New direct Lapland charter flight to take off from City of Derry Airport

Families across the North West will have the opportunity to experience the magic of Lapland this Christmas with the launch of a new direct charter flight from City of Derry Airport with The Lapland Experience in partnership with award-winning UK tour operator, Murray Travel.

The special festive charter, operated in partnership with The Lapland Experience, will depart from City of Derry Airport on December 18 2026, offering families across Derry City and Strabane, Causeway Coast and Glens, Donegal, and beyond, with a unique day trip to the winter wonderland of Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus.

This one-day festive experience will allow families to travel directly from their local airport to Lapland without the need for connecting flights or overnight stays. Families travelling will enjoy a full itinerary of festive activities including reindeer sleigh rides, husky experiences, snow-mobile adventures, a visit to Santa Claus village there they can help the elves in the workshop, and of course, a private meeting with Santa Claus himself, ensuring a truly magical experience and memories that will be cherished for life.

City of Derry Airport highlighted that the new charter highlights the airport’s continued commitment to providing convenient and exciting travel opportunities for people across the North West.

Steve Frazer, Managing Director at City of Derry Airport, said: “Christmas is a magical time of year, and we are delighted to partner with Murray Travel to bring this incredible Lapland experience to families across the North West region. Offering a direct charter from City of Derry Airport means passengers can start their festive adventure right on their doorstep, with reduced travel time to the airport, a journey time of less than 10 minutes from the carpark through to the departure gate, and excellent parking rates.

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“Any families travelling with children or adults who require support are most welcome to arrange a pre-visit to the airport prior to the flight departure date, where a member of our team can show them around to familiarise with the airport environment in advance. Our Amelia Earhart Lounge is also available to pre-book for any families who would like to avail of a quieter space in advance of boarding.”

Scott Murray, CEO of Murray Travel said: “We are absolutely delighted to be bringing our Lapland day trip to City of Derry Airport. The response to our previous trips from other airports was incredible, and it was genuinely special to see so many families making such magical memories.

“Lapland is a bucket-list experience for so many people and being able to offer that to Northern Ireland customers makes it even more special. It means families can enjoy all the wonder and excitement of a trip to Santa’s homeland, with the added ease and convenience of travelling from their local airport in one festive filled day.”

For further information visit www.thelaplandexperience.co.uk or call 0333 207 6655.