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| Aer Arann and Aer Lingus ink new interline deal |
25th June - Fly Aer Arann from Cork and connect at Dublin with Aer Lingus to the USA through a single booking via aerlingus.com
Aer Arann and Aer Lingus have signed an Interline Agreement that allows customers to directly connect to Aer Lingus transatlantic services from Cork Airport. From today, bookings can be made on aerlingus.com directly both to and from Cork to all seven Aer Lingus USA destinations in one single booking transaction. Customers will be able to check-in at Cork Airport, through check luggage directly to their final destination in the USA, and transfer to their flight at Dublin Airport. The new arrangement is also available for customers travelling from the USA connecting to Cork Airport.
Left to right: In-flight crew Lisa Rea of Aer Arann and Karolina Sawczak of Aer Lingus,
Aer Arann’s Managing Director, Garry Cullen
and Dermot Mannion, Chief Executive, Aer Lingus.
Aer Arann’s Managing Director, Garry Cullen said, “The ability to through check luggage all the way to your final destination from Cork, and transfer seamlessly to Aer Lingus’ USA services in Dublin will be of great benefit to Aer Arann and Aer Lingus customers. The partnership with Aer Lingus will benefit Munster by making the region more accessible to the USA inbound tourist and USA corporate travel markets.”
Dermot Mannion, Chief Executive, Aer Lingus, said, "This agreement creates a natural synergy between Aer Lingus and Aer Arann, offering customers in the Cork market greater accessibility to the USA. The streamlined booking process allows customers to book flights on aerlingus.com both to and from Cork direct to seven destinations in the USA in one single booking transaction. Customers can now enjoy ease of transfer at Dublin Airport with the benefit of through check luggage and pre-clearance facilities, giving an overall seamless and enjoyable travel experience."
Aer Lingus offers flights from Dublin to Boston, Chicago, New York (JFK), Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orlando, Washington (Dulles) in the US.
Aer Arann offers five flights a day between Dublin and Cork.
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| Aer Arann and Coiste Peile na Gaillimhe going to the Galway races summer festival |
12th June - We are delighted to be occupying the Ballybrit tent for corporate hospitality at the world famous Galway races summer festival this July.
All funds raised from the event will benefit the promotion, development and coaching of all Galway Football county teams from underage to senior level and Coiste Peile na Gaillimhe state of the art training complex in Lough George.
We would be delighted if you could join us at this historic and world famous event. Corporate rates for tables of 10 include;
- Entry into Race Track
- VIP Parking
- Champagne Reception
- 5 Course Gourmet Meal with selected wines
- After Dinner Drink
- Race Card
- Tipster on Hand
- Tote Facilities
- Bookmakers on site
- Afternoon Tea
Corporate packages for tables of 10 run on Wednesday 30th July, Thursday 31st July, and Friday 1st August 2008. There are special discounted rates when joining us at the Aer Arann Galway Football Suite for more than one day.
To book a table at this event contact Toni Wall or Emily Kennedy at (01) 6690939 or by email at: aeraranngalwayfootballraces@gmail.com
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| Aer Arann carries record number of passengers in the first five months of 2008 |
04th June - Highlights from the first five months are:
- Carried 430,100 passengers, a 3.1% increase over the first five months of 2007
- Best ever May: 105,677 passengers carried in one month, 10% ahead of last year
- Launched 6 new routes, including first ever jet services to Amsterdam
- Continental Europe expansion: Aer Arann now serves six countries: Ireland, UK, France, Holland, Spain, and Portugal
- Strong individual route performance: Galway-London increased by 23%, Waterford-London increased by 11%,Waterford-Manchester increase by 42%, Dublin-Galway by 13%
- Projected growth on existing routes and the launch of Dublin-Derry outweighing the pending departure of the Dublin-Kerry and Dublin-Knock routes
- Outlook for remainder 2008: June 2008 showing 18.4% increase on previous year, positive in Q3, Q4 on target so far in passenger terms
- Sterling reduction affecting yields, fuel price increase affect costs, but protected compared to other airlines by fuel economics of Aer Arann ATR aircraft fleet
- Leased aircraft to FinnComm (Finnair) and Flybe
Garry Cullen, Managing Director, Aer Arann said:
"For the first months to end May 2008, Aer Arann carried 430,000 passengers, a 3.1% increase on the same period last year. The month of May delivered strong results, with 105,677 passengers carried in one month, a 10% improvement on the same month last year, due to the great success of Munster Rugby and an excellent performance on Cork-Dublin route.
The underlying passenger results continue to be strong, against a background of tough trading conditions throughout the aviation industry. Our international routes have registered a record growth of 10% over the same period last year.
This year we have adjusted our business model through increasing the aircraft leasing side of the business. This has opened up new revenue streams and has enabled us to spread the risk during this difficult time for the airline industry.
Our fleet replacement and expansion programme has facilitated the leasing of spare aircraft to Finncomm (the commuter arm of Finnair) and Flybe, whilst still introducing our new fleet into our scheduled service. As a result, refining Aer Arann’s strategy and focus going forward means we can face any difficult conditions from a position of strength.
Individual routes have shown good results based on like for like with the first five months of 2007:
- Galway-London increase of 23%
- Waterford-London increase of 11%
- Waterford-Manchester increase of 42%
- Dublin-Galway increase of 13%
- Belfast-Cork increase of 11%
- Donegal-Glasgow increase of 12%
Aer Arann’s growth strategy focuses on connecting the regions with direct flights. Extending the Aer Arann footprint into continental Europe is one of the keys to the future. Aer Arann continued to expand its network with the announcement of six new routes to Amsterdam, Faro, Malaga, Bordeaux, Brest and La Rochelle in the first quarter. Aer Arann now has 16 routes to mainland Europe.
