EasyJet’s Debut at City of Derry Airport with New Routes to Edinburgh and Liverpool

Image Credit: The Independent

EasyJet has announced the launch of new routes from the City of Derry Airport, marking the airline’s debut at the airport. Starting November 4, EasyJet will operate flights to and from Edinburgh and Liverpool twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays. This development is set to provide stronger domestic connectivity between Northern Ireland and key cities in the UK.

Ali Gayward, EasyJet’s UK country manager, expressed the airline’s enthusiasm about this new venture. “We are delighted to announce our first flights from City of Derry Airport this winter,” Gayward said. “As the largest airline in Northern Ireland, expanding our network allows us to offer our customers in Northern Ireland even greater choice and connectivity within the UK, all with great value fares and friendly service. We look forward to welcoming them on board.”

Steve Frazer, managing director of the City of Derry Airport, hailed this as an “extremely significant step forward” for the airport and the wider northwest region. He highlighted the economic benefits, stating that the new routes will be pivotal for business investment and inbound travel and tourism. “This is an operator that has never operated at the airport before, and it fills routes that we have been looking to fill for about three or four years,” Frazer explained. “With EasyJet, this has taken about three years to make happen.”

Brenda Morgan MBE, the airport’s head of business development, emphasized the demand for these flights from both corporate and leisure travelers in the northwest. “The flight schedule for Mondays and Fridays provides fantastic timings for business travel during the week and weekend breaks for the leisure market,” Morgan stated.

Greg McCann, president of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the news, describing it as “hugely welcome.” He noted that this expansion delivers the increased connectivity the North West region has long needed. “We look forward to the economic benefits these services will bring and to the City of Derry Airport further expanding its offering through further moves,” McCann added.

In related news, there has been a long-term funding concern for the City of Derry Airport. In January, Derry City and Strabane District Council indicated that securing funds from Stormont to support the airport’s future was unlikely this year. The airport, owned by the council, costs ratepayers £3.45 million annually to cover operational expenses. The council has been facing a funding shortfall of approximately £729,000 for the next financial year.

Steve Frazer, in a recent interview with BBC Radio Foyle, mentioned that a decision regarding long-term funding is expected soon. “I have been involved in the talks and everyone can see the rationale,” Frazer said. “Everyone can see the council and the ratepayers of Derry City and Strabane have funded the airport for a long period, and that needs to shift to the central government where the benefits of the whole northwest in having the airport and the growth of the region can be achieved. I think the level of fairness will be achieved and the government will support us.”

This latest development with EasyJet is a significant milestone for the City of Derry Airport. It highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance regional connectivity and bolster economic growth in the North West. The introduction of these new routes aligns with broader efforts to improve travel options for both business and leisure travelers, ensuring that the region remains a vital hub for connectivity within the UK.

As the launch date approaches, anticipation is high among stakeholders and the community. The promise of enhanced travel options and the potential for increased economic activity underscore the importance of this new partnership between EasyJet and City of Derry Airport. This move not only marks a new chapter for the airport but also sets the stage for future growth and development in the region.

The City of Derry Airport, with its strategic location and expanding connectivity, is poised to play a crucial role in the region’s economic landscape. The collaboration with EasyJet is a testament to the airport’s potential and the ongoing efforts to maximize its impact on regional development. With the new routes set to begin soon, the North West can look forward to improved travel options and a boost to its economic prospects, marking a significant step forward for the community and the broader region.

This story was originally featured on BBC