Aer Lingus Announces Plans to Suspend Transatlantic Flights from Shannon

The well known Irish carrier Aer Lingus will now stop its flights to New York and Boston from Shannon starting January 5^th. The company said that these flights will be stopped because of significant losses. The suspension, which affects eight flights per week, will last for at least five weeks, or until March 27^th.

The airline said that the decision came after a detailed review on route profitability. After March 27^th, Aer Lingus will continue its four flights per week between Shannon and New York for the remaining nine months of that year. The airline will also fly another four flights per week between Shannon and Boston.

Ever since 1995, Aer Lingus has lost a total of €163 million on its transatlantic flights from Shannon during the winter months. The average operating loss per winter season is about €11 million. The CEO of Aer Lingus, Christoph Mueller, said that the airline is committed to the Shannon market as an important part of their network.

The CEO finished up by saying that, however, in order to maintain the viability of their Shannon transatlantic operations throughout the remainder of the year, the 3-month suspension of this route when seasonal demand is at its lowest is very crucial.

Due to the big drop in passengers that happens during those winter months, experts assume that this move should not affect too many people. Despite that fact, it will affect some. However, experts point out that other airlines will more than likely be flying similar transatlantic flights that people can use. The airline is sorry for any kind problems that this will cause for its passengers.