Despite the increase in fuel prices, Aer Arann is in relatively good shape to cope with fuel costs in excess of $130 per barrel. Whilst fuel prices are something we have no control over, our fuel hedging strategy and fuel-efficient aircraft have protected us. Our greatest advantage is that our aircraft, the ATR 72 and 42 aircraft, have the best fuel economics in the airline industry. Our ATR aircraft use 70% less fuel consumption than a jet on similar routes, and use as much fuel flying 370 kilometers (230 miles) as a Boeing 747 consumes in 10 minutes of taxiing. As a result, Aer Arann is better insulated from the fuel price spike than other airlines.
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| Fly for a lot less lolly - bags are free to fly with Aer Arann! |
27th May - Packing your bags and jetting to the sun has never been more tempting as Aer Arann announces their summer sale with fares as low as €25 including taxes and charges. The sale is available on all Aer Arann routes, domestic, UK and European until 10th June. Over 500,000 seats are available between now and the end of the year.
Check availability for your route here>>
Aer Arann not only offers great fares, but is also the only Irish airline with no check in baggage charges. Said Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing for Aer Arann, ‘On a flight for a family of four carrying one bag each, flying with Aer Arann can save a possible €96, compared to the charges of other airlines such Aer Lingus who charge €12 per bag one way and Ryanair who charge €10 for the first bag checked in rising to €20 for each additional bag one way’.
For passengers getting carried away with the souvenirs, Aer Arann compares favourably with other airlines with excess baggage charged at just at €7 per kg compared to €15 per kg with Ryanair and €9 per kg with Aer Lingus.
For availability on the campaign Get the Summer off to a flying start for a lot less lolly. Book from 26th May to June 11th and get fares as low as €25 including all taxes and charges. Travel period is year-round and the sale is available on all routes. Over 500,000 seats are available between now and the end of the year on the Aer Arann network.
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| Aer Arann Announces flying for a lot less lolly! 500,000 seats available with Aer Arann |
26th May - Get the Summer off to a flying start for a lot less lolly. Book from 26th May to June 11th and get fares as low as €25 including all taxes and charges. Travel period is year-round and the sale is available on all routes. Over 500,000 seats are available between now and the end of the year on the Aer Arann network. Check availability for your route here
Forget the price of oil, Aer Arann is still offering great deals on summer flights as Aer Arann already has the most fuel efficient and greenest fleet in Ireland. A typical Aer Arann flight uses 70% less fuel than a jet on similar routes. Our fleet of ATRs uses as much fuel on a typical sector as a Boeing 747 uses in ten minutes of taxiing.
Said Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann: ‘We are also lightening the load for customers this summer by refusing to sting them with hidden baggage or check-in charges. Other so called low-cost competitors charge extra for baggage or checking in at the airport, with anything between £8-100 depending on the nature of the luggage or circumstance. Aer Arann still have no baggage charges or check-in fess on any flights’
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| Aer Arann lifts Munster toward glory as Munster hordes contribute to best weekend ever |
23rd May - In the run up to the Heineken Cup Final between Munster and Toulouse, The Munster rugby team are flying on an Aer Arann Charter to Cardiff, as well as record numbers of Munster supporters.
The Munster ‘hordes’ are travelling in unprecedented numbers and Aer Arann is reporting its charter flights from Dublin, Cork and Shannon to Cardiff are full to capacity. Not only are the direct flights fully booked, but the Munster supporters, determined to see their team in action against the French side, are travelling with Aer Arann to cities as far north as Leeds, over 200miles from the home of the Millennium Stadium for the much anticipated clash.
Aer Arann’s Commercial Director Fergal Barry said, ‘Aer Arann provides charter services to away games for the Heineken Cup, Magners League, Barclays Premiership and UEFA Champions League throughout the year. By flying with Aer Arann, the Munster team will be able travel to Cardiff with no distractions so that they can focus on the match. Flying the Munster supporters, combined with the UK bank holiday weekend, has resulted in Aer Arann having its best weekend ever. We are carrying almost 6,000 passengers alone this Friday 23rd May!’
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| Aer Arann Dublin to City of Derry now available: prices from €25 one way |
16th May - Aer Arann Dublin to City of Derry Airport service is now available for sale on www.aerarann.com. Dublin to City of Derry Airport will operate double daily from July 22 2008, allowing customers to do a full day's business in Dublin or the City of Derry. Fares start from €25 one way, in sterling £20 one way. Aer Arann do not charge for baggage, nor do we charge check-in fees. All our seats are pre-assigned.
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| Dublin-Kerry route cancelled, all flights automatically refunded |
15th May - Aer Arann will no longer operate the Public Service Obligation route (PSO) from Dublin to Kerry. The service will continue until July 21st 2008, after which the schedule will cease. All bookings made for travel after July 21st 2008 on Aer Arann's Dublin-Kerry service will be refunded automatically to every customer. Refunds will be processed over the next few weeks. Customers do not have to contact the call centre or email Aer Arann - the refund process will happen automatically.
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| Aer Arann backs the Galway Senior Team as they take on Roscommon |
15th May - Aer Arann backs the Galway Senior Team as they take on Roscommon in the first round of the Connacht Senior Football Championship this Sunday, 18th May, at the Pearse Stadium.
