‘Open skies’ talks may end Shannon stopover

THE Government is to seek the immediate resumption of talks between the EU and the US on a new ‘open skies’ policy.

The Cabinet yesterday decided to press for a new round of talks on transatlantic air traffic policy, following a detailed briefing from Transport Minister Martin Cullen.

A new ‘open skies’ regime would open up dozens of new direct routes to US cities for Aer Lingus and other airlines. However, from an Irish perspective, the quid pro quo would be the end of the compulsory stopover at Shannon.