Irish carrier Aer Lingus has unveiled two new connections this week with the announcement of a pair of transatlantic routes to Montréal and Minneapolis-St. Paul, set to fly in summer next year.

The new services will add 250,000 additional seats annually to Aer Lingus’ transatlantic network, with the airline already operating at 2.8m seats annually between Ireland and North America – taking the total number of North American routes up to 17.

The flight will be serviced by Aer Lingus’s Airbus A321 neo long-range aircraft, slated to arrive by the end of this year.

Speaking at the launch,Stephen Kavanagh, Aer Lingus CEO said: “Today we are pleased to announce two new transatlantic routes from our Dublin Hub with daily direct service to Montréal and Minneapolis-St Paul commencing in summer 2019. These destinations each have a rich heritage, vibrant culture and much to offer visitors travelling for business or leisure.

“Aer Lingus continues to deliver on its ambition to be the leading value carrier across the North Atlantic, adding new routes and travel options between Ireland, Europe, the USA and Canada, bringing increased connectivity, growing Irish employment and supporting international trade and economic growth.”

Brian Ryks, executive director and CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, said: “Minneapolis-St. Paul and Dublin are both important centres for commerce and culture, with vibrant arts and entertainment offerings.

I am very pleased that Aer Lingus will provide a direct connection between the cities, creating opportunities to strengthen economic and cultural ties on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Philippe Rainville, president and CEO of Aéroports de Montréal, said: “We are tremendously proud to welcome Aer Lingus, the 37th airline to join the great Montréal-Trudeau family. The arrival of the Irish carrier on the Montréal-Dublin route starting in August 2019 will enhance the annual air service to a very popular destination for both our communities, at a competitive price. I’m sure travellers will appreciate this year-long direct connection and am confident this new collaboration will be a successful one.”