First Newcastle-Cork flight kicks off Aer Lingus expansion in the region

The first Newcastle-Cork flight, operated by Aer Lingus, has kicked off what is hoped to be a 25,000 passenger per year route.

Aer Lingus will operate four return flights per week to Cork and aim to fly up to 15,000 passengers on the route in 2014, rising to 25,000 in the following year.

The move is part of the airline’s “new beginning” strategy which follows the success of Newcastle-Dublin, which operates three times daily.

Aer Lingus, which operates under the majority shareholding of Stobart Air, will run the new ATR 72-600 aircraft on the route

Stobart Air’s chief commercial officer, Simon Fagan said that the addition of this new Newcastle-Cork route is a vital step in the growth plan for the airline which aims to double passenger numbers to 2 million by 2016.

He said: “We are delighted to launch the new Newcastle-Cork route. This new route connects passengers in Newcastle with Ireland’s second largest city and adds another of the main UK cities to the airline’s network for Irish passengers. Equally, the new route will enable North East-based passengers to access some of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations in the south of the country.

“Aer Lingus Regional is committed to providing our customers with easy, convenient and great value in regional connections. We have already enjoyed great success with our Newcastle-Dublin route which launched last October and now we look forward to welcoming more passengers on board this new Newcastle-Cork route.

“There is enormous potential in this route, particularly given the links in the wind and tidal energy sector between Ireland and North East of England.”

Chris Sanders, aviation development director at Newcastle International Airport, said: “We’re delighted that Aer Lingus Regional will be operating new services to Cork this year. This announcement increases the schedule choice for passengers flying from Newcastle on this important route.

“Cork is a fantastic city break destination with a vibrant culture and fantastic tourist attractions. Its proximity to some of Ireland’s most popular tourist sights makes it an ideal destination for tourists.

“Business users will also be pleased with the convenient flight times on offer which allow day returns, four days a week, an incredible benefit for regular visitors to one of Europe’s leading technology hubs.”

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