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Cork Airport ORK Airport Traveler Guide

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ORK Airport Insights & Guide

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Getting to Know ORK Airport

Discover Cork Airport, Ireland's southern gem, known for its award-winning green initiatives. ORK simplifies your journey with its modern amenities and strategic location. Our concise guide ensures a smooth experience, covering everything from flight tracking to dining and shopping. Dive into our resources for a hassle-free visit.

Explore more about global airports, including detailed maps and tips, by visiting our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.

iFly Tip: Find the most convenient parking options for your trip on our Airport Parking page.

ORK Airport has one terminal building with two levels. The ground level is for arrivals and the first level is for departures. The terminal has 16 gates, numbered from 1 to 16. The gates are located on both sides of the terminal building, with gates 1 to 7 on the left and gates 8 to 16 on the right.

The terminal building is divided into two main areas: the landside area and the airside area. The landside area is where you will find the check-in counters, baggage claim, and security checkpoints. The airside area is where you will find the departure gates, duty-free shops, restaurants, and other services.

Major airlines such as Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and KLM operate from the airport. Aer Lingus and Ryanair use gates 1 to 7, while KLM uses gates 8 to 16.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Cork Airport has a single terminal building, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. All gates and facilities are located within the same building, making it easy to navigate and find your way around. The airport is small and compact, with short walking distances between check-in, security, and departure gates. There are also plenty of seating areas, shops, and restaurants to keep you entertained during your wait for your flight.

Tips from ORK Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Cork Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from ORK-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Cork Airport is pretty straightforward with just one terminal. If you're in a rush, remember that gates 1 to 7 are on the left and gates 8 to 16 are on the right. It's easy to navigate, but it can get busy, so plan a little extra time if you're flying during peak hours." — Liam O., Douglas, December 2023

"For those using Aer Lingus or Ryanair, stick to the left after security for quicker access to gates 1-7. It's a small airport, so you won't have to walk far, but every minute counts when you're running late!" — Aoife M., Ballincollig, April 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The 226 bus is a lifesaver for getting into Cork city center. It's affordable and runs frequently, but keep an eye on the schedule, especially on weekends when it might not be as regular." — Conor S., Carrigaline, March 2024

"If you're taking a taxi, it's best to book ahead during off-peak hours to avoid waiting. The ride to the city center is quick, usually around 20 minutes, but traffic can be unpredictable." — Siobhan K., Glanmire, June 2024

Parking

"For those picking up passengers, the cell phone waiting area is super convenient and free for 30 minutes. Just park there until your passenger is ready to be picked up at the curbside." — Patrick L., Midleton, February 2024

"If you're planning to park for a few days, consider the off-airport parking options. They offer shuttle services and can save you some money compared to the on-site lots." — Fiona C., Cobh, August 2024

Inside the Airport

"The Food Market Kitchen in Departures is my go-to for a quick meal before a flight. They have a good variety, and you can grab something to take on board if you’re in a hurry." — Niamh P., Mallow, January 2024

"If you have time, check out the Discover Ireland store in Departures. It's a great spot for last-minute gifts or to pick up something uniquely Irish before you leave." — Declan W., Blarney, July 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the flight status displays once you're through security. They’re updated in real-time and can save you from any last-minute gate changes." — Eoin F., Youghal, May 2024

"If you’re traveling with kids, make use of the play area. It’s a great way to keep them entertained and burn off some energy before the flight." — Maeve J., Kinsale, October 2024

iFly Tip: Learn the procedures for getting a gate pass at the airport by checking our gate pass page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At the airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside the terminal buildings. However, please note that there are strict time limits for curbside parking, so it is important to plan accordingly and not leave your vehicle unattended. The curbside areas are also monitored by airport security and any unattended vehicles will be towed away.

If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, Cork Airport provides a convenient cell-phone waiting area where you can park your vehicle for free for up to 30 minutes. This area is located near the airport entrance and allows you to wait for your passenger to arrive before proceeding to the curbside pick-up area. Please note that vehicles are not permitted to wait or park in any other areas of the airport, including the access roads and car parks.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're driving to Cork Airport, you'll find a range of parking options to suit your needs.

The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with multiple parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminal. There are also designated cell phone waiting areas for those picking up passengers.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located close to the terminal entrance.

For those looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available with shuttle service to and from the terminal. This can be a great way to save money on parking fees.

