Travelbiz E-Zine
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4
June
2026
Rocky Mountain High… Denver, Colorado Direct with Aer Lingus
“Mr Travelbiz” Don Shearer joined Yvonne Muldoon (Director of Sales, Aer Lingus), Ivan Beacom (Business Development Manager, Aer Lingus), Laura Jackson (VP Air Service Development, Denver International Airport) and Harriet Ball, representing Colorado in Ireland and the UK, to celebrate Aer Lingus’ direct Dublin–Denver service and the exciting milestone of Colorado marking its 150th anniversary in 2026.

Hosted at the stylish Brookwood Restaurant on Baggot Street, Dublin, the special celebratory dinner brought together key media and travel trade partners to hear the latest updates from one of North America’s most exciting and diverse destinations. Now entering its third successful year, the Aer Lingus direct service continues to strengthen ties between Ireland and Colorado while creating significant opportunities for Irish travel agents and tour operators.

Colorado’s 150th anniversary provides the perfect backdrop for promoting the destination throughout 2026. The state is planning a year-long programme of celebrations showcasing its rich history, pioneering spirit, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions and vibrant cities. For the Irish market, there is an added dimension, with deep-rooted Irish heritage woven throughout Colorado’s story. Thousands of Irish immigrants helped shape Denver and the wider state during the 19th century, and today those connections remain strong through cultural organisations, business links and tourism partnerships.

Having personally experienced the route with Aer Lingus and trade partners, Don had the opportunity to fly direct from Dublin to Denver aboard the airline’s impressive Airbus A330, enjoying the comfort, convenience and renowned Aer Lingus hospitality that makes this route such an attractive proposition for Irish holidaymakers.
Denver serves as the perfect gateway to the Rocky Mountains and beyond. From the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park and world-class ski resorts to craft breweries, music venues, luxury ranch experiences, wellness retreats and thriving culinary scenes, Colorado offers year-round appeal across multiple market segments.

Both Yvonne Muldoon and Laura Jackson highlighted the tremendous opportunities the direct Aer Lingus service presents for the Irish travel trade. Operating throughout the summer season into September on the wide-body Airbus A330, the route provides agents with a unique long-haul product, seamless connectivity and a destination that combines city breaks, fly-drive adventures, outdoor exploration and luxury experiences all in one itinerary.
With Colorado celebrating 150 years and Aer Lingus continuing to connect Ireland directly to Denver, there has never been a better time for the Irish travel trade to feature, package and promote this spectacular destination.
Colorado 150. Denver Direct. Endless Possibilities for the Irish Travel Trade.
Aer Lingus Dublin–Denver
Gateway to the Rockies
Strong Irish Heritage
Colorado Celebrates 150 Years in 2026
Outstanding Opportunities for Travel Agents & Tour Operators
Travelbiz