Ryanair to quit Belfast City Airport

RYANAIR boss Michael O’Leary has blamed Stormont government delays over approving a controversial runway extension for his decision to pull out of George Best Belfast City Airport.

The chief executive launched a blistering attack on the Stormont authorities as he announced Ryanair would stop using the airport from October 31.

While the 50 Ryanair staff working on the Belfast routes will be offered redeployment opportunities, Mr O’Leary claimed the move would cost 1,000 other jobs that rely on the operator’s presence in the city.