Vueling – the Spanish low fares airline owned by IAG – is pulling out of Cork and is expected to also cease its services at Shannon Airport.
The airline has a twice weekly route to Paris Orly Airport from both Cork and Shannon.
A spokesperson for Cork Airport was quoted as saying: “Vueling will cease operations from Cork to Paris (Orly), with the last flight operating on June 11th. Cork Airport understands that the rationale behind the cessation of services is attributable to capacity issues in Paris (Orly), with the Cork – Paris (Orly) service being one of three routes that will cease operating.”
Vueling is owned by IAG – which also owns Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia and Air Europa.
According to reports over the weekend, Vueling is now expected to cease operations at Shannon in June. Cork Airport said services to Paris will now be filled by Air France and Aer Lingus.
Speaking to The Irish Times, Clare Independent TD Michael McNamara said: “This is very disappointing and underlines the transitory nature of route selection by airlines. It highlights the challenges posed for smaller airports like Shannon in securing and retaining routes to major cities and key hubs.
“International connectivity is critical to Shannon Airport and the Midwest, and I hope that another airline will consider stepping in to operate what appeared to be a popular service for people in the region and beyond.”
