Commencing on 01 April 2010, the new service will bring wider holiday choice to the region for Summer 2010. Speaking after the announcement, Mayor Councillor Paul Fleming said it offered passengers more choice and convenience.

"This is a positive development for the airport and offers passengers the opportunity to fly direct to international destinations from their local airport. The direct link to Portugal provides passengers with more choice and greater convenience and will be a popular destination for holidaymakers from across the region," he said.

Faro, is situated in the south of Portugal and is a popular location for holidaymakers looking for a spring or summer break in the Algarve. It is situated close to a number of popular resorts such as Albufeira, Vilamora, Alvor and Lagos and is expected to be a very popular choice for holidaymakers locally who are interested in a beach holiday, a cultural experience or a golfing break.

Chairperson of the Airport Committee, Councillor Colum Eastwood said: "This is a positive new service and it's great to offer more value and choice for everyone in the region. This scheduled international flight to Portugal signals a positive development for the airport and is a confident statement of the opportunities that exist for the airport and the region".

Airport Manager, Damien Tierney added: "Ryanair have been providing services to the region for 10 years and recorded over 2million passengers during this period and this is a positive step for the airport and region".

The City of Derry Airport also provides direct services to Glasgow Prestwick, Birmingham, London Stansted, London Luton, Liverpool & Dublin. It also provides international flight over the summer months to Alicante as well as summer charter flights to Majorca and Salou.