CityJet expansion provides major boost for west of Ireland industry
By Linley Mackenzie
There was good news for travellers in the west this week with the annoucement that CityJet is expanding its services from Shannon Airport.
Described by airport director Martin Moroney as a significant boost, he said the move considerably enhances one-stop connectivity to all key international markets.
“Doubling the capacity and bringing forward the morning departure to 6.30am on the Charles de Gaulle Paris route is a huge boost, not just to Shannon Airport, but the entire west of Ireland.
“CityJet came into Shannon last year when it mattered most and preserved critical connectivity to international markets for this region. Industry across the region was extremely grateful for this and fully supported it. Greater capacity and earlier departure time for Shannon were priorities for business which are now delivered by this announcement and we would call on them to fully support this further investment by CityJet.”
Shannon Airport chairman Pat Shanahan said Shannon Airport would have greater connectivity than ever.
“Having an aircraft based here is a real vote of confidence in the airport and we appreciate this commitment from CityJet Air France. The key development is the earlier departure time which will enable business travellers to connect with their onward international flights in as little as 45 minutes from one of the major international aviation hubs.”
The annoucement follows Aer Lingus’ decision to resume the Shannon-Heathrow services in April.
“This is an essential infrastructure for our region, particularly in the extremely challenging current environment. Without this access through Shannon, the plight of business and industry in the west of Ireland would be much more challenging than it already is.”