International Airport, Dublin Airport, and Dublin’s O’Connell Street.
The enhanced connectivity will mean Aircoach - which later this month celebrates its 25th anniversary - now offers the most services of any coach operator between Dublin and Belfast.
The introduction of the additional Belfast/Dublin express services means passengers will be able to avail of 17 coach journeys each way, each day, with advance bookings now open online at www.aircoach.ie and on the Aircoach app with tickets from £12
Kim Swan, managing director of Aircoach, which in 2022 acquired Derry bus operator Airporter, said: “We are committed to ensuring connectivity for local people and visitors across this island by providing reliable, convenient, and cost-effective public transport options.
“The introduction of these additional services between Belfast and Dublin means we are enhancing that vital connectivity and choice for passengers and that Aircoach is now providing the widest array of vital services between these two key cities and their airports.
“I’m also delighted we can now offer the first Maghera stop for Aircoach on our popular 705X route.
“Passengers in the Mid Ulster area can now benefit from a direct route to the main airports and cities on this island, and onwards if they wish, through our extensive coach network.
“Both of these developments mark a significant milestone for Aircoach as we reinforce our position as Ireland’s favourite coach operator ahead of our 25th anniversary later this month.”