Overview
Donegal Airport (IATA: CFN), also known locally as Carrickfinn Airport, is a regional airfield perched on the Atlantic‑kissed coastline of north‑west Ireland. The terminal sits in the townland of Carrickfinn, a short 15‑minute drive from the seaside towns of Dungloe and Gweedore and about 45 minutes from Letterkenny. Its runway faces the open sea, giving passengers a world‑renowned view of the wild Atlantic Way, the blue‑green mountains of Donegal and the iconic silhouette of Mount Errigal. The airport is the primary air gateway for the Gaeltacht region, providing a convenient link for both leisure and business travellers.
History
The airfield opened officially in March 1978 to serve a nearby IDA industrial estate, initially as a grass strip. By the mid‑1980s a hard‑surface runway and temporary terminal were in place, and passenger services began on Christmas Eve 1985 with flights to Glasgow operated by Malinair. Over the following decades the runway was extended – first to 1 500 m in 1989 and again in the early 1990s – and a modern terminal with navigational aids was completed in 1992‑93.
A succession of airlines – Malinair, Air Ecosse, Loganair, Ryanair, Macair, Gill Airways and Ireland Airways – have operated routes to the United Kingdom and mainland Ireland. Since 1996 a Public Service Obligation (PSO) route to Dublin has run continuously, most recently under Emerald Airlines on behalf of Aer Lingus Regional. The airport’s reputation for spectacular landings was cemented when it was voted the world’s most scenic airport in the PrivateFly poll for three consecutive years (2018‑2020).
What to See & Do
While the airport itself is modest, its surroundings are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.
- Carrickfinn Beach – just a stone’s throw from the runway, this blue‑flag beach offers golden sand, clear turquoise water and spectacular sunrise views over the Atlantic.
- Glenveagh National Park – a 30‑minute drive inland, the park boasts rugged mountains, pristine lakes and the historic Glenveagh Castle.
- Slieve League Cliffs – among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, they provide dramatic panoramas that rival the Cliffs of Moher.
- Mount Errigal – the iconic conical peak dominates the skyline; a moderate hike rewards walkers with sweeping vistas of the county.
- Gaeltacht Culture – the airport sits in the heart of the Irish‑speaking region; visitors can hear Irish spoken in cafés, shops and on signage.
- Café Bar Carraigfhinne – located inside the terminal, the café offers hot drinks, light snacks and an outdoor seating area with runway views.
For those seeking adventure beyond the terminal, the Discover Ireland site lists sea‑kayaking tours, boat safaris and island charters that launch from nearby ports, giving you a chance to explore the remote islands of Tory, Arranmore and Gola.
Nearby Attractions
- Ballymastocker Bay – a Blue Flag beach renowned for its crystal‑clear waters and dramatic cliffs, just a short drive north of the airport.
- Bundoran – a popular surf town with a lively promenade, historic lighthouse and a range of water‑sport facilities, reachable in about 30 minutes by car.
- Assaranca Waterfall – a hidden cascade set in a lush forest, ideal for a short walk and photo‑op.
- Banba’s Crown – Ireland’s northernmost point, offering sweeping sea views and a sense of remote solitude.
Practical Information
Flights & Timetables
The airport is served by two scheduled carriers:
| Airline | Destination | Frequency | Typical Departure (Donegal) | Typical Arrival (Donegal) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald Airlines (Aer Lingus Regional) | Dublin | Twice daily (Mon‑Sun) | 06:25, 18:50 | 08:00, 20:30 |
| Loganair | Glasgow International | 3‑4 times weekly (Apr‑Oct) | 09:10 (Fri), 10:40 (Fri) | 10:10 (Fri), 11:40 (Fri) |
All times are local and are subject to seasonal adjustment; the latest timetable is effective from 29 March 2026.
Getting to and from the Airport
- Car hire – Enterprise operates a desk in the terminal; advance booking is recommended, especially in summer.
- Taxi – Local taxi firms are on standby; a typical ride to Dungloe or Gweedore takes about 15 minutes.
- Parking – Short‑term (first 2 hours) parking is free, making pick‑ups easy. Long‑term spaces are available at a modest daily rate.
- Public transport – No regular bus service reaches the airport; most visitors rely on private hire or rental cars.
- Accessibility – The terminal is wheelchair‑accessible, with ramps, tactile flooring and accessible restrooms.
Facilities
- Café Bar Carraigfhinne – coffee, tea, pastries and a small hot‑meal menu.
- Shop – souvenirs, travel essentials and local crafts.
- ATM & Wi‑Fi – free Wi‑Fi throughout the terminal and an ATM for cash withdrawals.
- Information desk – staffed with multilingual personnel who can arrange local tours and provide maps.
Contact & Useful Links
- Phone: +353 74 954 8284
- Email: info@donegalairport.ie
- Website: Donegal Airport
- Social: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
- Map: Google Maps
Seasonal Highlights
During the summer months the airport runs special promotional packages that combine flight tickets with accommodation and activity vouchers – see the Special Offers page on the official site. The airport’s proximity to the Wild Atlantic Way makes it an ideal base for weekend road trips, coastal hikes and cultural festivals held in Dungloe and Gweedore.
Donegal Airport may be small, but its dramatic runway, friendly staff and unrivalled scenery make it a memorable start (or finish) to any Irish adventure. Whether you’re flying in for a weekend of sea‑kayaking, a cultural immersion in the Gaeltacht, or simply to experience one of the world’s most photographed landings, the airport welcomes you with a warm Irish smile and a view you’ll never forget.