CORK Airport is expecting a huge amount of passengers this weekend as two new services start.
Over the June Bank Holiday, over 57,000 passengers will travel through the airport.
As secondary schools start their summer holidays, people are set to take the chance to travel on holiday.
Thousands from the UK, Continental Europe and further afield are expected to land in Cork over the coming days for an Irish holiday.
Passengers are being urged to arrive at least 90 minutes before the flight is set to depart to ensure a smooth journey.
Pre-booking a car parking space is also recommended.
The airport is expected to grow by over seven per cent this year, exceeding 3 million passengers over 50 routes.
Ryanair’s new summer services will commence next week, providing flights to Rhodes and Zadar.
The service to Rhodes will begin this Saturday, June 1 and will operate every Wednesday and Saturday.
The new flights to Zadar in Croatia start on Monday, June 3, and will run on Mondays and Fridays.
Both of these services are set to run until the end of October.
Their seasonal services to French cities La Rochelle and Carcassone will also recommence.
Managing Director at Cork Airport, Niall MacCarthy, said: “Summer has really kicked off at Cork Airport.
“We’re seeing strong loads, both inbound and outbound, across all our routes.
“When you experience the convenience of Cork Airport, we are confident you will not want to fly from any other Irish airport.
“If you’re living anywhere in Munster or South Leinster, we’re only a short hop away.”
It comes as recent passenger satisfaction surveys conducted by RedC, indicate customer satisfaction of over 95 per cent for passengers using Cork Airport.
Survey respondents complimented fast security, short walking distances and friendly staff.
PASSPORT WARNING
Elsewhere, an urgent warning has been issued to Irish people heading abroad this summer to ensure your passport is in date.
Passengers are being urged to check that their passport meets the requirements of the country they’re travelling to.
The passport office suggested holidaymakers check with the embassy ahead of any holiday.
Officials said: “A general rule of thumb is to keep six months validity remaining on your passport from the date you’re returning home.
“You can travel right up to the date of expiry within the EU.
“However it is advisable to contact the embassy of the country to which you intend to travel with queries regarding their specific requirements.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that you “do not need to wait” until your current passport has expired to apply for a new one.
They added: “It is advisable to apply at least six weeks ahead of any planned travel to avoid disappointment.”
Irish passports need to be valid until the day you return from your holiday when travelling within the EU.
Other countries outside of the EU can have different regulations and requirements.