EasyJet Launches New Belfast International Routes to Rome and Sharm El Sheikh
EasyJet has announced two new direct routes from Belfast International Airport: twice-weekly flights to Rome Fiumicino starting 26 October 2026, and a new winter service to Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt from 25 October 2026 — a significant boost for Northern Ireland's travel industry and a direct response to passenger demand for routes that have previously required connections through other UK airports.
The announcement on 24 April 2026 makes EasyJet the only airline offering direct services from Belfast International to both destinations, and forms part of a broader expansion by the carrier that includes nine new routes across the UK for the winter 2026 season.
Background
Belfast International Airport has been on a significant growth trajectory in recent years. In 2024, the airport handled over 6.7 million passengers — a 13% increase from 2023 and the highest number in its history. The airport, owned and operated by Vinci Airports, has invested heavily in its infrastructure, with a £100 million programme that included a new security hall with advanced scanning technology, allowing passengers to pass through without removing liquids or electronics from their hand luggage.
EasyJet is the largest user of Belfast International, already operating twelve domestic routes and twenty-three direct European scheduled routes from the airport. The carrier serves over 55 routes to 45 destinations across Europe and North Africa from its three Northern Ireland airports — Belfast International, Belfast City, and City of Derry Airport — making it the dominant low-cost carrier in the region's aviation market.
The new routes respond to longstanding passenger demand. Rome has consistently been one of the most requested destinations from Belfast International, while Sharm El Sheikh fills a gap in the market for direct winter sun access from Northern Ireland, according to Flying in Ireland's coverage of the announcement.
Key Developments
The Rome Fiumicino service will operate twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays, with one-way fares starting from £28.99 inclusive of taxes — making it one of the most affordable direct connections to the Italian capital available from any UK regional airport. The Sharm El Sheikh service will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays, with fares from £118.99, and will be the only direct connection between Northern Ireland and the Red Sea resort.
EasyJet holidays will offer package deals for both destinations, including flights, hotel accommodation, and — for Sharm El Sheikh — 23kg luggage and transfers. Packages can be secured with a deposit of £60 per person, according to Belfast Live's reporting on the new routes.
Kate Sherry, Chief Commercial Officer at Belfast International Airport, highlighted that Rome was a highly requested route and that Sharm El Sheikh would be popular for winter getaways. Kevin Doyle, EasyJet's UK Country Manager, emphasised that the new routes provide more choice and connectivity for customers seeking winter sun or European city breaks at affordable prices.
Why It Matters
The announcement matters for Northern Ireland's travel industry and for the broader economy. Direct routes reduce the time and cost of travel for passengers who would otherwise need to connect through London, Manchester, or Dublin — a significant quality-of-life improvement for frequent travellers and a competitive advantage for Northern Ireland as a business destination. The tourism sector, which has been growing strongly in recent years, will benefit from improved connectivity that makes it easier for visitors to reach Belfast and the wider region.
The expansion also reflects growing confidence in the Northern Ireland travel market. Airlines make route decisions based on commercial analysis of demand and profitability, and EasyJet's decision to add two new routes from Belfast International signals that the carrier sees strong growth potential in the region. That confidence, in turn, is likely to attract further investment in the airport and its route network.
Local Impact
For Belfast passengers, the new routes offer genuine practical benefits. The direct Rome service will be particularly valuable for the city's growing Italian community, for business travellers with connections to Rome, and for tourists who want to explore one of Europe's great cities without the hassle and cost of a connecting flight. The Sharm El Sheikh service addresses a clear gap in the market: Northern Ireland has historically had limited direct access to Red Sea resorts, forcing passengers to travel to London or Dublin for winter sun breaks. The new service will save passengers several hours of travel time and, in many cases, significant money.
What's Next
Bookings for both new routes are expected to open shortly, with EasyJet's website and mobile app the primary booking channels. The carrier is likely to promote the routes heavily in the coming months as it seeks to build load factors ahead of the October launch. Belfast International Airport is also expected to announce further route developments in the coming months as it continues to expand its network and capitalise on the strong passenger growth it has experienced in recent years. The airport's ongoing infrastructure investment programme will provide the capacity needed to support continued growth.
