THERE WAS relief in the midwest yesterday that Aer Lingus may not end its Shannon to New York service as had been planned. But there was still anger about the airline’s treatment of its customers in the region, given its decision to cut the service to Chicago.

It was reported by The Irish Timesyesterday that Aer Lingus would suspend services between Shannon and New York and Chicago for the winter months.

At the time of making the decision, however, Aer Lingus was not aware of plans by Delta Airlines to axe its Shannon to New York operation from October 4th. This resulted in Aer Lingus placing its Shannon-JFK service “under review”.

Delta confirmed late on Thursday that it will suspend its Shannon-New York JFK service for the winter from October 4th because of projected seasonal demand levels. Delta said the service would recommence in summer 2010.

Shannon’s airport director Martin Moroney said that while there was disappointment over the loss of the Chicago route for the winter, the retention of other services and the basing of an aircraft at Shannon to strengthen the Heathrow flights was positive.

He said he was confident the New York service was sustainable, particularly following the decision by Delta Airlines to suspend its winter JFK service.

“Last winter Delta carried approximately 30,000 passengers through Shannon and a significant portion of these will now be available to Aer Lingus,” Mr Moroney said. “Retaining a JFK service is very important to us as it complements the daily Continental Airlines service, which also serves the New York market through the Newark hub.”

Shannon also welcomed Aer Lingus’ decision to base an aircraft at Shannon from October to enable it increase its Heathrow service to three flights a day each way.

The airline reintroduced the service earlier this year after a 14-month absence. But local political representatives were critical of Aer Lingus’s latest decisions in relation to Shannon airport.

Clare Fine Gael Deputy Joe Carey said: “It seems Aer Lingus have learned nothing from the Shannon – Heathrow affair. These routes are profitable if marketed and timetabled in the right manner. The Shannon to New York and Chicago routes are vital for business interests in the region. The majority of Irish industry is as a result of direct foreign investment.

“It is also not clear if the airline will return these routes once the summer schedule arrives. The uncertainty will be a major blow for tourist industry in the region.

“I want government to use its shareholding to prevent Aer Lingus from making this disastrous and knee jerk decision.

Pat Flynn