Shannon’s business community have reacted positively to the earlier daily departure times being introduced by Aer Lingus on its Shannon to Heathrow route.
Reacting to the announcement, Chris Ahern, managing director and president of Zagg International said: “It now gives us the opportunity for one-day travel and meetings and eliminates the requirement for an overnight stay.”
Chief Executive of Shannon Chamber Helen Downes was also fulsome in her acknowledgement of the benefit this timing change will deliver to business. “In a number of surveys we have undertaken on travel patterns, companies have cited London Heathrow as the UK destination most frequently used by their executives, with customers and suppliers also using this route for business visits to Shannon.
“Hence the enthusiastic welcome this announcement has received. Additionally, we welcome the fact that it brings more global connectivity for businesses in Shannon, crucial to business development in our region. Ease of access and global connectivity are critical requirements of existing and new foreign direct investment; therefore, changes of this nature send out a very positive message about Shannon as a choice investment location.
Helen continued, “Slots at Heathrow are not easy to come by. It is not just Irish airports that will have been competing for these slots but airports across Europe and beyond all want more slots into Heathrow especially at peak times. For Aer Lingus to prioritise Shannon links for these slots represents a massive success for our business community and a massive show of intent by the airline.