New York mayor Michael Bloomberg visited Knock Airport in Co Mayo today to mark the introduction of direct transatlantic flights between the airpot and New York.
New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg
From May 27th, flyglobespan, a Scottish-based low-cost airline, will operate three flights a week between the Mayo airport and JFK airport in New York, along with two weekly flights to Boston's Logan Airport.
The routes were approved by the US department of transportation following lobbying by Mr Bloomberg.
Flights to JFK will depart from Ireland West Airport Knock on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 2.30pm, arriving at JFK at 6pm local time. Flights from JFK to Knock will depart at 8pm and arrive at 7.20am on Wednesdays, Fridays and Mondays. Fares on the flights will start at €157 plus tax.
The decision to introduce direct flights to Knock arose from Mr Bloomberg's last visit to Ireland in August 2006, when he passed through the airport on his way to dedicating a memorial to the Fighting 69th Infantry Regiment of the New York National Guard in Ballymote, Co Sligo.
Speaking at a press conference in Ireland West Airport today, Mr Bloomberg said: "When I last visited this picturesque corner of the Emerald Isle, I learned just how essential it was to establish a direct route between Ireland West Knock an the United States — which is why one of my first tasks upon returning to the States was to lobby the US Department of Transportation to approve this vital connection between our countries.
"Not only will these routes strengthen cultural and familial bonds between the City and Ireland, they will be a boost for our tourism industry. Once these flights begin in May, they will be another way for Irish residents to come to New York and 'shop while the dollar drops.'"
He thanked Congressman Peter King, Deputy Mayor for Government Affairs Kevin Sheekey, and his new Irish Cultural Liaison Adrian Flannelly, who were all "instrumental in the approval of the routes."
The Government was represented at today's event by Minister for Agriculture Mary Coughlan who formally welcomed Mr Bloomberg to the Republic.
Ms Coughlan will travel to New York next month for St Patrick's Day celebrations.
Speaking in the Co Mayo airport today, Ms Coughlan said: "Ireland West Airport Knock has grown to such an extent over the past 21 years that it is now the first choice airport for people throughout the west and northwest.
"The addition of direct flights to the United States is a major achievement for its board, management and staff and one that will open up many new opportunities for tourism and business in the region."