Get weekends off to a flying start with Aer Arann Happy Hour!

Aer Arann extends Christmas shopping seat sale

Aer Arann increases flights from the West of Ireland to London

Zoom to the Cork Jazz Festival with Aerarann.com

Aer Arann and Manchester Airport partner to offer 220 destinations worldwide to the West

Aer Arann reaches milestone anniversary plus increases Leeds - Cork flight frequency to daily

Aer Arann introduces M-ticket

Aer Arann announce Rally Ireland Championship sponsorship

Galway-London now the second biggest cross-channel route for Aer Arann

Aer Arann launches group travel initative

Waterford-London now the biggest cross-channel route for Aer Arann

Day trip to the Kingdom on All Ireland Sunday for just €40!!

Double Whammy! Aer Arann Celebrates 250,000 Passengers plus 5 years at Edinburgh Airport

Aer Arann Introduce Online Check in for Cork routes

Aer Arann Aircraft Mechanic Apprenticeship Scheme

Busiest Week Ever for Aer Arann, Nearly 30,000 Passengers Take to the Skies

Aer Arann supports Sunderland with charter flights to all home Premiership games

Roy Keane discusses the Aer Arann sponsored Sunderland tour of Ireland

Sunderland set to soar in Ireland as Aer Arann sponsored pre-season tour commences

Aer Arann now one of the largest operators at Dublin Airport

Security Alert in the UK - No Disruption to Aer Arann Flights

Aer Arann and Galway airport announce 30 new jobs  

Aer Arann introduces online check-in

Aer Arann to launch Dublin Cardiff service

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!

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”.

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:

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.

03rd October - Aer Arann and Manchester Airport have joined forces to tell our customers in the West about the great options for onward connections direct from Galway Airport to Manchester Airport and onwards to the rest of the world.

Manchester Airport is the UK’s largest regional airport handling 22 million passengers a year. More than 100 airlines offer direct flights from Manchester to 225 destinations worldwide, more than any other UK airport.

Lewis continued: “Aer Arann flies 54 flights a week between Ireland and Manchester. Our flights from Galway operate every day of the week with two daily flights on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday. Our passengers from Galway can connect with Singapore, JFK, Chicago and Scandinavia, as well as many short-haul European destinations such as Amsterdam and Brussels. Using the evening flight, there are even more exotic long haul destinations such as Dubai and Doha.

Nadine Callan, Head of Airline Marketing, Manchester Airport said: ‘ Manchester Airport welcomes 10,000 passengers a month from Kerry, Waterford, Galway and Sligo. Manchester Airport offers the ideal gateway for these passengers to connect with the rest of the world.

Continued Lewis: ‘Passengers should first choose from the amazing destinations available to them on www.manchesterairport.co.uk. Once they have picked their flights, passengers can book their connecting flights on www.aerarann.com, allowing up to two hours connecting time.’

Over one million customers have travelled with Aer Arann across their 40 routes to 25 great destinations across Ireland, France and the UK. Our new ATR aircraft are the greenest aircraft in the UK and Ireland - an environmentally friendly aircraft with lower emissions of CO2 due to reduced fuel burn, 70% lower fuel consumption than a jet on similar routes and sets new standards in the industry for quietness. Join them by visiting www.aerarann.com or call their reservations team on 0818 210 210.

02nd October - Aer Arann, Europe’s premier regional airline is celebrating its 1st anniversary of the Galway service from Leeds Bradford. In addition, due to the success of the Cork service, the airline will increase the frequency of flights to this lively city-break destination to daily flights for the winter, up from five days per week.

Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “The Galway and Cork services, as two of the top Irish short-break destinations, have proved to be huge success stories for Aer Arann at Leeds Bradford. Indeed Leeds Bradford continues to be a popular destination for the Irish, both for students or as a gateway to Yorkshire and beyond. Our 25,000 passengers who have availed of the Leeds Bradford services in the past year seem to agree!”

"We are extremely pleased to celebrate the 1st anniversary of Aer Arann’s Galway service from Leeds Bradford Airport” commented Sam Wynzar, Communications Officer with Leeds Bradford Airport. “The flights to Cork and Galway have proved to be a great enhancement to the services available from the airport and Aer Arann have shown strong commitment to reliability and customer service over the past 12 months, a pledge that our passengers really appreciate" she added.

06th September - Aer Arann , Ireland ’s leading regional airline today launched a new free text messaging service for customers booking with the airline. Aer Arann is the first Irish airline to introduce this free service.

Aer Arann customers will now be able to receive all booking reference numbers by text message when they book online on www.aerarann.com. The airline’s new service is available immediately as a result of an innovation on the Aer Arann website which makes the booking process mobile friendly.

Commenting on this new service, Colin Lewis Head of Sales and Marketing said, “We are constantly looking at ways of improving our service to our customers. This new text service allows our customers access their flight reference number and details directly from their mobile phone.”

05th September - Aer Arann today announced a partnership with Rally Ireland. Aer Arann will be Rally Ireland’s official airline during the Irish stage of the World Rally Championship (WRC) taking place in Ireland for the first time from this November. This is Aer Arann’s first sponsorship of Rally Ireland and the airline will be flying the world’s top drivers and motor sports enthusiasts to Belfast and Sligo during the four day event.

Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, said: “It’s fantastic for motor-sport in Ireland that this major event has been brought here. As official airline, Aer Arann is delighted to fly the world’s top drivers between stages and bring supporters along to see the action. ”

Rally Ireland WRC takes place from 15th to 18th November 2007, commencing with a Super Special Stage at Parliament buildings in Belfast and with Special Stages throughout the beautiful north-western counties of Ireland.

Ronan Morgan, Rally Ireland, added "The partnership with Aer Arann is important as it will allow us to transport the drivers to Belfast and Sligo return for the Super Special start at Stormont. We will be the first country in the WRC series to use air transport in this way."

Rosanna Davidson, Shaun Gallagher and Gareth Mchale at the launch of the Aer Arann World Rally Championship Sponsorship

03rd September - The Galway-London Luton route carried 9,001 passengers in August 2007 – the first time any cross-channel route from Galway has passed the 9,000 passengers per month mark.

Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, announced: “We are delighted that Aer Arann’s Galway-London Luton route is our first route to break the 9,000 passengers per month target. Our business on the Galway-London route is 20% ahead of August 2006.’

Lewis continued: “This news is a great follow up to last month’s announcement that August 2007 has been the busiest ever for Aer Arann. Our decision last May to increase frequency from Galway to London to three times a day, four days a week has been vindicated. Our customers in the West have really responded – Aer Arann’s passenger numbers out of Galway Airport are up a whopping 24% year to date 2007, compared to 2006. Aer Arann is truly the West’s favourite airline!

Michael Moloney, Marketing Manager of Galway Airport, said: “I’m delighted that Aer Arann Galway-London Luton now carries over 9,000 passengers. The increased frequency and better timings on this route has given great flexibility to the people in the West. I’m delighted for Aer Arann’s success, and believe it will not be long before we hit the 10,000 mark”.

03rd September - Aer Arann, one of Europe’s fastest growing regional airlines, today announces the introduction of special booking rates for group bookings. This special initiative provides the perfect opportunity for parties of 10-66 people to make Ireland your destination for family celebrations, school trips, hen nights, stag do’s or weddings.

The crème de la crème of this special group booking offer is, due to the smaller size of Aer Arann aircraft, this is an exciting opportunity to fill up the whole plane with your friends and family, on a scheduled flight, for the ultimate Irish weekend!

Whether you choose the surfing spots of the stunning west coast, the drinking dens, live music and bustle of Galway, the fabulous Irish golf courses in the regions of Ireland or the culture and charm in and around Waterford, Aer Arann makes it easy for friends and family to travel together to discover the ‘real’ Ireland.

For sporting enthusiasts, equipment such as golf clubs and surf boards can be taken on the plane. Aer Arann offers a free baggage allowance of 20 kgs per passenger in the hold and 7 kgs carry on, making packing that bit easier. Especially useful for a group booking, ticket names do not have to be confirmed until 4 weeks before departure with changes allowed up to 1 day before departure.

Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, says,"We are delighted to be able to offer this group incentive and hope it encourages larger parties to visit and discover all that Ireland has to offer. We are particularly excited to be able to offer great rates for groups wishing to take over an Aer Arann plane on a scheduled flight.”

For your next group travel event contact Aer Arann Group Travel by telephone or by email to receive a great value quote.

Tel: +353 91 541926
Email: groupbookings@aerarann.com

• Waterford – London breaks 9,000 per month for the first time
• Waterford accounts for 10% of total Aer Arann traffic

The Waterford-London Luton route carried 9,106 passengers in August 2007 – the first time any cross-channel route from Waterford has passed the 9,000 passengers per month mark.

Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, announced: “We are delighted that Aer Arann’s Waterford-London Luton route is our first route to break the 9,000 passengers per month target. Our business on this route is 30% ahead of August 2006.

Lewis continued: “This news is a great follow up to last month’s announcement that August 2007 has been the busiest ever for Aer Arann since the airline began operating commercial flights from Waterford Airport in 2003. Our decision last May to open up a base, creating up to 45 new jobs, to cater for the increased activity at Waterford has been truly vindicated. The people of the South-East have really responded – Aer Arann’s passenger numbers out of Waterford Airport are up a whopping 36% year to date 2007, compared to 2006.

