THE new service from Shannon to Paris Orly by low-cost Spanish airline Vueling will not only give passengers access to the French capital, but also provide hub connectivity to other European cities and the Middle East, said Clare TD Joe Carey.
“This should prove a significant attraction to the tourism market and also to the many businesses in the Mid-West that are focused on the European and Middle Eastern markets, said the Fine Gael TD.
“It also increases the number of airlines operating out of Shannon to four and should encourage other international carriers to view the airport as a viable alternative to the overburdened Dublin gateway,” he said.
“The fact that the Shannon Group continued to invest and develop passenger facilities during the Covid pandemic is now being seen as a major factor in the airport’s ongoing recovery.
“The new security screening technology has proven to be a major factor in enhancing Shannon’s reputation as a passenger friendly airport.
“I am confident that this will play a significant role in attracting new business to the airport as it continues its post-Covid recovery,” Deputy Carey added.
The new Shannon/Paris service will start on September 12 with flights on Mondays and Fridays. It brings the total number of services from Shannon to the US, the UK and Europe to 27
Fianna Fáil’s Cathal Crowe also welcomed the new service.
“Paris-Orly is just 13km from the centre of Paris city and will open up huge potential both in terms of tourism and business for Shannon Airport customers.
“Securing a link to Paris has long been a goal of mine and for Shannon Group, as it opens Shannon up to a major European city and hub.
“Paris-Orly is 34km from Charles de Gaulle Airport, meaning it can operate as a transitional hub to onward travel where necessary.
“I very much welcome today’s news and also want to take this opportunity to welcome Vueling to Shannon and I look forward to more positive announcements to come.”
Owen Ryan
Owen Ryan has been a journalist with the Clare Champion since 2007, having previously worked for a number of other regional titles in Limerick, Galway and Cork.