by Bernie English bernie@limerickpost
The St. Patrick’s Day exodus to destinations around the world went into overdrive at Shannon this week as thousands of passengers jetted out to destinations across the globe to catch up with the festivities.
The demand for services was such that Aer Lingus brought forward the recommencement of its JFK New York service from Shannon Airport by one week after a two-month winter break.
According to a Shannon Airport spokesman, it resulted in an extra busy morning at the transatlantic gates with passengers travelling from as far Dublin, Waterford and Sligo to catch the inaugural flight of the recommenced service.
The service also facilitated the travel plans of public representatives heading out on formal business, among them Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council Shane P. O’Reilly, who was New York bound.
“Some might think Shannon is a long way to go if you’re from Cavan, not least as Dublin is just an hour from where we live, but we are on the motorway very quickly. It’s my first time here and it’s so stress-free it’s unbelievable”, he said.
The service was due to recommence next week after its winter break since January 5 but was brought forward to cater for demand for seats each way for St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Flights will operate daily, except Tuesdays, throughout the summer months.
Transatlantic services have made a major contribution to the resurgence at Shannon Airport since it was made independent two years ago. Last year saw a ten per cent increase in transatlantic passengers.