Graham Doyle, Chief Executive of Waterford Airport, said: “I’m delighted that Aer Arann Waterford-London Luton now carries over 9,000 passengers. The increased frequency and better timings on this route has given greater flexibility to the people in the southeast. Additionally, it’s a great reflection of the number of UK tourists choosing to make the region their first choice holiday destination” he added. “I’m confident that it won’t be long before we hit the 10,000 mark”.

30th August - Escape GAA GAA madness!!!!

Aer Arann are offering a Fantastic €40 return fare to Kerry the day of the All Ireland Football final Sunday 16th September 2007. Tour the Ring of Kerry with excellent car hire rates available from our partners Avis or enjoy strolling around Killarney or Tralee both just 15 Mins from Kerry Airport. Click here to book online now>>

28th August - Aer Arann, the world’s fastest growing regional airline, announced today that it has carried its 250,000 th passenger on its Edinburgh routes in 5 years of services at the Scottish capital’s airport.

One lucky passenger, Laura Hughes of Lasswade Edinburgh, was presented with a bottle of champagne and two free return flights for use on any Aer Arann routes from Edinburgh to celebrate being the 250,000 th passenger to travel on the Edinburgh service. It is Laura’s first trip with Aer Arann travelling to a friends wedding in Cork.

Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing Aer Arann said: “Five years at Edinburgh is a significant milestone and carrying our 250,000 th passenger is yet another great achievement for the airline. We now have a loyal passenger base in Scotland since we began our Edinburgh operation in 2002 and the success of our Cork and Galway routes further strengthens our commitment to connecting Scotland to the regions of Ireland.”

David Johnston, Managing Director of Edinburgh Airport said, "Aer Arann has been one of the great success stories at Edinburgh Airport over the last few years. The fact that their two routes to Galway and Cork have carried 250,000 passengers in just 5 years shows the popularity of both the airline and the two services."

Fares to Cork and Galway from Edinburgh start from £34 including tax. For more information please visit www.aerarann.com, or contact reservations on 0800 587 23 24.

 For further information, please contact:

Catriona Lonie, Rooster
Tel: 020 7953 8774
Fax: 020 7953 8780
Email: catriona.lonie@rooster.co.uk

24th August - Aer Arann today announced the introduction of online check-in on its Cork routes. Cork to Belfast, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Southampton, and Bristol will benefit from online check-in. Online-check is also available on the Cork Dublin route where it was implemented in March.

Passengers can now save time by checking in from the comfort of their own homes or offices before leaving for the airport, ensuring a seamless, stress-free travelling experience.

Online check-in opens 72 hours prior to and closes 3 hours before departure. Customers using the service can assign their seat on board the aircraft and print their boarding card in advance, avoiding check-in queues at the airport.
Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said “As part of our ongoing customer service programme we are continually striving to enhance the Aer Arann customer experience. Online check-in offers time savings and convenience to customers and we are delighted to be offering our customers in Cork this service”

 For further information, please contact:

Joanna Petty on (01) 6391460 or joanna@marketmatch.ie

17th August - Aer Arann operates a fleet of 14 ATR42 and ATR72 aircraft, maintained to meet stringent safety and quality requirements, by a team of fully qualified and skilled Mechanics and Engineers.

We offer exciting opportunities to those interested in embarking upon a career in the fast-paced aircraft maintenance industry. If you have an interest and some proven ability in mathematics and physics, and also meet the minimum requirements as listed below, we encourage you to apply for our Aircraft Mechanic Apprenticeship Scheme based at Galway Airport. You may also be asked to work at other Aer Arann bases at Cork, Dublin and Waterford from time to time.

To apply you must:

• Be aged 18 years or over
• Be educated to Leaving Certificate level or equivalent
• Have the right to live and work in the Republic of Ireland
• Have good eye sight* and hearing (all applicants will need to pass a full pre-employment medical)
• Have problem solving skills
• Be methodical and practical

Apprenticeship work will be indoors (in an aircraft hangar environment) and outdoors (at the airport), at heights and in enclosed spaces.

This apprenticeship scheme will be run in conjunction with FÁS and will follow the course outline and also all Terms and Conditions as laid out in the FÁS apprenticeships scheme.

Apply online for this new apprenticeship scheme attaching your Curriculum Vitae>>

09th August - This week has been the busiest ever for Aer Arann since the airline began operating commercial flights from Dublin Airport in 1998. The airline carried nearly 30,000 passengers this week which is similar to the entire population of Swords taking to the skies for a week!

Passenger traffic through Dublin, Cork, and Galway accounted for 75% of overall traffic, with Dublin alone accounting for 30% of overall traffic. Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, announced: “We are delighted that Aer Arann passenger figures reached an all time high this week. We’ve exceeded all our expectations and will have carried 30,000 passengers this week alone.”

07th August - On Saturday 11 th August, the first Aer Arann chartered flight from Dublin to Newcastle will take to the skies. Passengers on board will travel for the Premiership match between Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspurs which will take place on Saturday afternoon. Sky Sports will be filming on board this inaugural flight which is in conjunction with Sunderland Travel. Sunderland Travel has booked charters with Aer Arann for all of Sunderland’s home games for the premiership season.

Commenting on the first of the charter flights, Fergal Barry, Commercial Director for Aer Arann, said: “Aer Arann is delighted to continue their involvement with Sunderland Football Club and to be flying the supporters to the first of many games in the premiership for Sunderland. There’s a marvellous feeling of goodwill between Sunderland and the Irish public and Aer Arann is dedicated to providing this service in order to support the growing number of Sunderland fans". 

Paul Sweeney of Sunderland Travel also commented: “For the first time, Irish Sunderland fans will be able to avail of a dedicated charter service going to all Sunderland’s home games. As a new and exciting Premiership season begins, we are delighted to be working exclusively with Aer Arann on this service.”

* Please note you must have flash player installed to view this movie

27th July - Aer Arann, Sunderland AFC’s pre season tour of Ireland, sponsord by Aer Arann kicks off today.

Aer Arann are flying Sunderland AFC to play three friendly fixtures as part of the team’s pre-season preparations this summer.

The games will take place as follows:

• Saturday July 28th 2007, Bohemians FC v. Sunderland AFC, 7:45pm kick off
• Monday July 30th 2007, Cork City FC v. Sunderland AFC, 7:45pm kick off
• Wednesday August 1st 2007, Galway United FC v. Sunderland AFC, 8:00pm kick off

SAFC Chairman Niall Quinn said: “We are very honoured to bring Sunderland on this summer tour of Ireland, courtesy of Aer Arann. There’s a marvellous feeling of goodwill between Sunderland and the Irish public and this trip will complement the progress at the Club since Drumaville’s takeover last summer.

“We’re sure the tour will be fantastic for the Club and its supporters and there has already been tremendous amount of interest from Sunderland fans wishing to make the journey to Ireland with us.”

This is the first major soccer sponsorship deal for Aer Arann in the UK, which operates over 600 flights per week across 39 routes in Ireland, the UK and France.

Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “We are delighted to be coming on board as official sponsor of Sunderland's pre season tour of Ireland. There are obvious Irish connections with Sunderland and we certainly welcome the opportunity to work with them as we grow our routes in the UK market. We know this tour of Ireland is going to be very successful and the announcement comes at a time when we all wish Sunderland the best in their charge towards the premiership".

Aer Arann has recently launched flights from Galway to Newcastle which started 25th June 2007.

18th July 2007- Aer Arann is now the largest operator at Dublin Airport, outside of the ‘big two’. Colin Lewis,   Head of Sales & Marketing, Aer Arann announced ‘We are delighted that Aer Arann is now bigger than Air France, SAS, BA, Cityjet, Lufthansa, Delta, Iberia and Continental at Dublin Airport – we are now the third largest operator”

More than 1.8 million passengers travelled through Dublin Airport during the month of April 2007, a 9% increase over the same period last year, according to figures released by the Dublin Airport Authority. Aer Arann carried 47,298 customers in April, overtaking BMI in that month, and up 24% over April last year. Year to date, Aer Arann has carried 174,155 customers, also 24% up on same period last year.
Lewis continued, “This is a great achievement, when you consider that Dublin is the 17th busiest international airport in the world, and we compete in a market with some of the most aggressive carriers. Further growth is forecast – in recent weeks, we reported record passenger carrying figures with over 26,000 passengers across our network in the Ireland, France and the UK during the last week of June.”
Domestic air travel in Ireland has been a huge area of growth. Siobhan Moore, Communications Manager for the Dublin Airport Authority, said: “Business travellers in particular have turned away from using their car and instead have opted for the skies as the easier and most stress-free option for getting around Ireland in comfort. Ireland is experiencing a period of financial prosperity in which people are time-poor and this has been a factor in the expansion of our home routes.”

52% of Aer Arann’s domestic passengers cited business as the purpose of their journey according to figures released by the Dublin Airport Authority.

Over one million customers have travelled with Aer Arann across their 40 routes to 25 great destinations across Ireland, France and the UK. Join them by visiting www.aerarann.com or call their reservations team on 0818 210 210

For further information or high-resolution image, please contact:
Audrey Cunningham on (01) 6391460 or a.cunningham@marketmatch.ie

2nd July 2007- Following Saturday's terrorist incident at Glasgow Airport, additional security measures are in place at all UK airports. 

