Aer Lingus will temporarily suspend flights to Boston from Shannon over the Easter period, a move that has vexed local representatives.
The airline, citing "operational reasons", has cancelled flights between 29 March and 8 April. The Boeing 757 jet that typically operates the route is needed in Dublin, the airline claims.
Aer Lingus will offer alternative plans to those affected by the change and has said it is "doing all possible to minimise the disruption to customers’ travel plans.”
The change, however, has sparked anger among politicians and spokespeople for the industry, the Limerick Leader reports. Michael McNamara, a Labour TD for Clare has expressed concern over the apparent preferential treatment Aer Lingus give to Dublin, at Shannon's expense.
"This is indicative of the attitude Aer Lingus has to Shannon and it is concerning. Aer Lingus really needs to show its full commitment to Shannon because I would be worried that this attitude would continue to Shannon’s detriment," said McNamara.
Fianna Fáil’s transport spokesman Timmy Dooley wondered if the cancellation was necessary. “This goes to show once again how Shannon is treated by Aer Lingus. Why couldn’t the airline make alternative arrangements?” he asked.
Shannon has been boosted recently by impressive passenger figures in 2014, after previously suffering five straight years of decline prior to 2013.