The championship is here again – we, in Aer Arann are looking forward to a great summer of fine weather, looking after our passengers and Galway football. We are passionate about our airline and we wish Liam Sammon, Padraig Joyce and all the Galway team a long and successful championship campaign. The first game is the most important and, Roscommon are a good team with a great tradition. So, let the summer come and the championship begin. Galway, we are with you all the way.
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| Aer Arann wins the majority of Public Service Obligation Routes Contracts |
13th May - Aer Arann welcomes the announcement by the Minister for Transport that they have been awarded four of the six routes on offer in the PSO tender. The airline has won Derry-Dublin for the first time ever. It has also retained the Galway-Dublin, Sligo-Dublin and Donegal-Dublin routes. The contracts were awarded to Aer Arann following an open public tender process, conducted in accordance with EU Regulations.
Aer Arann's commitment to the development of the regional airports is further enhanced by the addition of this new Dublin-Derry service. The retention of the Galway, Sligo and Donegal services clearly reflects the success that Aer Arann has had in growing these routes and developing access to the regions.
Garry Cullen, Managing Director, Aer Arann said, "Aer Arann is delighted to win the Dublin-Derry tender, as well as retaining the Galway, Sligo and Donegal routes. We look forward to bringing the Aer Arann customer experience to this new route and to continuing to serve our valued customers on the Galway-Dublin, Donegal-Dublin and Sligo-Dublin routes. We wish to put on record our appreciation for the loyalty of our supporters on the Kerry-Dublin and Knock-Dublin routes over the past number of years."
Aer Arann will provide four daily return services on the Galway routes, and two daily return services on the Derry, Sligo and Donegal routes.
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| Aer Arann commence new jet routes to Malaga and Faro from Galway and Waterford Airports |
07th May - Aer Arann launched their new jet services to the sun destinations of Malaga and Faro from Galway and Waterford airports last weekend. These new Aer Arann jet routes provide customers with the convenience of direct services between the South East and Western regions of Ireland to the summer sun destinations of Spain and Portugal.
The Aer Arann Faro and Malaga services have been met with strong demand from passengers looking for sunshine and the convenience of travelling from their local airport. In addition to the twice weekly Faro and Malaga flights, Aer Arann has also launched their Amsterdam service, flying four times weekly from Galway and Waterford. Later this month, Aer Arann will further expand their schedule with services to Bordeaux and Lorient from both airports.
Garry Cullen, Managing Director, Aer Arann said, “Spain and Portugal are popular destinations for Irish sun seekers. Aer Arann’s flights to Malaga and Faro provide summer sun destinations direct from Galway and Waterford Airports. They have proven very popular, as the first flights over the May Bank holiday weekend were almost full”.
Managing Director of Galway Airport, Joe Walsh said, “Aer Arann’s expansion into Europe enables Galway Airport to provide a well rounded service to those in the Western region. The sun destinations of Malaga and Faro compliment the recent addition of the Amsterdam service from Galway and with further routes to France launching this month there is a great variety of destinations available.”
Waterford Airport’s CEO Graham Doyle said, “The new flights to Spain and Portugal have greatly widened the network of travel for those in the South East. These are terrific destinations for those planning their summer getaway and allow holiday makers to begin their travels early by setting off from their local airport.”
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| Aer Arann introduced improved schedule for Cork business passengers, adds Edinburgh frequencies, re-commences Cork-Southampton |
06th May - Aer Arann today launched a new improved schedule on the Cork-Dublin route. This new schedule is in response to passenger demand for an improved choice of timings in the morning. Aer Arann has reintroduced an 8am departure, flight number RE604, arriving in Dublin at 8.55am. Cork passengers can now choose from 7am and 8am departures for flights to Dublin.
Said Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing: ‘This improved schedule allows passengers the choice of two flights before 9am. Aer Arann is the best value airline on the Dublin Cork routes, as it is the only airline on the route offering the following combination:
*Five flights a day
*No Baggage Charges
* No Check-in Fees
* Shortest check-in time in Ireland: 30 minutes
* Zero change fees on Dublin-Cork route – all tickets can be changed for free on the day
* Allocated seating – no scrums to get your seat
* Complimentary Tea/Coffee and a newspaper onboard every flight
Aer Arann is also adding extra frequencies from Cork to Edinburgh: there are now two flights per day on Friday and Sunday. The Cork-Southampton route is re-introduced, with one flight a day, four days a week.
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| Aer Arann has best ever May bank Holiday uplift |
05th May - Aer Arann carried almost 20,000 passengers over the May Bank Holiday, 15% ahead of the May Bank holiday weekend last year. Amsterdam, London and Edinburgh were the most popular citybreak destinations, and Faro and Malaga the most popular sun destinations.
Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, Colin Lewis said: “Bookings for the May bank holiday weekend are well ahead of last year. Our first flights to Amsterdam, Faro and Malaga took place this weekend, and they are really proving popular with customers. Ireland needs to prepare for a Dutch invasion as well, as bookings show a huge level of interest in our inbound flights from Amsterdam’.
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| Blooming Marvellous! Aer Arann commence new route to Amsterdam from Waterford & Galway |
01st May - Aer Arann has launched their new Amsterdam route from Galway and Waterford Airport today. The launch was marked with celebrations hosted by the regional airports. The new Aer Arann route will provide its customers with the convenience of direct services between the West and the Southeast to mainland Europe and beyond.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a global gateway for over 290 destinations with 50 million passengers passing through every year. Since the announcement of the new route in January, seat sales have exceeded expectation.
