Aer Arann sponsorship boost for Connacht

Connacht have received a timely boost ahead of the new season with Aer Arann coming on board as an associate sponsor of the side.

"We are delighted to welcome Aer Arann on board for the new season," said Connacht CEO Gerry Kelly. "This is an important season for Connacht rugby," he added.

This is the first major rugby sponsorship deal for Aer Arann, which operates more than 600 flights per week across 39 routes in Ireland, the UK and France.

Connacht will open their Magners League campaign away to Borders on September 3 and will then have seven home matches on the trot, including their opening game of the European Challenge Cup against Harlequins.