Aer Lingus will launch a daily route from Heathrow to Knock’s Ireland West Airport, starting on 26 March.

It replaces the current Aer Lingus Gatwick to Knock service, which ends on 25 March and will see the airline’s customers already booked on the route automatically rebooked on a same day flight at no additional cost.

Aer Lingus expects switching the service from Gatwick to Heathrow will drive additional point-to-point demand and increased connecting traffic.

Chief Strategy and Planning Officer Reid Moody said: “Our new route from Heathrow to Knock, accompanied with further network connectivity for our customers, is exciting for Aer Lingus and for the West of Ireland.

“With a direct service to one of Europe’s busiest airports, customers from the West will now be able to easily connect from Heathrow to destinations right across the globe. 

“The service will also drive inbound tourism at a time when interest in visiting the West of Ireland is very high, with the Oscar nominated Banshees of Inisherin showcasing the beauty of the West of Ireland to millions of people globally.” 

Ireland West Airport Managing Director Joe Gilmore said: “The airport is absolutely delighted to welcome today’s announcement of a new daily service to London Heathrow with Aer Lingus.

“This is a major development for the West and Northwest regions as it opens key onward connectivity, through one of Europe’s biggest hubs, to over 80 destinations worldwide.”