Garry Cullen, Managing Director, Aer Arann said, “Aer Arann is proud to be expanding its services from Galway and Waterford. We see this new route to Amsterdam as further evidence of Aer Arann’s commitment to the development of the regions. We are particularly delighted with the level of bookings on our inbound flights from Amsterdam. Aer Arann is showing that we can bring new untapped tourism markets to the South-East and to the West of Ireland.”
Managing Director of Galway Airport, Joe Walsh said, “Aer Arann and Galway Airport offer the only service from Amsterdam to the West of Ireland. The accessibility afforded to the western region with the introduction of this new route is fundamental to the continued development of the region”.
Graham Doyle, Chief Executive, Waterford Airport said, “Aer Arann’s new routes from Waterford to mainland Europe are a terrific boost for both the airport and the region. In particular, having a direct route to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, one of the busiest and best connected in Europe, provides a gateway that is invaluable to the development of the Southeast region.”
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| Going Dutch! Aer Arann delivers Dutch tourists to the West from the first flight! |
24th April - Going Dutch! Aer Arann delivers Dutch tourists to the West from the first flight!
With the new Amsterdam Schiphol route from Galway and Waterford set to commence 1st May, Aer Arann is reporting its first flight from the Amsterdam airport already has 50% of its passengers on the flights originating in Holland.
Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, Colin Lewis said: “The route from Amsterdam to Galway has experience unprecedented demand in the run up to the routes commencement. The flights start next Thursday, and each flight for the first weekend has almost 50% of its passenger coming from Holland. This is a great achievement considering it is a brand new route, and the first ever route from Amsterdam to the West. This is great news for Galway and further confirms the western region as a popular destination for visitors from Europe”.
Managing Director of Galway Airport, Joe Walsh said “We are thrilled that Aer Arann is having such success with this new route. The strength of their passenger numbers flying to Galway is terrific news for the region and for the industries that are dependent on tourism.”
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| Aer Arann are propelling the green message by pledging a tree per passenger on World Earth Day |
22nd April - To mark World Earth Day, Aer Arann has pledged to donate one tree for every passenger booking with them on the day through the charity Bothar. Aer Arann expects to sponsor a minimum of 5,000 trees. Aer Arann’s Commercial Director, Fergal Barry said: “This is Aer Arann putting its ‘green’ foot forward. We acknowledge the environmental concerns of our passengers and we want them to know that we do care with this gesture of support for World Earth Day.”
Aer Arann already has the greenest aircraft fleet in Ireland. Aer Arann's decisions to update and renew our fleet with ATR’s new generation 72-500 turboprop aircraft represents the most environmentally sound choice for flyers.
Barry stated “Aer Arann has recently invested €180 million in a new fleet of ATR 72-500’s. Our new ATR turboprop aircraft are recognized as the most fuel efficient aircraft in their category, emitting 20% less CO2 per kilometre than newer jets, and using up to 70 per cent less fuel than a similar-sized jet on the same length flight. Our ATR 72-500s uses as much fuel on a typical 370km sector as a Boeing 747 uses in ten minutes of taxiing.”
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| Aer Arann serving Craggy Island from Luton, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh |
18th Feb - Book flights with Aer Arann, go on, go on, go on….
Followers of Father Ted will be making a pilgrimage to the hallowed Craggy Island later this month to pay homage to their hero at the official Ted Fest.They will be winging their way with Aer Arann, one of Europe’s fastest growing regional airlines. Aer Arann is pleased to announce it is an official Ted Fest Travel Partner.
Colin Lewis, head of sales and marketing at Aer Arann confirms “The bishop doesn’t know yet, but we will be transporting priests, nuns and lovely girls to the Aran Islands”.The festival takes place in two locations, inland Ireland at the town of Kilfenora (25-27 February), and on the Aran Island of Inis Mor (29 February – 2 March). Celebrations on Inis Mor will celebrate the island’s alias of ‘Craggy Island’, starting with a cabaret night, and leading onto ‘Sporting’ Saturday and ‘Spiritual’ Sunday.
There will be plenty of goings on (go on, go on, go on) including Dermot Morgan Memorial Priests and Nuns 5-a-side, the ‘Lovely Girls Competition’, and every punter’s favourite – ‘Dunk the Monk in the World’s Biggest Cup of Tea’ Aer Arann is proud to sponsor this particular occasion – “it has been ten years since Father Ted had its last hurrah with the filming of the final episode, we are glad to be blessed with the prestige of being an official carrier a decade later” adds Colin Lewis.
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| Love is in the aer with Aer Arann |
14th Feb - Leap over to Ireland with Aer Arann’s top romantic destinations
Aer Arann, one of Europe’s fastest growing regional airlines, encourages all women; brave enough to propose on 29 February this leap year, to think Ireland as the place to pop the question for 2008. From lush green landscapes and ancient castles to bustling cities and sparkling coastlines, Ireland offers romance, intrigue and breathtaking opportunities. For proposals, weddings or honeymoons leap over to Ireland and fall in love with its striking cities including Sligo, Galway and Waterford.
The Place of Shells
The adventure minded romantic should head straight to Sligo; its nearby beaches offer some of the best surfing around and the beautiful sunsets will provide the ideal romantic backdrop for a proposal. To woo your man whisk him away to one of the many golf clubs or try a shellfish dinner in town as Sligo literally translates as ‘the place of shells’.
Rugged Romance
Be blown away by Galway and its rugged coastlines or hop over to the nearby Aran Islands. The bustling city of Galway is home to the famous Galway races and Oyster festival and is the nearest city to one of the most romantic dwellings in Ireland. Ashford Castle was the venue of choice for Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith when they tied the knot. The castle has over 350 acres of beautiful wooded parkland, lakes for fishing, a falconry and a health and beauty spa. This is the ultimate venue for leap day proposals.
