Belfast's 2028 Summer: 21 Destinations and a New Bulgaria Direct

The booking window for summer 2028 opened on Thursday, 8 October 2026, marking the earliest launch Jet2 has ever offered from Belfast International Airport. This early start is a deliberate strategic choice designed to give holidaymakers the maximum possible time to plan their trips. By opening the books in October, the airline is responding directly to a growing customer demand for longer lead times and greater certainty in their travel arrangements.

Jet2 has put more than 618,000 seats on sale for the upcoming season, a volume that clearly signals a significant expansion of its operations in Northern Ireland. This is not merely a routine seasonal update but a substantial commitment to the region, reflecting the airline's confidence in the local market. The sheer scale of this release indicates that Belfast is being treated as a priority hub for European summer travel.

The headline addition to this expanded network is a brand new exclusive direct route to Bourgas in Bulgaria. This service will fly every Wednesday from 5 July to 4 October 2028, unlocking the Black Sea coast for Northern Ireland holidaymakers without the need for a connecting flight. It sits alongside a roster of 20 other destinations, giving families and couples a wide array of options across Europe and the islands.

A New Gateway to the Black Sea

Bourgas has long been a favourite for beach holidays, but it has rarely been accessible directly from the north of Ireland. The new Wednesday service changes that dynamic significantly, offering a straightforward link to a region known for its sandy beaches and vibrant waterfronts. The airline is positioning this as a key new option for those seeking a classic summer sun break with a bit more cultural depth than the typical resort stay.

The destination offers a rich mix of leisure and history that appeals to a broad range of travellers. Visitors can explore the Sea Garden, stroll along the harbour, or dive into the traditional Bulgarian food scene. The proximity to Nessebar is a major draw, as this historic town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its old town, with its cobblestone streets and preserved architecture, provides a stark and welcome contrast to the modern beach resorts nearby.

The schedule runs for nearly three months, from early July through to early October, allowing for both peak summer holidays and a slightly quieter shoulder season. For Northern Ireland travellers, this direct link removes a significant friction point from the booking process, making the Black Sea a far more viable option for a family trip. The convenience of a direct flight means less time spent in transit and more time enjoying the destination.

The Full 2028 Lineup

Beyond the new Bulgaria route, the 2028 programme covers a familiar but extensive list of favourites that cater to diverse tastes. Spain is well represented with flights to Alicante, Málaga, and Reus, offering a range of coastal and inland experiences. Portugal is covered via Faro, while Greece offers three distinct choices: Crete, Rhodes, and Zante. Türkiye is also a major part of the network, with direct flights to both Antalya and Dalaman.

The island destinations form a strong part of the mix, providing options for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. The Canary Islands are covered by flights to Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Tenerife, each with its own unique character. The Balearic Islands are represented by Ibiza, Menorca, and Palma de Mallorca. This breadth means that whether you want a lively party island or a quieter coastal escape, there is a direct option from Belfast.

Mediterranean and Beyond

The list also includes several key mainland and island destinations in the Mediterranean that are popular for their cultural richness. Malta is a direct option, as is Paphos in Cyprus, both offering a blend of history and modern amenities. For those preferring a bit of culture alongside their beach time, Verona in Italy offers a classic Italian experience with its rich history and scenic beauty. Croatia is represented by Dubrovnik, a city that continues to be a major draw for its historic walls and Adriatic views.

The combination of these destinations creates a comprehensive package for the 2028 summer season, covering the major sun-seeking markets while also providing options for those looking for a mix of city breaks and coastal relaxation. The airline has confirmed that further options are still to be announced, suggesting this list is not the final word for the 2028 season. This ongoing expansion indicates a commitment to providing a diverse and evolving portfolio of holiday choices for its customers.

Planning Ahead for 2028

Jet2 says the early launch is a direct response to customer demand for longer lead times, recognizing that many families and couples prefer to book their holidays well in advance. This approach allows them to secure better prices and wider choice, reducing the stress associated with last minute planning. By opening the books in October 2026, the airline is giving its customers the maximum possible time to plan their 2028 trips and make informed decisions.

The volume of seats available, over 618,000, is a testament to the scale of the operation and the airline's confidence in its Belfast base. With up to 56 departing flights per week during peak periods, Belfast International is becoming a significant hub for European summer travel. This expansion reflects the growing importance of Northern Ireland as a departure point for international holidays and highlights the region's increasing role in the broader European tourism landscape.