Airport at ‘critical’ point despite €526k lifeline

The future of Waterford Airport was a little more secure last night after the allocation of €526,500 by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) for infrastructure work.

However, the airport remains at “a critical juncture,” according to one Government TD, despite the IAA announcement which follows the recent release of funding of €405,000 towards a 150-metre runway extension.

The airport remains without a London route, a link considered vital to its long-term future.

The IAA funding is to be spent on boundaries, fencing and flight aids and will bring capital expenditure funding for the airport to almost €1m in 2013 and 2014.

Fine Gael TD John Deasy said the announcement intensifies the focus on finding a carrier for the “crucial” London route. “I think it’s fair to say the airport has arrived at a critical juncture. It needs this funding — and private capital — if it is to attract and cater for different types of jet aircraft and provide direct links to the UK and continental Europe.”

Securing a replacement carrier to re-start the London route is “critically important,” Mr Deasy said.

Aer Lingus cancelled its flights between Waterford and Manchester, London Southend and London Luton last January and the only current service is that provided by Flybe from Waterford to Birmingham, which also allows passengers to travel on to other UK and European destinations.