Crystal Clear
Waterford, famous for its crystal, has a medieval flavour having been established in Viking times. Its cobbled streets and active marina are perfect for romantic walks and the city is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. The nearby beaches have an exotic feel to them, ideal if you fancy returning for a beach wedding.
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| Waterford Chamber announced Aer Arann as overall winner |
8th Feb - Waterford Chamber announced Aer Arann as overall winner for Business Excellence in the Tourism/Hospitality category. Aer Arann were recognised on a local level for their commitment to excellence for Hospitality/Tourism, alongside local Waterford businesses in manufacturing, retail, and services.
On receiving the award, Fergal Barry, Commercial Director for Aer Arann, said: “We are delighted to be recognised for our initiatives in Waterford and our commitment to the South East region. 2007 was a year of record growth for Aer Arann with rapid expansion of our route network and passenger numbers in excess of 1.15 million, a 10% increase over 2006. Aer Arann also recently added four new routes to its network out of Waterford: Amsterdam, Bordeaux, Malaga and Faro. These routes will commence on 1st May 2008. This brings to eight the number of routes offered by Aer Arann from Waterford this summer – with a choice of weekend, holiday and business destinations and excellent opportunities for onward connections, particularly through Schiphol, one of Europe’s main hubs.”
In his speech Deputy Mayor Cllr. Tom Cunningham praised all nominees commenting that it is businesses of this calibre that drive the development of Waterford and commended Chamber and VHI Healthcare on their recognition of local excellence.
Chamber President Andrew O’Neill also acknowledged the pivotal role which these businesses play in Waterford’s growth and commended each of the 16 nominees. He also thanked VHI Healthcare for their great support and commented that he looked forward to their continued backing as Waterford Chamber develops the promotion of excellence in business over the years ahead.
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| St Patrick's Day Festivities - Aer Arann’s top spots to be on 17 March this year |
3rd Feb - Be a part of the wonderful festivities this St. Patrick’s Day and celebrate with a trip to the Emerald Isle. See Ireland truly come alive with an explosion of fun and entertainment that’s sure to rival any carnival street party with lavish parades, street theatre and music galore.
Try your luck in the wild west of Galway – this seaside city will this year be hosting its 105th St Patrick’s Day Parade and the carnival atmosphere always draws strong crowds. Performers from all over the world will boost the entertainment, and when the parade is over find a place to eat in the city that has more restaurants per capita than any other Irish city.
Experience the wonderful charm of Ireland and the Irish in Cork. The newly refurbished Cork City centre has attractive shopping boulevards, restaurants and pubs. With over 600 retail outlets located around Patrick Street you will be spoilt for choice. Cork is renowned for its cuisine - indulge in some of its famed delights at Barry’s Tea Market held in conjunction with Mahon Point Farmers Market on Emmet Place.
St Patrick’s Day in Dublin has a phenomenal five days and five nights of celebrations to contend with, starting from 13 March until the actual day on 17 March. From the opening night celebrations to the parade on the last day, there is certainly a lot to keep punters amused in between.
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| Aer Arann Announces Record Growth In 2007 |
28th Jan - Ireland ’s regional airline continues to gain momentum in Irish, UK and French markets, generating record numbers in major airports, gaining market share in the UK and successfully initiating its fleet replacement programme with the ATR 72-500 ‘Green Machine’. The management team is poised for continued growth in 2008, with the following highlights:
- Record growth
- Turnover in excess of €100 million per annum, a 6% increase over 2006
- Passenger numbers in excess of 1.15 million, a 10% increase over 2006
- 600 flights per week across 40 routes in Ireland, UK and France
- Outlook strong: high load factors and continued growth in 2008
New routes - 2007
Aer Arann continued to expand its network at a rapid rate in 2007 with the announcement of six new regional routes from Cardiff, Bristol, Manchester, Newcastle and Birmingham. Fergal Barry, Commercial Director with Aer Arann commented: “Our growth strategy is focused on improving connectivity from the regions whilst providing exemplary customer service. Our new routes have allowed Aer Arann to broaden its customer base from visiting friends and relatives traffic to the wider UK leisure and business customer. Our new routes in 2007 surpassed our expectations and we expect our 2008 new routes to yield similar success.”
Record Traffic
In the year ending December 2007, Aer Arann carried in excess of 1.15m passengers, the highest figure recorded to date and an increase of 9900% from 12,000 passengers in 1999. This is also a considerable achievement given that Aer Arann only commenced regular scheduled traffic in 1998.
In 2007, the Dublin Airport Authority announced that Aer Arann was the third largest operator into Dublin Airport, carrying almost 800,000 passengers through the airport in one year. Aer Arann is now bigger than Air France, SAS, BA, Cityjet, Lufthansa, Delta, Iberia and Continental at Dublin Airport based on official passenger numbers published by the Dublin Airport Authority.
Aer Arann passenger figures reached an all time high in August 2007 where the airline carried 135,000 passengers in one month. The airline achieved an unprecedented 100% load factor for the bank holiday weekend in October 2007 on all our international routes.
In 2007, Aer Arann invested heavily in the UK market with a €1m campaign to raise awareness. Aer Arann’s numbers ex-UK has increased by almost 3% as a percentage of overall sales.
The Galway-London route moved 20% ahead of 2006. Increased passenger demand meant that Aer Arann increased frequency on this route to three flights a day – every day. Galway - London broke the 9,000 per month passenger barrier in August 2007, and is going from strength to strength. The Waterford - London route achieved 9,000 passengers per month by the third quarter. The new base in Waterford allowed Aer Arann to offer and improved schedule and new routes in the form of Waterford-Birmingham, which has proved a resounding success.
