Kerry Airport Transfers 2026: New Terminal & The Best Way to Get to Killarney
So you’ve booked your flight to Kerry. Smart move.
Whether you’re arriving for the Wild Atlantic Way, a wedding in Killarney, or a quiet break in the southwest, Kerry Airport is likely your first stop. And if you haven’t flown into Kerry recently, you’ll notice one big change straight away. The airport has a newly upgraded terminal, and it’s made arriving in Kerry faster, calmer, and far more comfortable.
More flights, smoother arrivals, and growing passenger numbers also mean one thing. Planning your Kerry Airport transfer in advance matters more than ever.
This guide covers what’s new at Kerry Airport in 2026 and the easiest, most reliable way to get from Kerry Airport to Killarney.
What’s New at Kerry Airport in 2026
Kerry Airport completed a major terminal upgrade during 2025, transforming both the arrivals and departures experience.
The new arrivals hall is larger and more efficient, with improved baggage reclaim space and clearer passenger flow. Immigration and exit times are noticeably quicker, especially during busy travel periods. Later in the year, the expanded departures area opened, offering more seating and better food and drink options.
These upgrades are designed to handle increased passenger numbers. Kerry Airport is expecting well over 400,000 passengers in 2026, driven by new and expanded flight routes. For visitors, this means smoother arrivals. For transport, it means higher demand at peak times.
That’s why booking a Kerry Airport transfer before you land is becoming the smart option.
Kerry Airport to Killarney: Distance and Travel Time
Kerry Airport, also known locally as Farranfore Airport, is located around 17 kilometres from Killarney town centre. The journey usually takes 15 to 25 minutes by car, depending on traffic and time of day.
The route is straightforward, and local drivers know it well. If Killarney is your base, a direct Kerry Airport to Killarney taxi is the fastest and least stressful way to start your trip.
Transport Options from Kerry Airport
Bus Services
There are bus connections from the airport, but services are limited and timed around specific flights. If your flight is delayed or arrives late, waiting times can be long. With luggage, buses are rarely the most comfortable option.
Car Hire
Car rental is available at Kerry Airport, with desks located just outside the terminal area. This can work well if you plan to drive extensively around Kerry. However, parking, navigation, and unfamiliar rural roads can add stress after a flight.
Taxi and Private Transfers
For most visitors, taxis are the preferred option. The taxi rank is directly outside the arrivals hall, clearly signposted and easy to access.
A standard taxi fare from Kerry Airport to Killarney typically is €40. A pre-booked Kerry Airport transfer offers additional benefits, especially during busy travel periods.
Why Pre-Booking a Kerry Airport Transfer Makes Sense
Pre-booking your airport transfer removes uncertainty and delays. A professional airport transfer service offers:
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Flight tracking, so your driver adjusts for delays
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Fixed pricing, with no surprises on arrival
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Local drivers who know hotels, guesthouses, and rural addresses
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Door-to-door service, including help with luggage
If you’re arriving late in the evening, travelling with family, or staying outside central Killarney, a pre-arranged transfer is significantly more reliable than waiting at the rank.
Other Popular Airport Transfers We Cover
Many visitors travel into Kerry via other airports. Reliable transfer services are also available for:
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Cork Airport to Killarney transfers
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Dublin Airport to Killarney
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Shannon Airport transfers
These routes are popular with international travellers and offer flexible alternatives depending on flight availability.
Taxi vs Bus vs Car Hire: What’s Best?
A local taxi or private airport transfer combines convenience and efficiency.
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Buses are cheaper but inflexible.
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Car hire gives freedom but adds responsibility.
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A Kerry Airport taxi service offers the best balance, especially for shorter stays or first-time visitors.
With a taxi, you avoid timetable restrictions, parking issues, and unfamiliar roads. You arrive directly at your accommodation, relaxed and ready to enjoy Kerry.
First-Time Tips for Kerry Airport
If this is your first time flying into Kerry, a few practical tips help:
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Arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure
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Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal
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Food and drink options in departures have improved significantly
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Taxis are located immediately outside arrivals
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Farranfore train station is nearby, but most visitors prefer taxis
Kerry Airport is small by design. Everything is close, clearly signed, and easy to navigate.
Why Killarney Is the Ideal Base in Kerry
Killarney sits at the edge of Killarney National Park and offers excellent access to the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and surrounding lakes and mountains.
The town has a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and traditional pubs, all within walking distance of the centre. With strong transport links and local services, Killarney makes an ideal base for exploring County Kerry.
Planning Your Kerry Airport Transfer
Booking your airport transfer in advance is a small decision that makes a big difference. Instead of queuing or checking schedules, you arrive knowing your transport is already arranged.
A dependable Kerry Airport transfer to Killarney sets the tone for your entire visit. It’s efficient, comfortable, and removes unnecessary stress after travelling.
Looking for a reliable Kerry Airport transfer?
At Sage Taxis, we specialise in airport transfers to and from Killarney. We track your flight, know every local road, and provide a smooth, professional service from the moment you land.
Get in touch through our website or give us a call to book your transfer.