AIRLINES serving Ireland West Airport Knock have given their reassurances to airport management that their flights will be running throughout the winter and into next year.
Speaking to the Western People, airport chief executive, Robert Grealis, said: “We have been in talks with all the airlines that serve the airport and they have told us they will be operating their flights well into next year.
“This is an unsure time for the airport industry, but it’s unsure for businesses across the board.”
This reassurance comes against the backdrop of Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary’s predictions that 30 more airlines will go bust before the end of the year.
“The airlines servicing the airport include some of the biggest and prominent,” said Mr Grealis.
As well as Ryanair, BMI baby are servicing regular flights to and from the airport and Aer Arann began the reinstated Knock to Dublin route last Wednesday, October 1.
However, Ryanair is pushing ahead with its court action against the awarding of the route to Aer Arann.
Mr Grealis told the Western People:
“The awarding of the contract was decided by the Department of Transport. Ryanair didn’t tender for the route originally. I don’t want to speak on behalf of Ryanair, but it is hugely important for us to have this route back up and running.”
Mr Grealis, originally from Ballycroy and now living in Westport, is more than aware of the huge challenges facing airports in the current economic climate. “Fuel prices are playing a huge role in how airlines are staying afloat. We are in regular contact with airlines and keep up to date on current changes in the airport business. It is a challenging time.”
Despite the flights to Dublin back on and new flights to Liverpool taking off on October 27, the airport boss is adamant that this region is still underserviced.
“We believe that the West and North West is hugely underserved. This will stand the airport in good stead as the figures show that there is demand for routes to London Gatwick and the US.”
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