New fleet
As part of a £128 million investment, Aer Arann welcomed two of the ten ATR 72-500 ordered in May 2006. The new ATR 72-500 is the first of ten new aircraft to be delivered over the next two years. By 2009, all of the Aer Arann fleet will be brand new. The ATR 72-500 offers Aer Arann customers new levels of comfort and efficiency. Several factors combine to make the ATR an environmentally friendly aircraft: lower emissions of CO2 due to reduced fuel burn, 70% lower fuel consumption than a jet on similar routes, and new standards in the industry for quietness. The new aircraft has resulted in much improved customer experience, reliability and operational economics.
New base, new hangar
During May 2007, Aer Arann announced major expansion from Waterford airport through the opening of a new base with the creation of 45 new jobs. This is the fourth base Aer Arann has in Ireland adding to those in Dublin, Cork and Galway.
In June 2007, Aer Arann and Galway Airport announced the creation of 30 new jobs as result of a major expansion at the airport. A new purpose built hangar was built at Galway airport, which will house a new engineering base for Aer Arann. The new hangar and engineering base carries out most of its maintenance requirements for the airline.
Management Team
2007 was marked not only by excellent commercial progress, but also by considerable strengthening of the management teams. Aer Arann has been able to attract further high calibre management and staff. These appointments will strengthen the existing team and drive the Company's next phase of growth and planned internationalisation:
Notable appointments over the past year have been:
- Paul Schutz, Finance Director. Previously, Paul held senior finance roles with Ryanair, BWIA, Virgin Express and Eirjet.
- Fergal Barry, Commercial Director - former Finance Director, Aer Arann.
- Mick Conlon, Head of Engineering – former Engineering Manager, Aer Arann, and has held engineering roles in Ryanair, Qantas and the Irish AirCorps.
Ground handling savings
In May 2007, Aer Arann conducted a review of its ground handling operation in Dublin Airport. As a result, Aer Arann decided to transfer its check-in, boarding, dispatch and baggage tracing functions to Sky Handling during June. This resulted in significant cost savings for the airline, while maintaining high standards of service for our customers.
Aer Arann Policy on Green Issues
In 2007, many accusations were levelled against the airline industry and its effects on the environment. Aer Arann is committed to the principles of energy efficiency. In 2007, Aer Arann implemented specific policies, which both counter common industry practice and tackles public perceptions of the aviation industry being a significant contributor to global warming compared to other large polluter:
- Aer Arann believes consumers should have an environmental conscience when choosing how they travel and this will encourage the transport industry to become more environmentally accountable.
- Aircraft emissions are just 3% of EU CO2 emissions, according to EU. Secondly, Regional airlines - passenger airline services which provide services to smaller communities, account for just 12% of carbon dioxide attributed to airline emissions.
- Air taxation is not an effective way to tackle environmental issues, for example, the UK APD. Aer Arann believe that investment in technology by the transport industry is a more productive route, reducing the impact of transport without inhibiting travel
- The ability of regional airlines with turboprop engines, such as Aer Arann, to operate at lower altitudes means the ozone layer and upper atmosphere remain unaffected by them. Flying at lower altitudes also saves fuel and is less harmful to the environment.
For example: from Dublin to Cardiff, the distance is 300 kilometres or 163 nautical miles, Aer Arann’s ATRs consume around 550 kilos of fuel. A jet such as a Boeing 737-800 on the same route uses most of the fuel just for take-off - often using a ton of fuel just to reach cruising level. It takes three Aer Arann flights from Cardiff use the same amount of fuel as a Boeing 737 uses in one flight.
Aer Arann commissions new aircraft livery
To coincide with the arrival of the new aircraft, a new livery was commissioned. Inspired by Celtic rings, or triskels, from the ancient monuments at Newgrange in County Meath, DesignCorp have reinterpreted the traditional patterns and given them a modern and playful twist. The colour scheme incorporates refreshed and updated corporate colours, giving the aircraft a distinctive look.
Charter services
Aer Arann has also seen an increase in its charter services. The airline’s fleet of ATR aircraft of 72 and 50 seater aircraft offer the ideal number of seats for groups. The total number of passengers using Aer Arann's charter services totalled 198,000 in 2007. This includes both charter flights and wet lease flights. Aer Arann's prestigious client list included IRFU, Welsh Rugby Union, Munster, Leinster andConnacht Rugby, Sunderland Football Club, Kerry GAA, Galway United and the drivers and teams of the Rally Ireland round of the World Rally Championship.
Commenting Managing Director Garry Cullen said:
"2007 confirmed our expectations of strong growth, despite increased competition across all routes. Aer Arann's success is grounded on having the right management to maintain our momentum. 2008 will be a very exciting time for the airline, with considerable effort focussed on our franchise routes to Amsterdam, Bordeaux, Malaga and Faro, and extending the Aer Arann footprint into Europe."
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| Aer Arann launch new VIP programme for frequent travellers called ‘Silver Club’ |
28th Jan - Aer Arann today launched a new VIP programme, called Silver Club. This new programme is designed to recognise Aer Arann’s loyal customers and make their travel simpler and easier. Aer Arann Silver Club will be invitation only, and strictly for Aer Arann frequent flyers, who will get even more benefits for flying.
