Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 266: To ask the Minister for Transport his views regarding the decision by Aer Lingus to suspend transatlantic services from Shannon Airport for three months next winter; if he was informed in advance of this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26766/10]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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I regret the decision of Aer Lingus to suspend transatlantic services from Shannon for 11 weeks in winter 2010/11. However, I am satisfied from a meeting I had with the Aer Lingus CEO on 15 June 2010 that the airline is maintaining employment at the airport and I welcome the fact that Aer Lingus has reiterated its commitment to the Shannon market. The CEO also advised me that the decision to suspend services for 11 weeks (when seasonal demand is at its lowest) would help maintain the viability of the transatlantic services throughout the remainder of the year.

I understand that the decision was made following a detailed review of route profitability and that, since 1995, Aer Lingus has lost a total of €163 million on its transatlantic flights from Shannon during the winter months with an average operating loss per winter season of almost €11 million. I am encouraged to note that two other carriers (Delta and Continental) are expected to continue to provide regular connectivity from Shannon to the US during winter 2010/2011, availing of Shannon's US preclearance facilities.