Aer Lingus, an Ireland-based airline company, is to relocate its operations in Belfast, North Ireland.
The airline, which has been operating out of Belfast International Airport, will be based at the George Best Belfast City Airport from the commencement of its winter schedule on October 28, 2012.
Christoph Mueller, the airline’s chief executive officer, said, ‘Northern Ireland’s vital London connections are secure with Aer Lingus. The two aircraft which we normally use in the winter for a mixture of sun destinations and Heathrow will be used for Heathrow and Gatwick with a third aircraft serving two European routes in the new-look summer schedule.
This is a commercial decision delivering value for our customers and the company. George Best Belfast City Airport delivers a compelling location and a strong history of business flying. We believe the move will appeal to the 600,000 plus passengers annually who fly with us and especially the business traveller who now has a choice of two London airports with Aer Lingus.’
The airline has decide to relocate its operations following a tender process that involved both airports, and it will be maintaining two aircraft at the city airport during the winter, and three in the summer flying season.
Brian Ambrose, the chief executive of George Best Belfast City Airport, said, ‘We extend a warm welcome to Aer Lingus and look forward to working closely with the airline in creating a strong base in which to develop a growing route network.
I am delighted with the frequency of services to London Heathrow and Gatwick. By the end of October, Belfast City will offer Northern Ireland’s only linkage to Heathrow with 10 flights per day.’
