Downpatrick Head features in new Tourism Ireland campaign with Etihad Airways

TOURISM Ireland has teamed up with Etihad Airways in Australia, to promote Etihad flights to Dublin via Abu Dhabi and to highlight holidays in Ireland for 2018.

The busy programme of activity includes outdoor ads in the key cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth – featuring an eye-catching image of Downpatrick Head.

It also includes online ads, which will reach more than 1 million Australians; as well as extensive social media activity on Facebook and Instagram, which will reach over 800,000 people.

The aim of Tourism Ireland’s latest campaign is to keep Ireland ‘front of mind’ for Australian travellers considering a trip to Europe in 2018, to capitalise on the important ‘early bird’ booking season – when all the major airlines promote their special fares.

Working closely with airlines and airports to build demand for flights is a key priority for Tourism Ireland and this campaign with Etihad will highlight ease of access from Australian cities to Ireland.

Sofia Hansson, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Australia, said: “We are delighted to partner with Etihad this autumn, to maximise the promotion of flights from Australia via Abu Dhabi and help grow tourist numbers to Ireland. As an island destination, the importance of convenient, direct, non-stop flights cannot be overstated – they are absolutely critical to achieving growth in inbound tourism.

“Last year, we welcomed more than 200,000 visitors from Australia and New Zealand. Tourism Ireland is determined to ensure that success continues and we have an extensive programme of promotions under way in Australia this autumn – aimed at boosting late-season travel to Ireland and at positioning us well for 2018.”