Transportation Options

ORK Airport provides a variety of transportation options for travelers arriving in Ireland:

  • Car Rentals: Several major car rental providers are located at Cork Airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. The car rental desks can be found in the arrivals hall of the terminal building. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at Cork Airport, with a designated taxi rank located just outside the terminal building. The fare to Cork city center typically ranges from €20 to €25, and the journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. For convenience, it is recommended to book a taxi ahead of time during off-peak hours.
  • Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available for pickup at the designated rideshare area outside the terminal building. These services offer a more affordable transportation option, but please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage allowed.
  • Airport Shuttles: Several shuttle companies offer door-to-door service to hotels and other destinations in the Cork area. The shuttle pickup area is located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on your destination. It is recommended to book your shuttle in advance to ensure availability.
  • Public Transportation: Cork Airport is served by several bus routes, including the 226 and 252 buses. The bus stop is located just outside the terminal building, and fares start at €2.20 for a single journey. These buses provide convenient and affordable access to Cork city center and other nearby destinations.

iFly Tip: Keep your travel essentials close with advice from our carry-on baggage guide.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're in transit, on a business trip, or exploring the charming city, finding a comfortable and conveniently located hotel can enhance your travel experience. From upscale hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, we offer a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Many of these hotels are just a short drive from the airport and offer amenities like complimentary shuttle services, Wifi, secure parking, and more. Some hotels are located within the city, providing easy access to local attractions, while others are nestled in tranquil settings, offering a peaceful retreat after a long flight. Ready to book now? View all Airport Hotels, including rates, on a map.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Cork Airport offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy before their flight. For those looking for a quick bite to eat, there are several fast food options available such as McDonald's and Subway. For a more sit-down experience, travelers can visit The Food Market Kitchen or The Red Bar and Restaurant, both of which offer a variety of delicious meals and drinks. The Food Market Kitchen is located in the Departures area, while The Red Bar and Restaurant can be found in the Arrivals area.

In terms of shopping, ORK has a great selection of stores for travelers to browse. For those looking for last-minute gifts or souvenirs, there is a WHSmith and a Duty-Free store available. For fashion lovers, there is a Sunglass Hut and a Montblanc store. Additionally, there is a Discover Ireland store for those looking to learn more about the country's culture and attractions. All of these stores can be found in the Departures area of the airport.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at ORK Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Cork Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located at the information desk in the arrivals hall for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Cork Airport features a designated children's play area, providing a safe and fun environment for kids to play before their flight.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the arrivals area. Trained staff are available to provide assistance in the event of an injury or illness.
  • Airport Lounges: Cork Airport features the Jack Lynch Lounge, accessible to all passengers for a fee or through membership programs. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and a comfortable seating area to relax before your flight.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. At Cork Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status.

One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information. Simply find the FIDS display and search for your flight number.

Another way to stay informed is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that allow you to receive push notifications about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. You can also check your flight status on the app and receive updates via text or email.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at ORK by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Cork Airport (ORK) is located in the southern part of Ireland.
  • Terminals: The airport has one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Ownership: The airport is owned and operated by the Dublin Airport Authority (daa).
  • Passenger Traffic: Cork Airport handles approximately 10,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 60 daily flights.
  • Destinations: ORK serves over 50 destinations worldwide, including London, Amsterdam, and Paris.
  • Top Airlines: The major airlines with the most daily flights from Cork Airport are Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and KLM. For a complete list of airlines, visit the ORK Airlines Served page.
  • Top Destinations: The top 5 destinations served by Cork Airport are London, Amsterdam, Paris, Malaga, and Alicante.
  • Hub Status: Cork Airport serves as a hub for Aer Lingus Regional, Ryanair, and Stobart Air.

Airport History

The airport, located in the south of Ireland, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1928: The airport was established as a grass runway for local flying clubs.
  • 1936: The Irish Air Corps took control of the airport and began developing it for commercial use.
  • 1961: The first commercial flight, operated by Aer Lingus, took off from Cork Airport.
  • 1980s: The airport underwent major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building.
  • 2006: A new control tower was opened, equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
  • 2010: The airport was hit hard by the global financial crisis, with passenger numbers dropping significantly.
  • 2017: Cork Airport celebrated its 56th year of commercial flights, with over 2 million passengers passing through its doors annually.
  • 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp decline in air travel, with ORK experiencing a 95% drop in passenger numbers at the height of the crisis.

Despite the challenges faced over the years, ORK Airport remains an important hub for both domestic and international travel in Ireland.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Cork Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Cork Airport Q&A

It is recommended to arrive at least two hours early, especially for morning flights, due to busy security lines.
Use the left side of the terminal after security for a quicker transition to gates 1-7, especially if flying with Aer Lingus or Ryanair.
The 226 bus offers frequent and affordable service to Cork city center, but check the schedule as it varies on weekends.
The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking, with discounts for online pre-booking. A cell phone waiting area is available for free for up to 30 minutes.
For a hearty meal, visit the Food Market Kitchen in Departures. For a variety of meals and drinks, The Red Bar and Restaurant is in Arrivals.
Yes, the Jack Lynch Lounge offers a quiet place to relax with free Wi-Fi and snacks, accessible for a fee or through membership programs.
Check flight status using the in-airport flight displays, your airline's mobile app, or the iFly website for real-time updates.
Car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public buses are available, with taxi fares to the city center ranging from €20 to €25.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. Notify your airline in advance if you require assistance.
Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and KLM are the major airlines, with Aer Lingus and Ryanair using gates 1-7 and KLM using gates 8-16.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport