(JJ Hurley)
Fine Gael Candidate for Cork South West, Noel O’Donovan’s promise to seek the return of transatlantic flights to Cork airport has sparked an online debate for increased flights for the local transport hub
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In a response to Cllr O'Donovan's suggestion, the idea drew a positive reaction from those responding to the issue on social media
One of those supporting the Cllr O’Donovan’s initiative said, 'It is great not to have to take the bus to Dublin to explore Europe and beyond.'
'So much easier for young families too.
'Re farther afield, We used Norwegian to Boston (Providence) when it was running, and it was great.’
' The plane was full. So many travelling more now so I think it would be supported again.’
The flight from Cork to Boston provided by Norwegian Airlines had proven very popular, but the service was discontinued in 2018, due to a lack of numbers.
While the American destination was attractive to many potential customers commenting on the suggestion, the vast majority sought more regular services to Europe, many of which are shelved for the winter.
One passenger, who described themselves as a regular commuter to the continent, said,’ Cork definitely needs more flights to European destinations. It’s all geared towards the U.K. and sun holidays.’
What certainly exercised those expressing their opinion was a suggestion that Cork is treated as second choice by the DAA, with one poster suggesting, ‘Cork gets the dregs of Dublin because of the DAA micro control and as a result flights are fairly seasonal, and school holiday orientated, with the except of flights to London and Amsterdam.’
Certainly, last year’s figures for September bore out that argument with Dublin catering for 3.8 million passengers to Cork’s figure of 295, 000.
With many of those departing Cork to access connectivity through Amsterdam, London and other venues, the argument online suggests it doubles the price and increases the travel time.
According to those using the service at Cork, more direct flights and non-stop flights to European capitals as well as to America are certainly worth investigating.
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