Aviation deal to increase US flights

AN agreement that will revolutionise air traffic between Europe and America, cutting prices and increasing the number of flights, has been reached between the EU and the US.

As a result, the Shannon stopover that forces half of US flights to land there will be phased out by 2008. But Aer Lingus will be able to expand its service, landing at up to 18 US cities instead of six. Flights into Ireland will also increase.

Fianna Fáil MEP Sean O Neachtain called on the Government to make sure Shannon airport wins a substantial part of the air travel business that will open up between Ireland and the US.