Two terminals would only duplicate services

RYANAIR’S repeated interest in using the old terminal at Cork airport at first glance sounds very attractive.

However, there are compelling reasons why Cork Airport Authority is correct in opposing such a move.

There would be an immediate duplication of services, all of which would add considerably to the airport’s cost base

While offering generous terms to a low-cost carrier may lead to growth in the short term, one would have to question whether offering such incentives is sustainable over a longer period. The impact on existing business must also be taken into consideration. Cork has enjoyed strong growth in recent years and now has a wide range of airlines operating scheduled services to more than 40 destinations from its new terminal. Most of these airlines, including Aer Lingus, consider themselves to be low-cost operators and would almost certainly wish to avail of any incentives made available to operate from the old terminal. This would very quickly turn the new state-of-the-art terminal into a white elephant and plunge the airport into a financial crisis.

The reality is that an airport of Cork’s size cannot afford to have two terminals competing with each other. It is in Cork’s interest that it does not become over dependent on any one airline for its growth.

Cllr Tom O’Driscoll

Cork City Council

City Hall

Cork