Sir, - The recent threat by Delta Air Lines to withdraw its transatlantic services because of the Shannon-Dublin stop is a sharp reminder of decisions based on the economic implications of this policy. I believe Aer Lingus has also discontinued some of its direct flights from Dublin to the US since last September. The discussions do not give voice to the major concerns of the travelling public which include not only inconvenience and discomfort but more importantly considerable health and safety risks.
The stop-over increases the number of take-offs and landings, which are the most dangerous part of air travel. In addition it lengthens the total journey time which is already subject to inevitable increase due to delays. Due to the increased risks to health connected with the longer travel times every effort should be made to shorten this as much as possible. Enforced inconvenience and added health and safety risks seem a high price for passengers to pay for a dubious government policy.
As a vascular surgeon I am concerned about the increasing referral of patients with travel-related vascular problems. This is a considerable and growing concern and must be taken into account when these decisions are taken.
It is to be hoped that the Minister will reconsider this decision to avoid further personal distress and increased financial expenditure. - Yours, etc.,
T.V.KEAVENY,
Consultant Vascular
and General Surgeon,
Blackrock Clinic,
Blackrock,
Co Dublin.