Right now, Aer Arann is the only airline offering customers:
- No Baggage Charges
- No Check-in Fees
- The lowest check-in time in Ireland: 30 minutes
- Zero change fees on Dublin-Cork route – all tickets can be changed for free on the day
- Allocated seating – no scrums to get your seat
- Complimentary Tea/Coffee and a news paper onboard every flight
Aer Arann Silver Club members will now receive in addition:
- Business lounge Access in Dublin and Cork Airport, where customers can relax or catch up on work before flights
- Recognition at check-in to ensure Silver Club members has the best seats on the aircraft
- Zero change fees on all routes
- Extra checked-in baggage allowance to 25kgs
- A designated Aer Arann Silver Club telephone number
- A unique booking section on aerarann.com, where Silver Club members will have the ability to book, track, report on, manage and change Aer Arann bookings.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing Aer Arann, said: “Aer Arann has launched the Silver Club as recognition of the loyalty of our customers. Silver Club is very simple for members to operate: there are no tiers, no points to count and no complexity. We believe Silver Club will make our customers’ lives easier, reducing the hassle of travel, and enhancing the door to door experience”.
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| Aer Arann Announces Flights to La Rochelle from Cork |
28th Jan - Aer Arann today announced a new route from Cork to La Rochelle, adding to its existing three French routes out of Cork. Aer Arann now flies to five destinations in France from Cork, Kerry, Galway and Waterford.
The Cork to La Rochelle service will operate every Saturday effective from May 24th to September 13th. 2008. Flights will depart Cork on RE 707 at 13:00, arriving in at 16:05. RE707 will depart La Rochelle at 16:45 and arrive in Cork at 17:50. All services will be operated by an ATR 72 aircraft until September 2008.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “We are delighted to be increasing our network of French routes for 2008. This is Aer Arann’s third route to France from Cork, along with Lorient and Nantes. Fares on the route start from €69".
Thomas Juin , La Rochelle Airport Manager: “ La Rochelle is one of the most picturesque and historically rich cities on the Atlantic coast. The connection between Cork and La Rochelle is perfect for 2008, as Ireland is the guest of honour at the Grand Pavois - one of the biggest international boat shows in September”.
Kevin Cullinane, Marketing Manager, Cork Airport congratulated both Aer Arann on its announcement saying: “Cork Airport welcomes this latest addition to our ever expanding route network and Aer Arann's continuing confidence in its French routes from Cork. As Cork has the oldest yacht club in the world, the Royal Cork Yacht Club, and La Rochelle is the home of the oldest yacht club in France, la Société des Régates Rochelaises, this service will provide great opportunities for sailing fraternities to meet.”
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| Increased capacity announced for Ireland v Scotland & Ireland v Wales |
27th Jan - Due to high demand for Six Nations matchs we can now offer extra capacity for the Ireland/Scotland match from Inverness to Dublin on 23rd Feb returning 24th Feb and for the Ireland/Wales match from Cardiff to Dublin on Thur 6th and Fri 7th March returning Monday 10th March. Click here to book now>>
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| Aer Arann Announces Flights to Brest from Cork |
11th Jan - Aer Arann, Ireland's premier regional airline, today announced a new route from Cork to Brest.
The Cork to Brest service will operate every Wednesday and Saturdays effective from 17th May 2008. Flights will depart Cork on the Wednesday on RE 735 at 10am, arriving into Brest at 12.40. RE 736 will depart Brest on Wednesdays at 13.15 arriving in Cork at 14.00. Flights will depart Cork on the Saturday on RE 731 at 8.30am, arriving into Brest at 11.10. RE 732 will depart Brest on Saturdays at 11.45 arriving in Cork at 12.30pm. All services will be operated by an ATR 72 aircraft until September 2008.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said; “We are delighted to be increasing our network of French routes for 2008. Brest is the ideal destination for Cork customer wishing to spend a long weekend exploring the city, or perhaps tour through the dramatic Brittany landscape nearby. This is our third route to France from Cork, and fares on the route start from €69".
Kevin Cullinane, Marketing Manager, Cork Airport congratulated both Aer Arann on its announcement saying: “The connections between Brittany and Ireland are well-known. Cork Airport welcomes this latest addition to our ever expanding route network and Aer Arann's continuing confidence in its French routes from Cork Airport. I am confident the people of Munster will show their appreciation for this expansion by supporting the new route in large numbers”.
Click here to see our European routes timetable (PDF 25K)>>
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| Aer Arann Announces Expansion into Continental Europe |
10th Jan - Aer Arann today announced it has entered a franchise agreement with Nex Aviation. The franchise will add four new routes to the Aer Arann network. The new destinations are Amsterdam , Bordeaux, Malaga, and Faro. The new services will come into effect on May 1st from Galway Airport and Waterford Airport.
Commenting on the announcement, Garry Cullen, Managing Director at Aer Arann, said: “Today’s announcement represents significant route opportunity for Aer Arann. These four new destinations will provide greater choice and easier access to continental Europe for our customers in the West and South East. In addition to the sun destinations, this route expansion offers services to Amsterdam Schiphol. Schiphol offers the best connections of any airport in the world, with more than 260 destinations in 91 countries. “
The new route expansion comes on the back of a franchise deal between Aer Arann and Nex Aviation. The services will be sold as part of the Aer Arann network. The 100 seater BAE 146-200 jet has leather seats and a generous seat pitch of 31 inches. This aircraft will operate alongside Aer Arann’s current fleet of 14 ATR turbo-prop aircraft. This announcement follows the 2007 delivery of two new ATR 72-500 aircraft, the first in a fleet of 10 to be delivered by 2009.
Mr. Cullen continued: “Aer Arann’s partnership with Nex Aviation allows us to expand our range and underpins the Aer Arann strategy of connecting regional Ireland to the UK and mainland Europe. Of course, the inflight experience offered on board will be the same high quality that Aer Arann’s passengers expect”.
