Air Canada’s Toronto-Shannon flight opens new gateway to Ireland’s West Coast

Air Canada is adding a new seasonal non-stop route between Toronto and Shannon, Ireland, giving Canadian travellers direct access to the country’s west coast beginning in summer 2027.

According to Tourism Ireland, the new service will operate from June through October 2027, strengthening air links between Canada and Ireland while positioning Shannon Airport as a convenient gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.

The route will put Canadian travellers within easy reach of some of Ireland’s best-known natural attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, The Burren and Connemara National Park.

The expansion comes as Tourism Ireland reports growing demand from Canada, with the market recording 35 per cent growth over the past three years.

"Canada is a growing overseas market for Ireland with 35 per cent growth in the last three years. Air Canada's announcement of a new non-stop route, strengthens connectivity between our countries, making it easier for returning and new holiday-seekers to experience what Ireland has to offer," said Sandra Bailey Moffatt, country director for Canada at Tourism Ireland, in a statement.

"Shannon Airport is the gateway to the Ireland's west coast, providing access to iconic landscapes, vibrant communities, warm hospitality and, for many a reconnection to ancestral roots."

A gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way

The new flight also provides another option for Canadians looking to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, billed as the world’s longest defined coastal touring route.

Beyond its dramatic landscapes, Ireland’s Atlantic coast has developed a strong culinary reputation, spanning Michelin-starred restaurants, farm and food markets, seafood shaped by generations of fishing traditions and traditional pubs. The region is also closely associated with Irish Coffee, which originated in nearby County Limerick.

Luxury travellers will find centuries-old castles and country estates converted into upscale accommodations, many offering fine dining, extensive grounds and spas.

Golf is another major draw. Ireland is home to more than a third of the world’s natural links courses, with Shannon providing access to courses in Lahinch, Ballybunion, Doonbeg and Tralee.

Adare Manor, which will host the 2027 Ryder Cup, is less than an hour from Shannon Airport and combines luxury accommodations and Michelin-starred dining with access to Adare village.

Where travellers can go from Shannon

Several popular destinations are within a relatively short drive of Shannon Airport.

Limerick is approximately 30 minutes away, with attractions including King John’s Castle, a 40-kilometre Greenway and the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, located at the former airport where Irish Coffee was created.

Galway City is roughly an hour away and is known for its arts and cultural scene, oyster festival and links to the Claddagh ring.

County Tipperary, also about an hour from Shannon, was named among Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 destinations and features attractions including the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle.

Cork City is approximately 90 minutes away and has established itself as one of Ireland’s leading culinary destinations, with a strong community of artisan producers and chefs. It is also a major conference hub.

Killarney, meanwhile, is about two hours from Shannon and serves as one of the traditional starting points for exploring the Ring of Kerry.

Nearby Killarney National Park offers lakes, forests, mountains and other natural landscapes.

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