In another sign of the economy returning somewhat to normal, Dublin Airport’s high-frequency Dublin Express city-airport shuttle service returned on Monday 16 August 2021, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.
Services are initially planned to run every 30 minutes from 04.00 to 23.00, stopping at convenient points throughout the city and offering the fastest transfer between the city and Dublin Airport.
Bernard Kavanagh & Sons, Ireland’s largest private coach company, will operate the service on behalf of National Express, the UK’s largest coach operator, which was 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 on the development: “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. And 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.”
Passengers will benefit from a fleet of modern and efficient coaches that meet the latest standards for engine emissions (Euro 6). An array of safety and technology features will provide customers with an unrivalled experience, including reclining leather seats, extra legroom, free WiFi and charging sockets. The latest in technology will provide customers with real time information to track their coach, and easy booking and payment with tap-and-go, contactless ticketing at the airport and an array of digital and mobile channels in multiple languages.
Significant Covid-secure measures will also be in place, including:
- A reduction in the number of seats available on coaches where required
- Enhanced cleaning and provision of hand sanitizer on the coach
- An additional filter on the air conditioning systems of all coaches to reduce bacteria and corona type viruses; and improve air quality
- The requirement for customers to wear face coverings in line with HSA guidelines.