Peter O’Mara, Chief Executive of Nex Aviation said: “Nex Aviation is delighted to announce this partnership with Aer Arann. The Aer Arann brand is firmly established as a household name, and it is a huge benefit to Nex Aviation. Connecting the two regions to a major global hub such as Amsterdam Schiphol is a significant development in access. We anticipate further exciting new routes to be announced in 2008.”
Amsterdam Schiphol Director Aviation Marketing, Jop van Unnik, said: “Amsterdam Schiphol is the fifth largest airport in Europe and offers the best connections of any airport in the world, with more than 260 destinations in 91 countries. We are delighted that Aer Arann has chosen to fly to Amsterdam Schiphol and offer great connectivity to the South-East and the West of Ireland”.
Waterford Airport Chief Executive, Graham Doyle said: “This is very exciting news for Waterford Airport and the South-East region. It brings to eight the number of routes offered by Aer Arann from Waterford this summer – with a choice of weekend, holiday and business destinations and excellent opportunities for onward connections, particularly through Schiphol, one of Europe’s main hubs”.
Joe Walsh, Managing Director, Galway Airport congratulated both Aer Arann and Nex Aviation on their announcement saying: “Connectivity is a key business need, these services Amsterdam Schiphol, Faro, Malaga and Bordeaux are a significant step forward in linking businesses on the western seaboard with Europe and the rest of the world. Galway Airport has become the airport of choice in the West for air travel within Ireland, to the UK and now to Continental Europe due to its convenience, range of destinations and the frequency of services.”
The new services will come into effect on May 1st from Galway Airport and Waterford Airport. Flights will operate daily from both airports to alternate destinations:
- Monday: Bordeaux and Amsterdam
- Tuesday: Malaga
- Wednesday: Faro
- Thursday: Amsterdam
- Friday: Bordeaux and Amsterdam
- Saturday: Malaga
- Sunday: Faro and Amsterdam
Click here to see our European routes timetable (PDF 25K)>>
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| Aer Arann Announces Biggest Ever Seat Sale! |
02nd Jan - 1 Million Seats Up for Grabs on All Routes for Year Round Travel
Get the New Year off to a flying start with Aer Arann’s 1 Million Seat Sale. Book from 6th January to 25th January and get fares as low as €20 including all taxes and charges. Travel period is year-round and the sale is available on all routes.
Get in quickly and book flights for a match in Manchester, a special Valentine’s break in Galway, Cork or Waterford or a summer city break to the Edinburgh, London, or any of our 40 routes across Ireland, the UK, and France. Subject to availability.
Colin Lewis head of Sales and Marketing with Aer Arann cabin crew promoting the launch of the Aer Arann
1 million seat sale.
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| Get weekends off to a flying start with Aer Arann Happy Hour! |
01st Dec - Aer Arann are inviting customers to enjoy Happy Hour with them every Thursday and Friday. From 1pm to 2pm on Thursdays and Fridays, Aer Arann will release a number of special promotional fares on a selection of domestic and international routes. Customers can avail of these flights by logging onto www.aerarann.com and clicking on the Happy Hour button. Happy Days!
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| Aer Arann extends Christmas shopping seat sale |
01st Nov - Aer Arann have announced an extension on their Christmas Shopping seat sale campaign with fares from just €25* one-way to many great shopping cities across the UK including London, Cardiff, Manchester and Newcastle.
Colin Lewis , Head of Sales and Marketing for Aer Arann commented: “We have had such a great response to our Christmas Shopping seat sale. Lots of Aer Arann customers have already bagged seats to the UK so we have extended the opportunity to book to all those looking to grab a pre-Christmas break across the water for an extra seven days”.
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| Aer Arann increases flights from the West of Ireland to London |
05th October - Due to increased customer demand, Aer Arann, Europe’s premier regional airline is increasing flights from their Galway base to London Luton to 3 flights per day from the 15th October.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “The increased frequency on this Galway popular service will make travel to London much more convenient, affordable and flexible for both business and leisure passengers. The route will now carry up to 5,000 extra passengers per month, which will provide a great boost to our Galway hub”.
The extra Galway- London Luton service will operate 6 days per week, timetable below:
Departure |
Arrival |
Galway |
12.30 |
London Luton |
14.15 |
London Luton |
14.45 |
Galway |
16.35 |
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| Zoom to the Cork Jazz Festival with Aerarann.com |
04th October - Enjoy a lively mid-term break and fly to the Cork Jazz Festival with Aer Arann, Europe’s premier regional airline.
Renowned as Europe’s friendliest jazz festival, the Cork jazz festival this year celebrates its 30 th year. This world-famous festival takes place from 26th – 29th October with some 1,000 musicians from over 30 countries entertaining fans in over 80 venues across the lively city of Cork including Cork Opera House, Everyman theatre and local pubs and clubs.
Having hosted many of the ‘greats’ of jazz in the past such as Ella Fitzgerald and Buddy Rich, this year’s prestigious line-up will not disappoint and includes Rob Strong, Mary Coughlan, The American Drifters, A470 Big Band, Natty and Adamant Marching Band. Cork jazz festival is a great chance to enjoy the charismatic hospitality and charm of Cork, situated on Southern Ireland’s scenic coast, whilst soaking up some great live jazz.
Aer Arann operate scheduled flights to Cork from Cardiff, Leeds Bradford, Bristol, Edinburgh and Belfast. For more information and bookings log onto www.aerarann.com.
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