City of Derry Airport an ‘essential economic driver’ - Derry MLA
Sinn Féin MLA Pádraig Delargy has said the City of Derry Airport is an essential economic driver for the north and the north-west.
Mr Delargy’s comments come after a year in which new routes have been secured and opened and a Dublin route announced for the Eglinton facility.
The Foyle MLA, who asked the Economy Minister about the airport recently, said: “I welcome the support from the Economy Minister for the City of Derry Airport. The City of Derry Airport is an essential economic driver for the north and the north-west.
“The airport serves as a gateway for the north and the north-west area by connecting it to London, Manchester, Glasgow and other key cities.
“The recent announcement from the Irish government to restore the Dublin to Derry route is also good news as it will ensure that Derry is connected across the island.
“This is vital in terms of supporting businesses and tourism and plays a key role in improving regional balance by ensuring that the north-west shares in the economic and social benefits.
“Sinn Féin ministers will continue working to drive regional balance and ensure communities in the north can see and feel positive change.”
City of Derry Airport now has routes to London Heathrow, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester with international connecting flights right around the world also now offered. Special flights to Verona, Medjugore and Lourdes also operate from the facility.
The commencement of a Dublin to Derry airlink was one of the measures announced by the Irish government as it delivered its Budget 2026 back in October.
Welcoming the news that fights between City of Derry Airport and Dublin Airport are set to recommence, Derry’s Chamber of Commerce CEO, Anna Doherty, said at the time: “Today’s announcement by the Irish Government that funding will be provided for re-opening the flight route between Derry and Dublin is very welcome news.
“The restoration of the Dublin route will provide crucial connectivity for the North West, opening up new opportunities for trade, investment and growth across our region.
“The City of Derry Airport acts as a key gateway for tourism and connectivity in the North West, and this flight route being restored for the first time since 2011 has the potential to be an economic catalyst for our region.”