Airports are operating at a heightened level of security and is important that people follow the directions of Police and airport officials. Dropping off and picking-up in front of all airports is severely restricted and passengers are warned that there may be significant delays in reaching airport terminals by car. 
Please allow plenty of time for your journey as you may be delayed by these measures.

Following the closure of the set-down roads at the front of the terminal buildings,  Birmingham International Airport (BIA) advises that people should use the short-stay car park for dropping off, or alternatively they should park in one of the main car parks.
It is still unclear what the situation is at Glasgow Airport; however as a precautionary measure, the Police have closed the roads at the front of BIA’s terminal until further notice.
 
The Airport continues to operate at a heightened level of security and is important that people follow the directions of Police and airport officials, and that they do not  cause congestion by blocking bus stops and other access roads.

Passengers arriving at Bristol International Airport should be aware that the area in front of the terminal building is currently closed to vehicles (with the exception of the airport's own car park buses and the Flyer express coach service).  Please use the rapid pick up car park if you are dropping off passengers at the airport. Passenger's wishing to park at the airport should be aware that all on-site car parks are open and available to use as normal.

As always, we ask passengers to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to airport security staff or the police.

If you are driving to Cardiff International Airport, you will find that there are enhanced security measures on the approach roads. Please allow plenty of time for your journey as you may be delayed by these measures. Security personnel will direct your vehicle when you arrive.

It is not possible to drive to the front of the terminal building. If you are picking up or dropping off passengers, you must go to the short term car park which is just a short walk from the terminal. The first 20 minutes of your stay in the car park will be free. Please do not pick up/drop off on approach roads as this may create traffic congestion and will also mean a longer walk for your passengers.

Edinburgh Airport – 2nd July 2007

Following Saturday's terrorist incident at Glasgow Airport, the Edinburgh Airport forecourt is closed to all private vehicles. BAA strongly recommends that passengers use public transport to get to the airport. Passengers using private cars will find it more convenient to use car parks to gain access to airport terminals.

Inverness Airport – 2nd July 2007

Flights are arriving and departing as scheduled.

Isle of Man Airport – 2nd July 2007

Flights are arriving and departing as scheduled.

Leeds Bradford International Airport - 2nd July 2007

Passengers arriving at Leeds Bradford International Airport should be aware that the area in front of the terminal building is currently closed to vehicles. Please use the car parks provided if you are dropping off passengers at the airport.

Passengers should continue with travel plans as intended and allow additional time to pass through the Airport. We ask passengers to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to airport security staff or the police.

Luton Airport – 1st July 2007

Passengers travelling from London Luton Airport are advised to check in as normal.Flights are arriving and departing as scheduled.

Manchester Airport - 1st July 2007

Manchester Airport is operating with additional security measures following advice from the Home Office.

Parking restrictions are currently in place outside all terminal buildings. Customers wishing to pick up or drop off passengers will be redirected to the car parks.

We are advising all passengers to arrive at the airport at least 20 minutes earlier for their flight and to bear with us through these extra security measures. Manchester Airport already has strict procedures for passenger pick up.

Passengers are reminded that security restrictions remain in place with regard to cabin baggage, and to make sure they have no liquids over 100ml in their hand baggage.

Newcastle International Airport – 2nd July 2007

Statement issued in conjunction with Northumbria Police:

Northumbria  Police are intent on maintaining public safety in light of the recent events in London and Glasgow.  Although there is no specific intelligence to suggest the region is a particular target, a number of options have been developed in response to these events and are currently being utilised.

Additional resources have been deployed throughout the force area and will continue to be over the coming days.  As always we will respond appropriately as intelligence is made available. The public can be reassured that we have sufficient specialist officers on duty to ensure public safety.
Newcastle International Airport continues to operate normally.  All car parking facilities remain.  Passengers are advised to turn up a little earlier for their flight as as result of the additional security measures.

Prestwick Airport – 2nd July 2007

Flights are arriving and departing as scheduled.

Southampton Airport – 2nd July 2007

Flights are arriving and departing as scheduled.

25 th June 2007, Aer Arann and Galway Airport today announced the creation of 30 new jobs as result of a major expansion at the airport. A new purpose built hangar has been built at Galway airport which will house a new engineering base for Aer Arann.

New hangar andEngineering base
Aer Arann will carry out most of its maintenance requirements at the new hangar. The airline has seen significant growth at Galway airport in the past few years and currently operates ten routes from Galway including Dublin , Cork, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, London Luton, Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle and Lorient.

Comment
Commenting on the new jobs Garry Cullen Managing Director Aer Arann, said “Today’s announcement of new jobs with the introduction of our new engineering base demonstrates Aer Arann’s commitment to further developing our relationship and network of routes from Galway airport. We have received huge support from the board of Galway airport, Joe Walsh and the team over the past few years and we are delighted with this new hangar facility which will compliment our maintenance work.”

Joe Walsh, General Manager of Galway Airport, said: “I’m thrilled with the construction of this hangar facility, the first major construction project at the airport for 2 years, carried out by Galway construction company, James Stewart Ltd. This is phase one of a major investment programme by Galway Airport costing €12m over the next 3 years in conjunction with Transport 21 Programme. We are delighted that Aer Arann will base their engineering facility here in Galway airport which we hope will facility fur ther route expansion from the airport.”

The new service will operate four days a week departing Galway at 6.30pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday and 7.15pm on Sunday. The return flight will depart Newcastle at 8.25pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday and 9.10pm on Sunday with a flight time of one hour and twenty five minutes. The service will be operated by a 66 seater ATR72 aircraft and fares will start from €45 one way including taxes.

Micheal O Callarain, Marketing Manager of Aer Arann was present at the launch. Commenting on the announcement, he said; “We are delighted to be expanding our UK network adding a new service from Newcastle to Galway. Newcastle is a fantastic city in the north of England – rich in the arts, architecture and history with a great reputation for shopping, a thriving nightlife, great cuisine and a world-class programme of festivals and events. And for soccer followers there are Newcastle and recently promoted Sunderland to cheer on in the premiership. We believe it will prove to be a popular destination with visitors from the west.”

Galway Airport Marketing Manager Michael Moloney said “I am delighted with the announcement by Aer Arann that they are to further increase the number of routes at Galway. Galway Airport has become a significant contributor to the local economy and the addition of Newcastle and more recently Bristol to the airports network of city to city destination will further benefit both business and tourism interests. I wish to congratulate the team at Aer Arann on their commitment to Galway Airport and look forward to working with the airline to promote these new routes and further developing existing ones.”

Garry Cullen, Managing Director stated “Aer Arann is committed to the principles of energy efficiency. Whilst the contribution of the aviation industry towards global warming is significantly less than other large polluters, our new ATR aircraft are recognised as the most fuel efficient aircraft in their category, emitting 20% less CO2 per passenger-km than newer jets. The ATR operates more efficiently than jet aircraft on short-haul routes – up to 70% less fuel is required than a 737 on a typical Aer Arann sector. On a 370km sector, the ATR 72 – 500 fuel consumption per passenger is up to 15% lower than a typical European car. The associated ATR gaseous emissions per pax in terms of CO are 15 times less than a car and comparable to a train”

“External noise and gaseous emissions regulatory levels are all met too with ample margin.” Cullen continued “In fact we are quiet neighbours and by flying at a relatively low altitude, we also leave the ozone layer unaffected. On a global level, ATR and its partners are heavily involved in a joint technology initiative for an aeronautics and air transport framework called ‘The Clean Sky Project’ which aims to conceive and validate technologies for a future generation ‘green regional’ aircraft”.

Turboprops v Turbojets

Cullen finished by stating that “Aer Arann are delighted and proud to launch the first of our ten new ATR today”
ATR turboprops - Good neighbours for the environment

To celebrate the arrival of the new Aer Arann ATR 72-500 aircraft, a special one off colour scheme was commissioned by Aer Arann. Inspired by Celtic rings, or triskels, from the ancient monuments at Newgrange in County Meath. Clusters of triskels signify pulses to communicate the human and personal touch. The colour scheme incorporates refreshed and updated corporate colours. Silver and gold have been added into the palette to bring in a celebratory theme giving the aircraft a really distinctive look.

Garry Cullen , Managing Director, Aer Arann said: “Our new ATR 72-500 aircraft is a symbol of how far we have come as an organisation. The new one-off design reflects both who we are and where we are going, by reinterpreting the traditional patterns and given them a modern and playful twist”.

Cullen , continues: “To satisfy our most demanding customer expectations, our new fleet has a comfortable and spacious cabin where silence and comfort are similar to jets. Even if it’s just a short trip, Aer Arann knows that customers have come to expect the same level of space and seating comfort they would receive in a larger aircraft. Not only has the new aircraft been restyled with leather seating, there’s more leg-room, larger overhead bins, more windows than rows of seats and wider aisles. We already have a reputation for great customer service – in fact – 95% of our customers tells us that they would recommend us to someone else. Our new fleet will enhance our customer’s view of Aer Arann”.

ATR 72-500 aircraft

The ATR 72 500 fuel consumption per passenger is up to 15% lower than a typical European car on a 200mile sector. Gaseous emissions per passenger on the turboprop in terms of carbon monoxide are 15 times less than a car. Nitrous oxides emitted by the aircraft per passenger is 40% less than that of a train. To put it in local context, the new ATR 72 500 will use less fuel on the Dublin to Cork route than a jet aircraft will use taxiing for take-off.

