AN AFTERNOON flight will be reintroduced on the Dublin to Donegal air service it was confirmed this week.
The Government-funded route, which is operated by Aer Lingus’ Emerald Airlines, had been removed from the service since March 29, leaving only morning and evening flights linking the two cities.
That move has now been scrapped after it was highlighted that removing the afternoon flight could force cancer patients to have to pay to stay overnight when attending medical appointments in the capital.
Having “listened to the concerns raised by passengers and stakeholders”, Ireland’s Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien confirmed the reinstatement of the lunchtime service this week.
“I have been fully committed to offering a lunchtime service between Donegal and Dublin to ensure that an effective service is provided at times that work for all those availing of the service, including critical care patients,” Minister O’Brien said.
“My department has actively engaged with Emerald Airlines in agreeing terms for the reinstatement of the previous schedule including the aircraft overnighting in Donegal Airport,” he added.
“I also want to thank Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher, Minister Charlie McConalogue, and Senator Manus Boyle for their work in representing the needs of the community in relation to the reinstatement of the flights.
“I would like to thank Emerald Airlines for their constructive engagement in bringing this matter to a successful conclusion today and wish them continued success in operating this important route.”