Aer Lingus, Indianapolis and Great Lakes VIP trade partners lunch at the Ivy.

Aer Lingus and Great lakes USA invited key trade, corporate and media partners to celebrate its newest transatlantic route this May, connecting Dublin directly with Indianapolis—one of the United States’ most dynamic mid-western business and cultural hubs.

Don Shearer (Travelbiz and Travelfinders MD) joined Jenny Rafter (Head of Aer Lingus Global Sales) Ivan Beacom, Lynsey Lamont, Alan Molloy (Head of Global Corporate Sales at Aer Lingus) Sarah Lee-Fabi and the Aer Lingus Corporate and OTC team in conjunction with Michelle Mac Beath (Account Manager UK & Ireland) representing Indiana and Great Lakes with Cellet Marketing and Public Relations.

The all-new service marks the only nonstop flight between Indianapolis and Europe, opening new opportunities for the travel trade, businesses, and cultural exchange on both sides of the Atlantic. Indiana serves as a gateway to the magnificent Great Lakes region, offering numerous destinations worth exploring.

Operated by Aer Lingus’ cutting-edge Airbus A321XLR, the route offers greater fuel efficiency, enhanced comfort, and the latest in-flight technology. The service officially begins on May 3, 2025, creating a vital new bridge between Ireland the state of Indiana and the great lakes product offering.

Indianapolis’ vibrant industries and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal match for Dublin’s role as a gateway to Europe, This new route will simplify travel for business and leisure passengers and strengthen both commercial and cultural ties across the Atlantic.

Strengthening Transatlantic Ties

This new connection is about more than just convenience—it reflects deepening ties between Indiana and Ireland. Indiana is currently home to 52 Irish-owned businesses, while Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly recently invested $1.8 billion in facilities in Ireland. In fact, more than 70% of Indiana’s committed capital investment stems from foreign direct investment, underscoring the need for robust international connections like this one.

Why Indianapolis?

Best known as the home of the Indianapolis 500, the world’s largest single-day sporting event, Indy welcomes over 29 million visitors annually and hosts more than 500 national and international events each year.

The city offers something for everyone—from NFL action with the Indianapolis Colts to NBA and WNBA games with the Indiana Pacers and Fever. Beyond the stadiums, Indy blends culture, nature, and urban charm. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail, a ten-mile, two-lane urban pathway, links the city’s cultural districts and landmarks like Monument Circle and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

Nature lovers will enjoy the city’s green spaces and waterways, while art and culture enthusiasts can dive into world-class institutions like The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis—the largest of its kind globally—and Newfields, home to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and lush gardens.

And for foodies? Indy’s culinary scene has garnered James Beard Award recognition, with highlights including the iconic fiery shrimp cocktail at St. Elmo Steak House, a local legend.

Midwest Explored

Carmel Christkindlmarkt: Experience a traditional German holiday market in Carmel, featuring authentic German goods and festive foods.

Exploring the Great Lakes Region

Indiana serves as a gateway to the magnificent Great Lakes region, offering numerous destinations worth exploring:

Traverse City, Michigan: Renowned as the “Napa of the Midwest,” Traverse City offers scenic water views, boutique wineries, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Located in Michigan, this area features towering sand dunes and panoramic views of Lake Michigan.

Saugatuck, Michigan: A charming town known for its art galleries, Oval Beach, and Saugatuck Dunes State Park.

Chicago, Illinois: Situated on Lake Michigan’s shores, Chicago offers a vibrant cultural scene, renowned museums, and the famous Navy Pier.

With Dublin as the gateway to Europe and Indianapolis as a rising U.S. hub, this new route sets the stage for exciting journeys, promising partnerships, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re flying for business, sports, culture, or cuisine—your next transatlantic adventure just got a whole lot easier.