DAA, the state body responsible for managing Cork and Dublin airports, has revealed that a direct route from Cork to New York could be opened within the next three years. Cork Airport submitted a proposal to the government’s ‘mid-term review’ of regional airports, stating that there is a demand for transatlantic services, particularly between Cork and New York. The airport is currently in discussions with multiple airlines and is actively pursuing this opportunity on commercial grounds. While the opening of the route is considered a medium-term project, the timeframe being worked on is three years.
A recent survey conducted by Cork Chamber, in collaboration with Cork Airport, found that New York was the most sought-after new direct destination from Cork Airport. The survey, which questioned businesses about their travel patterns and future route preferences, revealed that 75% of all long-haul trips from Cork were destined for the Americas, with New York being the most desired airport for future connectivity. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, emphasized the importance of new routes to key business locations in supporting the continued economic growth of the Cork region.
Irish airports have been actively exploring opportunities to establish increased direct links to the Americas in order to expand their offerings and attract more passengers. In an interview with the Irish Independent in May, DAA’s CEO, Kenny Jacobs, confirmed that exploratory talks were underway with LATAM, one of Latin America’s largest airlines, regarding a potential route from Dublin Airport to Brazil. Additionally, Hainan Airlines from China recently announced the reopening of its direct route from Dublin to Beijing, further highlighting the focus on expanding long-haul travel at Irish airports.
Cork Airport’s submission to the regional mid-term review also included a request for the state to subsidize airport charges at the facility as part of its efforts to reduce emissions. While the organization supports the government’s goal of reducing Ireland’s emissions by 51% by 2030, it believes increased state support would be beneficial. The submission suggests that targeted supports for the reduction of aircraft emissions should be considered, including subsidizing airport charges on the condition that airports operate more sustainable aircraft. It also proposes that the provision of operating aid for airports could specifically support airlines’ expectations of discounts on airport charges for the deployment of low-carbon aircraft.
In conclusion, Cork Airport is actively pursuing a direct route to New York, with discussions ongoing with potential airline partners. The demand for transatlantic services has been identified, and the results of a recent survey conducted by Cork Chamber further emphasize the desire for increased connectivity to key business locations. Irish airports as a whole are exploring opportunities to expand their offerings and attract more passengers, with a focus on establishing direct links to the Americas. Cork Airport’s submission to the regional mid-term review also highlights the importance of state support in reducing emissions and promoting sustainability in the aviation industry.