Emerald Airlines

Emerald Airlines (ICAO: EAI) is an Irish regional airline that operates as the exclusive franchise partner for Aer Lingus Regional. The airline focuses on providing regional connectivity across Ireland, the UK, and France, with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and customer service.

Emerald Airlines was founded in May 2020 by Conor McCarthy, with operations commencing on February 26, 2022. The airline quickly became the operator of the Aer Lingus Regional franchise in August 2021, and officially launched franchised flights on March 17, 2022. Its main operational base is Dublin Airport (DUB), and it also maintains an operational base at George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD).

The airline operates a fleet consisting exclusively of ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft. As of late 2024, its active fleet comprises 12 ATR 72-600 aircraft, with a total of 18 including stored/scrapped aircraft. Emerald Airlines maintains an extensive regional network, flying over 800 flights per week across approximately 30 routes throughout Ireland, the UK, and France. Key destinations include routes to and from cities like Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, and Donegal. Emerald Airlines is not a member of any major airline alliance. The airline offers regional and international flights, private charter services, ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations, and aircraft leasing, priding itself on delivering a premium airline service. The ATR 72-600 aircraft typically seat up to 72 passengers.