Flights to London from Waterford Airport would be "an excellent starting point" - News - Waterford News & Star

A local councillor said that flights to London would be starting point

Darragh Murphy A politician based in the south-east has spoken about what he hopes Waterford Airport can achieve for the region.

Tipperary based councillor, John O’Heney, said recently that the airport represents a major opportunity not only for Waterford, but for the wider region.

He added that a connection to London would be an “excellent starting point” while future routes further afield are actively pursued.

Major works to lengthen and widen the airport runway are ongoing, and William Bolster, Chief Executive at Waterford Airport, said in recent weeks that discussions with airline companies have commenced.

Cllr O’Heney said that the ongoing runway extension at Waterford Airport is a “significant milestone and one that has the potential to deliver lasting benefits not just for Waterford, but for Tipperary and the wider South East.”

He added that he has had discussions with the Irish Aviation Authority about the role Waterford Airport can play in improving regional connectivity.

“It is important that Tipperary is recognised as a key part of the airport's catchment, with businesses, tourists and local communities all set to benefit from better access to air travel.

“Once the runway project is completed, the priority must be attracting airlines and re-establishing scheduled passenger services. A connection to London would be an excellent starting point, opening up opportunities for both business and leisure travel, while future routes to other UK and European destinations should also be actively pursued.

Cllr O’Heney added: “Reliable regional air links can help drive economic growth, support tourism, encourage inward investment and provide greater travel options for people across Tipperary. This is an opportunity we should fully embrace, and I will continue working to ensure our county benefits from the development of Waterford Airport.”