New terminal opened at Knock Airport

Today saw the official opening of the new Kennedy Terminal at Ireland West Knock Airport.

The new terminal, officially opened by Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey, forms part of a total capital investment project of €11.5m.

The Kennedy Terminal is named after Joe Kennedy, honorary president of the airport's board of directors and former chairman for more than seven years.

"Joe has been a major driving force behind the Airport's recent growth and we are delighted that there will be a permanent sign of thanks to him, his wife Kathleen and family, here in this airport," said airport chairman Liam Scollan.

Joe Gilmore, managing director of Ireland West Airport Knock said: "Despite the tough economic conditions, the airport will serve more than 600,000 passengers this year which is almost on a par with 2008 figures.

"This is a huge vote of confidence in Ireland West Airport Knock as a key access point to the UK and Europe for people in the West, North West and Midlands regions of Ireland and further strengthens our position as the low-cost, convenient alternative to larger, congested airports.

"I see us as entering a new phase where we can, with the right support from Government and other partners, act as a catalyst to growing more transport connections, tourism, enterprise and jobs in the region."