Dublin ranks as one of Delta’s Top 10 destinations for US travelers

US airline Delta has revealed that Dublin has made its top 10 most-searched-for international destinations for the very first time. 

Delta, which is set to launch a new route from Dublin to Minneapolis in May in addition to a seasonal route from Shannon to JFK, said Dublin ranked eight on the list of most searched international destinations. 

The list reveals destinations that US travelers have been searching for between May and August 2024, with searching for that period up 150% compared to the same period last year. 

Delta said the significant rise in searches for international destinations indicates a strong desire among US passengers for international travel. 

Delta will operate 33 flights to Ireland every week over the summer, connecting passengers with Boston, Atlanta, Minneapolis, and JFK. 

Matteo Curcio, Delta’s Senior Vice President for Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India, said the airline was looking forward to expanding its Irish operations over the summer. 

"We are excited to be expanding our footprint in Ireland next month, offering our customers a new Delta destination and more nonstop and one-stop travel options throughout the Americas from Ireland," Curcio said in a statement. 

"Delta’s convenient schedule between Ireland and the U.S. and the start of these new routes will boost trade and tourism opportunities here in Ireland thanks to thousands more available seats this summer." 

Delta's new Dublin to Minneapolis and Shannon to JFK routes will both operate using Boeing 767-300 aircraft, Delta said in a statement. 

Tourism Ireland data indicates that US holidaymakers are hugely important to the Irish tourism industry, with 72% of US visitors likely to stay longer than visitors from other countries. 

US tourists are more likely to use premium products while in Ireland and spend an average of €900 during their stay, which lasts an average of 8.5 days.