Ryanair backs Cork-US flights bid

Ryanair has backed a low-fares rival’s plans to launch the first transatlantic flights from Cork Airport, as opposition to the service mounts.

Europe’s largest airline said plans by Norwegian Air International (NAI), which are being vigorously opposed by US labour unions and traditional ‘legacy’ airlines, will result in increased competition and customer choice, a better service, and lower fares for American and European consumers.

The comments are made in Ryanair’s submission to the US Department of Transportation (DoT) as part of its final consultation process triggered by its tentative decision to approve NAI’s application for a foreign carrier permit to operate a Cork to Boston service this year, and a Cork-New York route next year.