AER ARANN is to cease operating flights under its own name. The airline will switch the flights its operates under its own brand into the Aer Lingus regional franchise service that it has operated since March 2010. The move is expected to be announced next week.
Flights that will switch include the State-subsidised public service obligation Dublin-Kerry route, and flights from Waterford to Birmingham, London Southend, London Luton, Lorient and Manchester.
It is understood that a new route from Dublin to London Southend is also being planned under the Aer Lingus Regional banner. The English airport is owned by transport and logistics group Stobart, a major shareholder in Aer Arann since it emerged from examinership in 2010.
On Tuesday, Aer Lingus signalled an expansion of the regional network with Aer Arann but declined to provide details. This will not involve it taking a stake in Aer Arann.
Under the terms of the partnership, Aer Arann provides the turbo-prop aircraft and crew. The flights are operated under the Aer Lingus brand while seats are sold via that airline’s website.
Aer Arann was controlled by Galway businessman Pádraig Ó Céidigh until it entered examinership in 2010. He still retains an involvement with the airline.