2012-10-03 14:30:54 - The Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council and Mayor of Limerick have urged people across Limerick to support the newly announced non-stop summer service between Chicago O’Hare Airport and Shannon International Airport, announced today by United Airlines.

Councillor Jerome Scanlan and Councillor Gerry McLoughlin said the new service will further enhance connectivity between the West of Ireland and the US market, and will be especially welcomed by business and tourism interests in the region.

According to Councillor Jerome Scanlan: “In the past, airlines have either reduced or ceased some transatlantic services due to what they had described as low yield factors. While I believe that transatlantic services from Shannon have always been well supported by people in the West of Ireland, I think that every effort must be made to continue to promote this new service and existing transatlantic routes. Quality connectivity to the United States is critical for multinationals operating in Ireland and for key decision makers

seeking possible locations for investment. Such connectivity is also the lifeblood of tourism in Limerick.”

Welcoming today’s announcement, Mayor McLoughlin said that the future expansion of services from Shannon Airport would require a continuation of the collaborative and proactive approach being adopted by regional development agencies, including Limerick Local Authorities, and the tourism sector to promoting the Airport.

“There is no doubt that the proposed separation of Shannon Airport from the DAA has provided added impetus in relation to ongoing efforts to source new business at the airport. The people of Limerick can also play their part in securing the future of the airport by considering the services that it provides when planning a trip abroad. I am delighted by United Airlines’ announcement and look forward to the airline playing a central role in the development of an independent Shannon Airport,” the Mayor added.