On a global level, ATR and its partners are heavily involved in a joint technology initiative for an aeronautics and air transport framework called ‘The Clean Sky Project’ which aims to conceive and validate technologies for a future generation ‘green regional’ aircraft. This is in addition to ATR, and subsequently Aer Arann, being part of the larger objective of supporting the implementation of the Kyoto Protocols in Europe by reducing all emissions by 8% by 2010. (It’s worth noting that global aviation contributes 2.5% to global emissions).

However, bearing all that in mind, the eco-conscious passenger is also a seeker of comfort. Even if it’s just a short trip, passengers have come to expect the same level of space and seating comfort they would receive in a jet aircraft. Not only has the new aircraft been restyled with leather seating, there’s more leg-room, larger overhead bins, more windows than rows of seats and wider aisles, all contributing to what promises to be a more pleasurable in-flight experience.

New Design
To coincide with the arrival of the new aircraft, a special one off colour scheme 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. Clusters of triskels signify pulses to communicate the human and personal touch. The colour scheme incorporates refreshed and updated corporate colours. Silver and gold have been added into the palette to bring in a celebratory theme giving the aircraft a really distinctive look

Developments
Before the end of June this year, Aer Arann will also have launched 6 additional routes between Ireland, UK and France, moved to a new Headquarters in Dublin and opened a new hangar in Galway Airport, the birthplace of the airline.. Aer Arann are committed to continuing what they regard as essential flight experience advantages, such as later check-in times, no extra baggage charges and free newspapers.

The company’s excellence in customer service was recognised in 2006 by receiving the Palme D’Or European regional airline award for sustained excellence, reinforcing the airline’s belief that providing a progressive airline service doesn’t have to compromise the human touch.

14 th May 2007 , Aer Arann, today commenced service on a new international route from Galway Airport to Bristol. This will bring the total number of Aer Arann routes from Galway to ten adding to existing services to Dublin, Cork, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, London Luton, Manchester and Lorient and the soon to be introduced Newcastle service.

Schedule
The Galway to Bristol route will operate four days a week and will depart Galway at 10.25am on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 1.50pm on Sunday. The return flight will depart Bristol at 12.20pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 11.55am on Sunday with a flight time of one hour and thirty minutes. The service will be operated by a 70 seater ATR72 aircraft and fares will start from €39 one way including tax.

Comment
Commenting at the launch of the new route, Micheal O Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said; “The launch of the new Galway to Bristol route represents significant expansion for Aer Arann from Galway, bringing us to seven UK routes from Galway Airport. Bristol is a thriving, cosmopolitan UK city and offers even more choice to business and leisure passengers in Galway. We are delighted to be starting this service as it will considerably improve access between the West of Ireland and the South West of the UK and help to foster both business and tourism links.”

Galway Airport Manager Joe Walsh said “I’m delighted with launch of this new route by Aer Arann. Galway Airport has become a significant contributor to the local economy and the addition of this route to the airport’s network will further benefit both business and tourism interests. I wish to congratulate the team at Aer Arann on their commitment to Galway Airport and look forward to working with the airline to promote this new route and further developing existing ones.”

Comment
Commenting on the announcement, Garry Cullen, Chief executive, Aer Arann said: “We are delighted to be launching our first UK service from Sligo. Manchester is the largest city in the northwest of England, synonymous with football; it is also one of the UK’s most vibrant cities for arts, shopping and entertainment. We believe it will prove to be a very popular destination for passengers from the Northwest region. We look forward to working with the team at Sligo Airport to develop the service over the coming months.”

Albert Higgins, Chairman, Sligo Airport said: “I am delighted with today’s launch of the Manchester service, which marks a very important milestone in the development of Sligo Airport.”
Ray McSharry former Minister and European Commissioner also welcomed the route "Today is great day for Aer Arann and Sligo airport for their success in achieving this new route to Manchester. This clearly shows that Sligo Airport has the potential to expand its services throughout the UK and we wish both Aer Arann and Sligo Airport every success. Hopefully this new route will be the first of many new destinations from Sligo Airport. Sligo Airport has a key role to play in the strategic development of tourism in Sligo and the North West. This new route will assist the regional spread of tourism throughout the country by allowing for easier and better access to the Sligo region. Modern tourism is about convenient access. Many people decide at the last minute to take a break and therefore the first mode of transport they look for is a convenient air service. This is why we must ensure we have further expansion of routes such as this Aer Arann route to Manchester".

Schedule
The new service from Waterford to Birmingham will operate daily excluding Saturday departing Waterford at 11.30am and Birmingham at 1.20pm with a flight time of one hour and twenty minutes. Fares on the route will start from €39 one way including tax. Aer Arann also announced that it will increase its frequency on the London Luton route to three flights per day on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 25th June to 2nd September 2007 to cater for the busy summer period. The Waterford to Manchester service will increase from four to six days per week effective today (14th May 2007).

Comment
Commenting on the announcement, Padraic O’Ceidigh, Executive Chairman Aer Arann said: “Today’s launch demonstrates our commitment to further developing Aer Arann’s network of routes from Waterford Airport. We have received huge support from passengers in the South East since we began operating from Waterford in June 2003 and are delighted to be adding our fourth route as well as increasing frequency and improving business timings on our current services. Birmingham is one of the UK’s largest cities offering superb shopping, top attractions, nightlife and sporting events and access to some of England’s most beautiful countryside. We believe it will prove to be a very popular destination for visitors from the southeast and we look forward to working with the team at Waterford Airport to develop the service.”

Graham Doyle, Chief Executive of Waterford Airport, said “I’m thrilled with the Birmingham launch and the improved frequencies and timings on existing routes. Birmingham is a great destination for shoppers and sports fans and is a very welcome addition to the route network from Waterford. The additional Manchester services and the reintroduction of Lorient will also offer greater choice and convenience to passengers within the Southeast. In addition, business people in the city and region have long hoped for the ability to get through a day’s work in London and return the same day and I expect that the new 7.30 departure will be a huge success. I’m delighted that Aer Arann has chosen Waterford for these services and I wish them every success.”

New Base
To cater for the increased activity at Waterford, Aer Arann has now opened a base with the creation of up to 45 new jobs. This will be the fourth base Aer Arann has in Ireland adding to those in Dublin, Cork and Galway.

Comment
Commenting on the new base Padraic O’Ceidigh, Executive Chairman Aer Arann, said: “Today’s inaugural flight to Birmingham and the development of our new base here demonstrates Aer Arann’s commitment to further developing our network of routes from Waterford Airport. We have received huge support from Nicki Fewer and the team here in Waterford airport since our first flight in June 2003 and we are delighted to be adding a new base and a new route as well as increasing frequency and improving business timings on our current services.”

Graham Doyle, Chief Executive of Waterford Airport, said: “I’m thrilled that Aer Arann is basing an aircraft in Waterford. This allows a new route, increased frequency and better timings on our existing routes which offer great flexibility to the people in the south east. I’m delighted that Aer Arann has chosen Waterford for these services and I wish them every success.”

The Waterford to Birmingham service will operate daily excluding Saturday, while the other three services will operate four days per week and fares will start from €39 one way including tax. This will bring the total number of Aer Arann routes between Ireland and the UK to 23. The airline also recently announced that it will operate seven routes to France during summer 2007 including four services from Lorient to Waterford, Galway, Cork and Kerry and three services from Nantes to Cork, Bristol and Cardiff.

Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “Today’s announcement represents further significant expansion for Aer Arann in the UK market and will provide easy access to these major UK cities and greater choice for business and leisure passengers in the regions. We look forward to working with the regional airports to develop these services.”

Sunderland AFC has confirmed that the Club will travel to Ireland to play three friendly fixtures as part of the team’s pre-season preparations this summer.

The tour, being sponsored by Aer Arann who will be flying the team from Newcastle and throughout their tour in Ireland, will see Roy Keane’s side take on Bohemians, Cork City and Galway United in a week-long visit

The games will take place as follows:

SAFC Chairman Niall Quinn said: “We are very honoured to bring Sunderland on this summer tour of Ireland, courtesy of Aer Arann. There’s a marvellous feeling of goodwill between Sunderland and the Irish public and this trip will complement the progress at the Club since Drumaville’s takeover last summer.

“We’re sure the tour will be fantastic for the Club and its supporters and there has already been tremendous amount of interest from Sunderland fans wishing to make the journey to Ireland with us.”

This is the first major soccer sponsorship deal for Aer Arann in the UK, which operates over 600 flights per week across 39 routes in Ireland, the UK and France.

Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “We are delighted to be coming on board as official sponsor of Sunderland's pre season tour of Ireland. There are obvious Irish connections with Sunderland and we certainly welcome the opportunity to work with them as we grow our routes in the UK market. We know this tour of Ireland is going to be very successful and the announcement comes at a time when we all wish Sunderland the best in their charge towards the premiership".
Aer Arann has recently announced flights from Galway to Newcastle starting on the 25th June 2007.

Aer Arann is keeping the record straight in response to Ryanair’s advertising campaign on the Dublin-Cork route. Says Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing for Aer Arann: ‘We think its right to keep the Irish travelling public informed’.

‘First of all, thanks to Ryanair for using Aer Arann's name on their advertising. This helps spread awareness of our brand, and we are delighted for their help in extending our ‘Seven Wonders’ marketing campaign’.

