CityJet to axe Shannon services to Paris

Shannon Airport has expressed its regret over the announcement today by CityJet/Air France that it is to cease services from Shannon to Paris with effect from October 24.

Responding to the announcement, Airport Director Martin Moroney said that the Paris Charles de Gaulle service restored global connectivity for the entire West of Ireland at a vital time when it was established in February 2008 but he accepted that the economic downturn had made it very difficult for the airline to attract significant passenger numbers this year, particularly with their larger 100-seater aircraft.

"We were delighted that CityJet came in on the route when it did as it restored connectivity to one of the world’s leading airport hubs for the West of Ireland," he said.

"Unfortunately, air travel has been badly affected by the downturn and in 2009 in particular, with CityJet/Air France no exception, and we accept their need to cut loss making routes, which they are doing across their network.

"We have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with CityJet and will be keeping lines of communications open with them with a view to attracting them back on this service, and others, as the economy begins to recover."