Progress on Galway Airport runway extension

Date Published: 13-May-2008

MAJOR progress is being made to extend Galway Airport so that 100 seater jets can fly into the Carnmore facility.

Minister Eamon Ó Cuiv told The Sentinel yesterday that the airport was not sustainable into the future unless it could bring in bigger planes and increase the number of destinations.

“The airport will always be vulnerable if it is depending on the smaller aircraft for survival,” he remarked. Minister Ó Cuiv said that it was his understanding that progress was being made towards extending the runway to accommodate bigger aircraft.

The airport management in Galway would aspire towards attracting airlines like Aer Lingus and Ryanair in the future if extension plans come to fruition.

In order to extend, the airport would have to acquire additional land and it is understood that some discussions have taken place with local farmers.

“It is my understanding that progress has been made with a view to extending the runway to accommodate 100 seater planes and possibly larger aircraft”, Minister Ó Cuiv added.

Meanwhile, Flybe announced it is to suspend its services to Belfast, Southampton and Birmingham for the summer months. It is understood that discussions are under way with a view to restoring these rooutes for the Autumn/Winter schedule…………..