Secondly, comparing Aer Arann and Ryanair is like comparing apples and oranges, it’s a completely different customer experience. With fares from €25 one way, Aer Arann is offering the best customer experience on the route - with no baggage charges, assigned seating, online check-in, flexible tickets on day of travel, stress-free boarding and check in 30 minutes before flight. Our research has shown that these are very important elements to both the leisure and corporate customer, though Ryanair may disregard them.

Thirdly, Aer Arann operate 40% more flights than Ryanair every weekday between Dublin and Cork- almost 1200 more flights per year, so our commitment is unquestionable. All airlines have cancellations due to weather. The majority of our cancellations on the route in the last year were due to weather. Almost half were in one month - December 2006 - the same month when Ryanair cancelled dozens of flights across the UK and Ireland.

Fourthly, we believe that Ryanair should come clean on their pricing and answer the question: what’s the real cost the passenger will pay?

A passenger with 17kgs of baggage, flying return between Dublin and Cork, who uses online check-in will pay €50 on top of the Ryanair base fare.

With Aer Arann – ZERO! 

Fifthly, we welcome competition, but with 14,000 customers a month choosing to fly Dublin-Cork with Aer Arann, clearly 14,000 people recognise value-for-money when they see it, over Ryanair stealth pricing.

Finally, next month Aer Arann takes delivery of the first of 10 new 72 seater ATR72-500 series aircraft. 50% of these aircraft will be in our fleet in the next 12 months. The deal, which is worth over €150 million, is the single largest aircraft investment by a private Irish passenger airline and the third largest in Irish aviation history. The first aircraft is scheduled to operate on the Dublin-Cork route.’

Aer Arann launches additional services from Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Manchester and Newcastle.

Aer Arann, one of Europe’s fastest growing regional airlines, is launching a daily service from Birmingham to Waterford, South East of Ireland, on 14 May 2007.

The new flight will operate every day except Saturdays, and with a flight time of just one hour and twenty minutes, should prove popular with those planning business trips and leisure getaways to the West Coast. Fares start from £30 one way including taxes.

Also, launching on the 14 May is a service from Manchester to Sligo operating four days per week with fares from £30 one way including tax.

Both the Birmingham–Waterford and Manchester-Sligo services will come just two weeks after Aer Arann begins operating a twice-weekly Bristol to Nantes flight on 28 April. The airline also has plans to begin a Bristol to Galway service from 25 June operating four days a week.

Prices will start from £49 to Nantes, and £30 to Galway, including taxes.

Aer Arann will also launch a Newcastle to Galway service on the same day. The flight will operate four days per week with a flying time of one hour and twenty-five minutes. Fares on the route will start from £30 one way including tax.

The airline is also launching a Cardiff to Nantes service from 23 June, which will operate every Saturday with a flying time of less than three hours and prices from as little as £49 each way, including tax.

Commenting on the new services, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann says: “We are delighted to be further expanding our UK network with new services from Birmingham to Waterford, Bristol to Galway and Nantes, Cardiff to Nantes, Newcastle to Galway and Manchester to Sligo. All of these new destinations will prove popular with leisure travellers from the UK, Ireland and France, looking for new short-breaks ideas and summer getaways.

“We are particularly pleased to be announcing connections to Nantes, which is the sixth largest city in France and will play host to two of the Rugby World Cup matches being played by Wales in September 2007.”

The new service will operate four days per week on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday departing Sligo at 10.45am on Monday and Friday, 5.40pm on Thursday and 1.00pm on Sunday. The return flight will depart Manchester at 8.50am on Monday and Friday, 3.35pm on Thursday and 11.05pm on Sunday with a flight time of just eighty minutes. Fares on the route start from as low as €39 one way including tax.

Commenting on the service, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said; “We are delighted with the feedback we have been receiving on the service, forward bookings are strong and we believe it will prove very popular with passengers in the Northwest region. Manchester is the largest city in the northwest of England, synonymous with football, but also great for shopping, art and entertainment. So, whether its to see Manchester United, avail of some retail therapy or attend a business meeting, getting to Manchester from Sligo has never been easier and with round trip fares from as low as €78 return including tax, it represents excellent value too.”

Ray McSharry, Chairman of Failte Ireland North West also welcomed the route "I want to congratulate Sligo Airport Authority for their success in achieving this new route to Manchester and to thank Aer Arann for operating the service. This clearly shows that Sligo Airport has the potential to expand it's services throughout the UK and we wish both Aer Arann and Sligo Airport every success. Hopefully this new route will be the first of many new destinations from Sligo Airport. Sligo Airport has a key role to play in the strategic development of tourism in Sligo and the North West. This new route will assist the regional spread of tourism throughout the country by allowing for easier and better access to the Sligo region. Modern tourism is about convenient access. Many people decide at the last minute to take a break and therefore the first mode of transport they look for is a convenient air service. This is why we must ensure we have further expansion of routes such as this Aer Arann route to Manchester".

Online check-in opens 72 hours prior to and closes 3 hours before departure. Customers using the service can assign their seat on board the aircraft and print their boarding card in advance, thus avoiding check-in queues at the airport. A valid photo ID must be presented at the airport. Online check-in is initially only available on the Dublin-Cork route, but will be available network wide in the coming months.

Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said “As part of our ongoing customer service programme we are continually striving to enhance the Aer Arann customer experience. Online check-in offers time savings and convenience to customers and we are delighted to be introducing it on the Dublin-Cork route. We look forward to extending this service across our network in the coming weeks.”

12 th December 2006 , Aer Arann , Ireland 's premier regional airline, today announced that it is adding four new UK routes to its network for summer 2007 effective from 14 th May.

The new routes include services from Waterford to Birmingham , Sligo to Manchester, as well as Galway to Newcastle and Bristol. The Waterford to Birmingham service will operate daily excluding Saturday, while the other three services will operate four days per week. This will bring the total number of Aer Arann routes between Ireland and the UK to 24. The airline also recently announced that it will operate seven routes to France during summer 2007 including four services from Lorient to Waterford , Galway , Cork and Kerry and three services from Nantes to Cork , Bristol and Cardiff .

Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said; “Today's announcement represents further significant expansion for Aer Arann in the UK market and will provide easy access to these major UK cities and greater choice for business and leisure passengers in the regions. We look forward to working with the regional airports to develop these services.”

The Lorient to Cork, Galway and Waterford services will operate weekly on Saturdays effective from 12th May 2007, while the Lorient to Kerry service will begin on 23rd June 2007. The Nantes to Cork and Bristol services will begin on 19th May 2007, but will operate twice per week on Tuesdays and Saturday, while the Nantes to Cardiff service will operate on Saturdays affective from 23rd June 2007. All services will be operated by an ATR72 66 seater aircraft until September 2007.

Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said; “The strong passenger demand experienced on our French routes during summer 2006 is indicative of the popularity of Brittany as a holiday destination for Irish and UK passengers and as such we are delighted to be increasing our network of French routes for next year. Nantes and Lorient are central to popular tourist areas such as the Atlantic Coast, Brittany, Anjou and the Vendée and as such make ideal touring bases for holiday makers who want to visit this region of France.”

Regulation (EC) No 1546/2006

Following the threat from liquid explosives that was uncovered in the UK in August, a new European Regulation on Aviation Security comes into effect on 6th November.

Only small quantities of liquids and gels may be brought through passenger screening points at all European Community Airports.

How does it affect me?
You are only allowed to take small quantities of liquids in your hand luggage. These liquids must be in individual containers with a maximum capacity of 100 millilitres each. Containers must be packed in one transparent, re-sealable plastic bag of not more than one litre capacity per passenger.

At security in the airport:

”We are delighted to welcome Aer Arann on board for the new season. We have
watched this progressive Galway company grow over the years to become a
major player in the aviation industry, very much what we are trying to do in a rugby context,” said Connacht Rugby CEO Gerry Kelly. “This is an important season for Connacht Rugby and it is heartening that such quality top-line companies have come on board to support us.” he added.

This is the first major rugby sponsorship deal for Aer Arann, which operates
over 600 flights per week across 39 routes in Ireland, the UK and France. Commenting on the announcement Garry Cullen, Managing Director, Aer Arann said: “We are delighted to be coming on board as official sponsor of Connacht Rugby. We have experienced huge growth from the West of Ireland in the past few years operating services from Galway, Knock and Sligo airports and we continue to look for new opportunities for development from these airports which form a key part of our overall route network.”

“We very much welcome the opportunity to get involved in the local community and it is a particular honour to sponsor such a progressive team from our home province. We look forward to working with Connacht Rugby throughout the season and wish them every success,” he said.

Aer Arann will join main sponsors Bank of Ireland, who recently announced a new two-year extension to their sponsorship, and associate sponsors Day¹s Hotel, as the primary backers of Connacht Rugby for the new season. The logos of all three companies will appear on the Connacht playing shirt with Bank of Ireland on the front, Day’s Hotel on the right sleeve and Aer Arann on the back.

