Success to continue, say airport bosses

THE SKY is the limit for Waterford Regional Airport, executive board bosses said yesterday.

Passenger numbers in the year ahead are to grow to 110,000 or more and direct flights are planned to a series of European hotspots. And airport promoters say when the 250,000 target is reached, they’ll be aiming for a 500,000 throughput.

Airport chairman Nicky Fewer said it has been a significant year for the airport but the best is yet to come. “We have had good times but next year will be the icing on the cake. It is then that we will see its true impact regionally and nationally,” Mr Fewer vowed.

So far this year, 70,000 passengers have used Waterford Regional Airport.

That’s up from 56,000 last year — a 50% growth. And growth is anticipated at a further 20% this year with passenger numbers expected to go into the high six-figure level next year.

“We will be launching up to seven new routes in 2007, bringing us to a whole new and different level of operation,” he said. “It will also bring change in management and the board. We have very strong commitment from our voluntary board and they bring to the table very different skills.

“We are very thankful to every member of the executive board for giving so freely of their time. The phenomenal growth we have seen would not have been possible without their commitment and their energy.

“It’s going to be an exciting year ahead. The sun destinations launch is about to happen. We hope to increase our flights into the UK and increase our passenger numbers to well beyond 110,000.”

A survey of passengers shows that while up to 50% of those using the airport are from Waterford city or their environs, many others are from Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, South Tipperary and even Cork.

Director Sean Power said the biggest single issue for many people using the airport is convenience. And he said that the time saved travelling to Dublin or Cork or the expense involved is cut out by using Waterford.