Airline chief’s upbeat message

Brian O’Mahony, Chief Business Correspondent

His decision to join was based on an “unshakeable belief that, despite the challenges in the market, this airline can have a promising and profitable future.”

Aer Lingus was a company with tremendous growth opportunities, he said.

“We have an excellent track record of delivering service to our customers and I am well aware that wouldn’t be possible without the commitment that each of you personally has made. I hope that now together, we can build on those solid foundations.”

Mr Mannion went on: “I am very proud of my background with Emirates, the fastest growing and most profitable airline in the world in recent years.

“I’ve always been very conscious of the standing and importance of Aer Lingus to the country and to Irish people generally...

I’ve watched closely the manner in which the company has faced and dealt with both good and bad times.”

Mr Mannion warned of a tough task ahead.

“I’m under no illusion though that this will be easy,” he said, pointing to the challenges facing the sector.

“It was a matter of public record that 2005 to date has been tough, and while short haul is going in the right direction the business is behind target in relation to the cost-savings programme.

“To move on and achieve the airline’s true potential, we need also to get going on long haul where the lack of a ‘fly anywhere’ agreement at present is a major constraint on us operating any new long-haul routes,” he said.

“Ultimately we must all share the goal of wanting to enhance and develop our existing business to realise that further growth potential which exists.

“I look forward to us seizing those opportunities now to create the Aer Lingus of the future for our staff, customers and all our stakeholders,” he said.