Connacht will open their Magners League campaign away to Borders on September 3 and will then have seven home matches on the trot, including their opening game of the European Challenge Cup against Harlequins. The first of the home games in the Magners League will take place on Friday, September 8th, against Neath-Swansea Ospreys and in the following weeks Llanelli Scarlets, Edinburgh Gunners, Leinster, Ulster, and Newport Gwent Dragons will visit the Sportsground. Connacht will open their European Challenge Cup campaign when they entertain NEC Harlequins at the Sportsground on Friday, October 20th. Season tickets are on sale on www.connachtrugby.ie and at the Connacht Branch headquarters at the Sportsground, College Road, Galway. Commercial Manager, Fiona Keys, says that season ticket sales have been very encouraging. “The season tickets are good value and with so many games at home in the early part of the season, supporters have been availing of the opportunity to get behind the side from the start,” she said.

The Cork to Galway service will operate five days per week from Tuesday to Friday and Sunday with an afternoon departure from Galway and evening departure from Cork. The new service will enable a day return trip for business passengers by connecting through Dublin in the morning and availing of the direct return service in the afternoon.

The Cork to Leeds Bradford services will operate four days per week departing Cork at 2.20pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday 11.00am on Sunday with a flight time of one hour thirty minutes. The return service will depart Leeds Bradford at 12.20pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 1.00pm on Sunday. The Galway to Leeds Bradford service will also operate four days per week departing Galway at 10.30pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 1.00pm on Sunday with a flight time of one hour twenty minutes. The return service will depart Leeds Bradford at 4.30pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 2.50pm on Sunday.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “These new routes represent further significant expansion for Aer Arann and will form part of our winter schedule. Over the last ten years, Leeds has transformed itself from a northern industrial city to one of the most vibrant and successful cities in the UK, with thriving finance, business service and retail sectors and we are delighted to be launching two new services to the city.”

He added “Our new internal flight between Cork and Galway comes as a result of strong demand from the business communities in both regions. It will enable passengers to complete same day return travel in each direction which we believe will be popular with commuters.”

The service which will operate four days per week will depart London Luton at 7.15am on Monday, Thursday and Friday and 10.15am on Sunday with a flight time of one hour and twenty five minutes. It will depart Newquay at 9.10am on Monday, Thursday and Friday and 3.30pm on Sunday. The service will be operated by 66 seater ATR72 aircraft. Fares on the route will start from £29.99 one way including tax.

This is Aer Arann’s second route from Newquay adding to existing services from Newquay to Cork in south west Ireland. The airline also announced today that it would increase frequency on this route from two flights per week to three, adding a Sunday service to accommodate weekend traffic.

Commenting on the new route Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “This is our second route from Newquay Airport adding to our existing service to Cork in the southwest of Ireland and we are delighted to be expanding further from the region. This new service to London Luton will provide greater choice for passengers in Cornwall travelling to the Capital and we look forward to working with the airport to further develop the service in the coming months.”

Andrew Mitchell, Cornwall County Council’s Economy Portfolio Holder, said, “We are pleased to be able to offer yet another way for Cornwall to connect with London. Luton is also an important hub for interlining to European and worldwide destinations, so I am sure this new route will prove popular and enhance Newquay’s growing reputation as a thriving airport. With the new route to Luton and the additional service to Cork on Sunday, we welcome the confidence Aer Arann have shown in the Cornish market. We look forward to working with them to make the service sustainable year round and to introduce other new routes from Newquay and into their expanding network”

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “Demand on the Cardiff-Dublin route has been very strong since we launched the service on 1st May and we are delighted to be offering additional choice and availability to passengers on the route from 3rd July.”

Jon Horne, Managing Director of Cardiff International Airport said “In the few weeks since it began flying between Cardiff and Dublin, Aer Arann has given Welsh passengers reliability, better schedules and now adds a choice of even more flights. What’s more, this award-winning airline has sustained Cardiff-Cork and introduced flights to Brittany and Galway. The growing rapport between Aer Arann and Welsh travellers is obvious and well-deserved.”

The airline also announced that it would increase frequency on its Dublin to Cardiff route adding an additional midday roundtrip Monday to Friday effective from 3rd July 2006. The new flight will depart Dublin at 12.15pm and Cardiff at 1.55pm with a flight time of one hour 20 minutes. The airline already operates a morning and evening service on this route.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “We are very pleased to announce this new Shannon-Dublin service today which is our twelfth new route for Summer 06. This service will compliment the existing schedule on the Dublin to Shannon route by providing a late afternoon service which will allow business passengers to complete a day return trip to and from the Capital. We look forward to working with Shannon Airport over the coming months to develop the service.”

He added “Regarding Dublin-Cardiff, demand on the route has been very strong since we launched the service on 1st May and we are delighted to be offering additional choice and availability to passengers on the route from 3rd July.”

The decision to cease the Isle of Man to Liverpool service came as a result of the continual poor performance of the route and a decline in the overall Isle of Man to Liverpool air market. The airline will initially reduce frequency on the route from five round trips to three on selected days effective from 28th May 2006 with the last flight to be operated on 18th June 2006.

Commenting on the announcement, Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “Demand on the route is significantly below the capacity available, with two airlines providing over 32,000 seats each month for around 15,000 passengers. The resultant low load factors driven both by air and sea competition, have led to a situation where the route has proven uneconomic for Aer Arann, regrettably leading to the decision to end services.”

He added “Following the changes to the Liverpool route, we will be improving the timings of our Dublin – Isle of Man service to provide a day return capability for business passengers whilst also serving the tourism and leisure markets. We will also continue to offer our twice-daily service to London Luton, with a new promotion launching today on both routes with fares from just £29.99 each way including taxes and charges. We remain committed to serving the Isle of Man and will continue to base an aircraft at Ronaldsway.”

Passengers booked on services beyond 18th June will be offered a full refund by Aer Arann.

This is Aer Arann’s fourth new route from Cork for summer 2006 including previously announced services to Cardiff, Newquay and Jersey. The airline also re-commenced the Cork Lorient service for a second season.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “Nantes is the 6th largest city in France and the capital of West France. Located on the Loire Estuary, the city boasts a rich and varied architectural and cultural heritage and is central to popular tourist destinations such as the Atlantic Coast, Brittany, Anjou and the Vendée. We are delighted to be launching this new service today and believe it will be popular with passengers from both regions.”

"I am delighted to see the return of a direct Cork-Nantes service from Cork Airport", said Pat Keohane, Chief Executive, Cork Airport. "The addition of the Cork-Nantes route is a further example of Aer Arann's commitment to Cork and the Cork Airport Authority's desire to provide our customers with the widest possible choice of travel destinations throughout Europe", continued Mr Keohane.

The new service will operate three days per week Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday departing Manchester at 4.00pm midweek and 6.20pm on Sunday and departing Nantes at 7.25pm midweek and 4.40pm on Sunday with a flight time of one hour and 40 minutes. The route will be operated by a 66 seater ATR72 aircraft.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “Nantes is the 6th largest city in France and the capital of West France. Located on the Loire Estuary, the city boasts a rich and varied architectural and cultural heritage and is central to popular tourist destinations such as the Atlantic Coast, Brittany, Anjou and the Vendée. We are delighted to be launching this new service today and believe it will be popular with passengers from both regions.”

Tim McDermott, aviation development director at Manchester Airport said: “We’re pleased to see that Aer Arann are continuing to go from strength to strength at Manchester. Their new Nantes service will provide further choice to passengers traveling between France and Manchester and I’m sure it will be an extremely successful route.”

The deal, which is worth over $180 million, is the single largest aircraft investment by a private Irish passenger airline and the third largest in Irish aviation history. It also represents one of the largest contracts awarded to ATR. This deal will allow Aer Arann to replace and supplement its existing fleet of 14 ATR42 and ATR72 aircraft bringing it to a fleet of 20 aircraft across its regional network by the end of 2009. The airline will take delivery of two aircraft in 2007, five in 2008 and three in 2009.

Commenting on the announcement Padraig O’Ceidigh, Managing Director, Aer Arann said “This is a significant milestone for Aer Arann and marks a consolidation of our strategic policy in going forward with an ATR fleet. The ATR 72-500 is playing a major role in the growth of regional carriers, offering great efficiency and reliability to modern operations. This expansion will enable us to develop our network further into the UK and mainland Europe and double the size of the airline over the next three years.”

Filippo Bagnato, ATR CEO, said “This new contract shows the confidence that Aer Arann has in the ATR aircraft and represents a new step forward for the increase in the turboprop market during the last two years. This new deal will allow ATR to consolidate its position in the European market”. He added “2006 is confirming the recovery of the turboprop market and the success of ATR aircraft. Since 1st January 2005, we have received orders for 136 new aircraft, some of them have yet to be announced”.

Since the beginning of the programme, ATR has sold 803 aircraft (398 ATR 42s and 405 ATR 72s) and delivered 692 aircraft (383 ATR 42-500 and 309 ATR 72-500). The ATR 72-500 is the latest development of the ATR 72 with a proven average dispatch reliability of more than 99.6%. This version shares the same power-plant, six-bladed propellers, the same interior design and soundproofing techniques of the ATR 42-500, thus offering the same excellent comfort and passenger appeal. Its standard capacity is of 68 seats. The ATR 72-500 has the lowest seat mile costs, recognised as a benchmark for the regional market. The increased power and aerodynamic refinements provide excellent take-off and landing performance. The maximum take-off weight (MTOW) was increased by 300 kg, from 22,500 to 22,800 kg, end of 2004. All ATR models are compliant with noise regulations and have a large margin with regard to Chapter IV (ICAO) noise regulations, effective 1st January 2006. The advanced six-blade propeller provides remarkably low outside noise levels. Low fuel burn and gaseous emissions contribute to make the ATR environment friendly.

