Open terminal signals new departure as airport parties

THERE were celebrations at Cork Airport’s new €160 million terminal yesterday as it was used for the first time for departures.

The Richardson family were rather awe-struck by all the attention as airport officials pointed out their place in history as they were about to board the first flight out — the 6.30am service to Amsterdam.

Chris, Michelle and their sons Kyle and Lewis, who had flown into Cork for a family wedding were on their way back to Holland when descended upon by happy staff who presented them with a piece of Waterford Crystal, a bottle of champagne and a bouquet of flowers.

The presentation was made by the airport’s assistant general manager, Sheila Murphy.

However, they weren’t the only ones to get a present to mark the occasion. All passengers on departing flights yesterday were presented with a box of chocolates, courtesy of the airport’s Travel Value Shop.

More than 45 planes flew out of the airport yesterday carrying approximately 5,000 passengers.

A spokeswoman for the airport said departing passengers will now be able to experience a 21st century send off, with 30 check-in desks and Aer Lingus ‘Fast Pass’ self-service check-in kiosks.

The new terminal is three times the size of the old building and has two new outbound baggage belts, plus a third ‘out of gauge’ luggage belt for buggies, golf clubs, skis, etc.

* www.corkairport.com