The service between Sligo and Dublin was officially reopened this morning, nine months after the Euroceltic Airways decided to cancel the route.
Aer Arann, which will operate the new route, expects to carry 25,00 passengers this year, with fares ranging between €69 and €80 for monthly and day returns.
Speaking at the launch this morning, the Minister for Transport, Mr Séamus Brennan, said the new contract will run until next year and would give the Government the time to establish a more permanent arrangement for the North West
Minister Brennnan said he was "particularly glad to welcome Aer Arann Express" as the official carrier on the route and that its resumption would stimulate business and tourism industries in the West.