This is Aer Arann’s fifth new UK route for summer 2006, having previously announced services from Cork to Cardiff and Newquay, Galway to Liverpool and Dublin to Inverness. Aer Arann currently operates over 600 flights per week across 34 routes in Ireland, the UK and France.

Commenting on the announcement Padraig O’Ceidigh, Managing Director, Aer Arann said “We are delighted to be announcing this service from Dublin to Cardiff today and believe it is very important to maintain a direct service between these two cities. This is our third route from Cardiff for summer 2006 including Cork to Cardiff and Cardiff to Lorient and we look forward to working with Cardiff Airport to further develop these services in the coming months.”

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “Having previously operated this service for three years we are delighted to be returning to operate the Knock to Dublin service. We believe there is considerable potential to grow this important route to and from the West of Ireland and look forward to working with the team at Ireland West airport Knock over the coming months to further develop the service.”

Managing Director of Ireland West Airport Knock, Liam Scollan, expressed his delight at the news that Aer Arann would be running the Dublin daily route. “We have always had an excellent service from Aer Arann both in terms of punctuality and reliability. In addition Aer Arann, under Padraig O’Ceidigh is strongly committed to the West of Ireland and we look forward to making the Dublin route from Ireland West a real success for everyone both here and in Dublin.”

Aer Arann has launched a total of twelve new routes for summer 2006 including services from Galway to Liverpool, Dublin to Inverness and Cork to Angers in the Loire Valley.

Aer Arann will operate over 600 flights per week across Ireland, the UK, France and Belgium for Summer 2006, and today’s announcement will bring the number of routes in the network to thirty-six.

Commenting on the new route Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “This is our fourth new route from Cork for summer 2006 representing considerable expansion from the Southwest region. We are delighted to be adding Cork to Newquay in Cornwall to our network of UK routes. Newquay is the West Counties beach paradise, with seven miles of sandy beaches and the surfing capital of the UK. We believe it will prove a popular leisure destination from Cork and look forward to working with both airports to develop the service in the coming months.”

Aer Arann will operate over 600 flights per week across Ireland, the UK , France and Belgium for Summer 2006, and with today’s announcement will bring the number of routes in the network to thirty-five.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager Aer Arann said “Our commercial team is continually looking for opportunities for expansion and as such we are delighted to be announcing this new service from Cork to Cardiff today. Cardiff has just celebrated its centenary as a city and its 50th year as Wales' capital and is a vibrant and thriving city. We look forward to working with both airports to develop the service in the coming months.”

16 th February 2006, Aer Arann, Ireland’s premier regional airline, today announced that it will launch two new routes from Cork Airport for the summer season. The new services from Cork to Jersey and Angers in the Loire Valley, France will begin operating on 2nd May 2006.

The Cork to Jersey service will operate weekly on Saturday departing Cork at 8.00am and Jersey at 09.50am with a flight time of one hour and twenty minutes. The Cork to Angers service will operate three days per week Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday departing Cork at 2.50pm midweek and 9.00am on Sunday and departing Angers at 6.10pm midweek and 12.20am on Sunday with a flight time of one hour forty minutes. Both services will be operated by a 66 seater ATR72 aircraft.

Aer Arann announced a total of five new services for summer 2006 as part of its network expansion strategy to the UK and Europe, bringing its total number of routes to thirty. Other new routes include Dublin to Inverness, Galway to Liverpool and Manchester to Angers. The airline will also re-commence the Cork Lorient service for a second season.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “Today’s announcement represents another important milestone in Aer Arann’s growth and development and we are delighted to be expanding our European operations for the summer season. Following the success of our Lorient service last year we anticipate strong demand for our new Angers service. Angers is the gateway to the Loire Valley famous for its historic towns, amazing chateaux and fine wines, while Jersey remains an ever-popular holiday destination for Irish tourists. We look forward to developing both markets in the months ahead.”

The new routes include Cork to Jersey, Cork to Angers and Manchester to Angers in the Loire Valley, France. The airline also recently announced that it would begin a Dublin to Inverness and Galway to Liverpool service on 6th April 2006 bringing the total number of new routes to five for summer 06.

The Cork to Jersey service will operate weekly on Saturday departing Cork at 8.00am and Jersey at 09.50am with a flight time of one hour and twenty minutes. The Cork to Angers service will operate three days per week Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday departing Cork at 2.50pm midweek and 9.00am on Sunday and departing Angers at 6.10pm midweek and 12.20am on Sunday with a flight time of one hour forty minutes. The Manchester to Angers service will also operate three days per week Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday departing Manchester at 3.40pm midweek and 11.15am on Sunday and departing Angers at 7.05pm midweek and 2.35pm on Sunday with a flight time of one hour and forty minutes. All of the services will be operated by a 66 seater ATR72 aircraft.

Aer Arann currently operates over 500 flights per week across 16 UK, 5 domestic and 5 French routes. Today’s announcement will bring the airline to a total of thirty routes.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “Today’s announcement represents another important milestone in Aer Arann’s growth and development. We are delighted to be expanding our UK and European operations for the summer season and believe that there is considerable potential to develop these new markets over the coming months. Following the success of our Lorient service last year we anticipate strong demand for both our Cork to Angers and Cork to Jersey services. Angers is the gateway to the Loire Valley famous for its historic towns, amazing chateaux and fine wines, while Jersey remains an ever popular holiday destination among Irish tourists.”

Aer Arann is one of the fastest growing regional airlines in Europe with a turnover in excess of €94 million and projected passenger numbers of 1.2 million for 2006. The airline currently operates over 500 flights per week across 16 UK, 5 Irish and 5 French routes.

Commenting on the announcement Jennifer Mooney, Communications Director Aer Arann said “We are delighted to be adding Inverness-Dublin to our network of Scottish routes. We believe there is considerable potential for a direct service between these two cities and look forward to working with the airport to develop this service over the coming months.”

The Galway to Liverpool service will operate four days per week, Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday departing Galway at 10.15am and Liverpool at 12.00 noon with a flight time of one hour fifteen minutes. The service will be operated by a 66 seater ATR72 aircraft.
This latest announcement follows the recent decision by the airline to purchase ten new aircraft over the next three-year period to support its route development strategy.
Commenting on the announcement Micheal O' Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said "Today's announcement represents another important milestone in Aer Arann's growth from Galway Airport. Liverpool is emerging as a premier UK destination with a rich and diverse heritage, thriving nightlife and unbeatable shopping. It is an ideal touring base for England's Northwest and we look forward to developing this new route in the coming months."
Galway Airport Chairman, Michael Corless welcomed the announcement by Aer Arann that they are to commence a Liverpool service. “This will be the fourth UK service operated by Aer Arann from Galway Airport, offering additional choice to the passenger. Direct air access is critical to the economy of the city, county and the West of Ireland. This latest route development is a further boost to Galway's business and leisure sectors, and is a continuation of the airports commitment to developing convenient, city-to-city connections. I would like to congratulate Padraig O'Ceidigh and his team at Aer Arann on their on-going commitment to expanding air services from Galway Airport and wish him and Aer Arann continuing success”.

The new flight will operate Monday to Friday departing the Isle of Man at 5.55pm arriving in Liverpool at 6.30pm. The return flight from Liverpool will depart at 7.00pm arriving in the Isle of Man at 7.35pm. Fares on the new service will start from £23.99 one way including tax and the service will be operated by a 50 seater ATR42 aircraft. Aer Arann currently operates 132 flights per week to and from the Isle of Man on the Dublin, Liverpool, London Luton and Manchester routes.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said “The Isle of Man has become an important hub for Aer Arann with four routes and over 100 flights per week from the island and we are delighted to be increasing frequency on the Isle of Man to Liverpool route from five to six flights per day in response to passenger demand.”

The service will operate six days per week and will be operated by an ATR72 aircraft. The flight will depart London Luton at 9.00am and Lorient at 3.15 pm. This is Aer Arann’s fourth service from London Luton Airport. The airline currently operates over 56 flights per week to and from London Luton to Waterford and Galway and recently announced that it will begin operating an Isle of Man service on the 24th November 2005.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager Aer Arann said “We are delighted to be adding Lorient to our network of routes from London Luton. Brittany is an extremely popular French destination for UK passengers and Lorient is very well located as a touring base for this area. Rennes, St Malo, Nantes, Mont St Michel and Brest are just some of the major centres within a comfortable two-hour drive of the airport. We believe there is considerable untapped demand from North London to the regions of Brittany and look forward to working with London Luton Airport to develop the service.”

Kathryn James, London Luton Airport's Managing Director said today; "Since arriving at London Luton Airport we have enjoyed a mutually productive relationship with Aer Arann on their Galway and Waterford services and are delighted with their recent announcement of a new daily service to Lorient, Brittany, which is certain to appeal to both business and leisure travellers alike".

"Both Aer Arann and London Luton Airport share a common vision of offering customers the highest standards combined with convenience and reliability. The choice of London Luton Airport to support their services is yet further validation of our excellence and convenience as a major gateway into both London and the UK".

