Ryanair Adds Dublin–Santander Flights Ahead of Bilbao Rugby Final
Ryanair has scheduled extra flights between Dublin and Santander ahead of the 2026 Champions Cup Final, which will take place at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao on Saturday, 23 May. The airline confirmed an additional 1,600 seats to meet expected demand from supporters travelling to northern Spain for the match.
The extra services will operate on Friday, 22 May and Sunday, 24 May 2026, matching the usual travel dates before and after major sporting fixtures. Santander Airport, located along Spain’s northern coast, offers a practical gateway for those heading towards Bilbao for the final.
Tickets for the added flights are available through the Ryanair app. The airline announced the increase as anticipation builds around the final, with Leinster still competing for a place in the decisive fixture. The additional capacity is intended to support fans planning to attend the event in person.
Extra Dublin–Santander services for 22–24 May 2026:
- Additional 1,600 seats released
- Flights operating on 22 May and 24 May
- Match scheduled for 23 May at San Mamés Stadium
Santander provides access not only to Bilbao but also to the wider Cantabria region. Travellers can combine matchday plans with time along the Bay of Biscay, visits to Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, or walks through the old quarter near the Nervión River. The added flights create room for short stays built around the final weekend.
The airline has added these flights in response to the surge in demand that usually surrounds major European finals. With a set match date and limited seats at the stadium, flights tend to fill quickly. The additional capacity gives supporters more direct options for travel and lowers the risk of relying on connecting services during one of the busiest weekends in the rugby season.
