Dublin Airport’s high-frequency Dublin Express airport to city centre shuttle service returned to the road on Monday 16 August. Services are initially planned to run every 30 minutes from 0400 to 2300hrs, stopping at points throughout the city and offering a fast transfer between the city and Dublin Airport.
Bernard Kavanagh & Sons, one of Ireland’s largest private coach companies, will operate the service on behalf of National Express, having been awarded the contract at the beginning of last year. The new service was suspended shortly after its launch in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic but can now restart with the easing of restrictions and return of air travel.
John Boughton, Managing Director of National Express Ireland, commented: “Covid-19 hit the travel sector hard, but we’re excited to see our covid-secure coaches hit the roads once again, offering great value transfers from right outside the airport terminals.
“We’ve increased the number of stops we now serve with convenient locations throughout the city including George’s Quay, Aston Quay, Wellington Quay, Merchants Quay, Usher’s Quay, Ormond Quay Upper, Eden Quay, and Custom House Quay before arriving at Dublin Airport. As air passenger numbers pick up, we plan to significantly increase frequency.”
The restart has resulted in a recruitment push with a number of vacancies including drivers, customer service advisors and support function roles.
“This is great news for Dublin’s economy. With new services comes job creation. And travel boosts tourism and hospitality. It feels good to be playing a part in getting Dublin’s economy back on its feet.”
Covid-secure measures will also be in place, whilst an array of safety and technology features will provide customers with what the operator calls ‘an unrivalled experience,’ including reclining leather seats, extra legroom, free WiFi and charging sockets.