For more information on schedules and fares visit www.aerarann.com or contact reservations on 0870 876 76 76.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager Aer Arann said “We have been exploring various options for additional routes from Kerry for some time now and we believe this new link to Lorient opens up a range of new options for leisure passengers in the region. Brittany is the second biggest French destination for Irish passengers after Paris and Lorient is very well located as a touring base for this area. Rennes, St Malo, Nantes, Mont St Michel and Brest are just some of the major centres within a comfortable two-hour drive of the airport. We believe there is considerable untapped demand from the Southwest of Ireland to the regions of Brittany and look forward to working with Kerry Airport to develop the service.”

Commenting on the new Lorient route, Denis Cregan Chairman Kerry Airport said “The Tourism Industry in Kerry is being offered a great opportunity by Aer Arann with our first scheduled route to France. Kerry Airport plans to maximize the benefits from inbound French tourists. This new route direct to France offers the opportunity to generate more than EURO 1 million in additional tourism revenue in 2006. It is a welcome option for Kerry people visiting France for short or long breaks and a lifeline to create new visitors to the Southwest region.”

For more information on schedules and fares visit www.aerarann.com or contact reservations on 0818 210 210.

Commenting on the announcement, Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said, “Following the recent announcement of our Isle of Man to Liverpool and Manchester services, we are delighted to be adding London Luton to our network of routes from the Isle of Man. This new service offers Islanders additional access to London and the opportunity to connect to several European destinations from one of the UK's fastest growing airports. London Luton Airport currently serves over 8 million passengers per year and offers excellent transport links by road and rail to the centre of London.”

Isle of Man Airport Director, Philip Pain said, “ We welcome the increased utilisation of the two Isle of Man based Aer Arann aircraft, and see it as a sign of Aer Arann's commitment and confidence to develop their newly established base on the Island. Luton is a long established route for the Island, which can now be developed to its full potential”.

The ERA Airline of the Year Award is the most recognized Airline Award for this sector of the industry. The winning airlines were chosen by an independent media panel of leading airline journalists from several different European countries who described Aer Arann as “a fast growing company with an admirable entrepreneurial culture and good ties with home markets, whose positive investment in IT and training clearly demonstrates their investment in the future”

They went on to say that the airline’s impressive growth was underpinned by good customer service and business strategy. “Aer Arann’s particular strength lies not only in their individual flavour and consistent strategy but also in their ability to react to customer feedback and change their product accordingly.”

The aim of the Airline of the Year Awards is to recognize the best overall achievement in the previous 12 months by an ERA member airline based on a wide range of criteria such as commercial and marketing strategy, finance, environment, operational efficiency and performance, product and customer service and industry representation.

Founded in 1980 the ERA is the only body representing the interests of the regional air transport industry in Europe. It is an Association of over 230 companies, including 70 airlines and over 160 associate and affiliate members comprising aircraft & engine manufacturers, international and regional airports and avionic suppliers and service providers.

Commenting on the announcement, Micheal O'Callarain, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said, "Following the recent announcement of our Isle of Man to Liverpool service, we are delighted to be adding Manchester to our network of routes from the Isle of Man. Manchester is the capital of the North West of England and the regional centre for commerce, retail and leisure and we believe there is considerable potential for the development and growth of this route. We look forward to serving both the business and leisure community with fares from as low as £19.99 one way including tax."

Phil Pain, Airport Director for the Isle of Man Airport, welcomed the announcement "Isle of Man to Manchester is a fundamentally important air service for the Island, both in terms of providing a frequent and cost-effective link with the UK for residents, and drawing visitors to the Island from North West England," he said. "We enjoy a good relationship with Aer Arann as they have served the Dublin - Isle of Man route over recent years and we welcome their confidence in the Isle of Man as an air service destination."

Commenting on the announcement, Padraig O Ceidigh, Managing Director of Aer Arann said, “We are delighted to be announcing this service from the Isle of Man to Liverpool. Liverpool is emerging as a premier UK destination with a rich and diverse heritage and we recognise that there is considerable demand for access between the Isle of Man and Liverpool following the withdrawal of Emerald Airways from the route. We are confident we can capture this market and are very well positioned to provide this service to Liverpool with the high quality and efficient service to which our passengers are accustomed.”

Phil Pain, Airport Director for the Isle of Man Airport, commented that this initiative would help to strengthen the Island’s biggest route. “Isle of Man to Liverpool is a fundamentally important air service for the Island, both in terms of providing a frequent and cost-effective link with the UK for residents, and drawing visitors to the Island from North West England,” he said. “We enjoy a good relationship with Aer Arann as they have served the Dublin – Isle of Man route over recent years and we welcome their confidence in the Isle of Man as an air service destination.”

Vic Brodrick Commercial Director for Liverpool John Lennon Airport, commented: “Aer Arann’s new link between the Isle of Man and Liverpool John Lennon Airport is excellent news given the traditional popularity of travel between the Isle of Man and Liverpool. We are certain that this new service will be a success, increasing choice and improving value for both leisure and business passengers giving access to the wide range of destinations served from Liverpool John Lennon Airport.”

14 th July 2005, Aer Arann, Ireland’s premier regional airline, today announced that it will begin operating its first route to France from Cork on the 23 rd July 2005 with the launch of a service to Lorient in South Brittany.

The service will initially operate one day a week on Saturday and will be operated by an ATR72 aircraft. The airline projects that it will carry in excess of 2,500 passengers on the route during the coming months.

The Cork to Lorient service will depart Cork Airport at 0820 on Saturday arriving in Lorient Airport at 1055 local time. The return flight will depart Lorient Airport at 1125 arriving in Cork Airport at 1205. Fares on the route will start from €49.99 one way including tax.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O Callarain, Marketing Manager Aer Arann said “we are delighted to be launching our first French route from Cork to Brittany, which is the most popular French destination for Irish passengers after Paris. We believe that there is considerable untapped demand from Cork to Brittany and we look forward to working with both airports to establish this service over the coming months”

Dedicated Domestic Departure Channel for Aer Arann Passengers at Dublin Airport

Aer Arann is delighted to announce the introduction of a new dedicated departure channel for domestic passengers travelling through Dublin Airport effective from 24th June 2005.

This move will speed up transit through the airport for domestic passengers travelling on Aer Arann flights to Cork, Donegal, Galway, Kerry and Sligo as they will now be able to avoid queuing with passengers travelling on International and long haul flights.

Commenting on the announcement Micheal O’Callarain, Marketing Manager Aer Arann said “We raised this issue with the Dublin Airport Authority some time ago and very much welcome today’s decision to introduce this new channel. As we are in the midst of the peak summer season, we believe that it will provide considerable benefit to domestic commuters by speeding up transit times through the airport, reducing the need for queuing and ultimately providing a more seamless travelling experience for Aer Arann passengers. ”

Aer Arann celebrates PSO contract win

26 th May 2005, Aer Arann Ireland's leading regional airline welcomed the announcement today by the Department of Transport that the airline has been successful in renewing its tender to operate the Kerry, Galway, Donegal and Sligo Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes.

Aer Arann has been successfully operating these routes since 2001 and today's announcement confirms that the airline will continue to operate these services until July 2008. Aer Arann currently operates over 500 flights per week across 17 UK, 6 domestic and 2 French routes and has experienced considerable growth in the past three years carrying just under 1 million passengers in 2004.

Commenting on the announcement Padraig O'Ceidigh, Managing Director for Aer Arann said " We are delighted to have been awarded the contract to continue operating the Kerry, Galway, Donegal and Sligo PSO routes and are exceptionally well positioned to provide an excellent service to these regions. In the past we have worked closely with the airports and business and tourism interests to increase passenger numbers to these regions and we look forward to further developing these routes over the next three years. "

He added " We are disappointed that we have not been given the opportunity to continue operating the Knock-Dublin route and I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the professionalism of the Knock Airport staff and management team. We have enjoyed working with them and regret that Knock will no longer form part of our domestic route network"

Aer Arann scoops prestigious Marketing Award

28th April 2005, Aer Arann Ireland’s leading regional airline was presented with the Sean F. Lemass Award by the Marketing Institute of Ireland at the Institutes Presidents Night which took place at the King’s Inns in Dublin.

Aer Arann celebrates 3 millionth passenger as it announces summer 2005 schedule

22nd February 2005 , Aer Arann, Ireland’s premier regional airline, announced today that it had carried its three millionth passenger across its seventeen UK, six domestic and two French routes. Mr Denis O’Sullivan, a frequent flyer on the Cork-Dublin route was presented with a travel voucher to the value of €1,000, flowers and champagne by Padraig O’Ceidigh, Managing Director, Aer Arann to celebrate being named the three millionth passenger to travel with the airline.

With a staff of 350, a turnover in excess of EUR94 million and passenger numbers of just under 1 million in 2004, Aer Arann is one of the fastest growing regional airlines in Europe. The airline experienced a 62% increase in passenger numbers last year, launched a total of nine news services and took delivery of two 66 seater ATR72 aircraft bringing its total fleet size to ten ATR aircraft.

Today’s announcement coincided with the launch of the airlines summer 2005 schedule, which confirmed that the airline will operate a direct service from Waterford and Galway to Lorient in South Brittany effective from 11 th May 2005. The services, which will run three days per week on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday will be operated by a 66 seater ATR72 aircraft with one way fares starting from €89.99 including tax.

Aer Arann is also increasing frequency on its Cork-Dublin commuter service to offer a total of 11 flights per day each way on the route Monday-Friday to accommodate business and leisure passengers. Direct services from Kerry to Manchester and Donegal to Glasgow Prestwick will continue to operate three days per week for the summer period.