05/01/2009

Airport Soaring Despite Crunch

Despite the challenging economic conditions, Ireland West Airport Knock has reported record passenger numbers for 2008.

The airport says around 630,000 people used its services during the year, an increase of more than 73,000 on the figure for 2007.

In a statement published today, the good news continues with the announcement of new operators and business recouped on European charter flights for 2009 and a new €5.5 million terminal extension and €3.6 Million instrument landing system and runway safety projects to be completed in Spring 2009

A spokesman at the airport said: "Notwithstanding massive challenges within the aviation industry in the last twelve months, Ireland West Airport Knock’s latest traffic figures prove that 2008 was its busiest year yet."

The statement claimed that its growth in 2008 stems from the airport's scheduled route development throughout the year, with the addition of two new scheduled services to the UK including Glasgow International with bmibaby and a daily service to Liverpool with Ryanair.

Robert Grealis, CEO, Ireland West Airport Knock said: “Although 2008 was our busiest year ever, without doubt, 2009 will be a challenge for everyone across the country and particularly for those working in the aviation industry.

"We are committed to continuing to strive for growth whilst remaining focussed on overcoming the difficult economic conditions we face in 2009. More than ever we need the support of key stakeholders at regional and national level to aid us in this drive as we continue to develop new route opportunities and expand the Airport."

(DW/KMcA)


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