Ryanair arrival ‘good for retail sector’

The return of Irish budget air carrier Ryanair to Belfast will see a spending boost in the retail sector, it has been claimed.

The Irish airline announced this week it is to operate a new base at Belfast International Airport from March with flights to London’s Gatwick Airport.

Five other yet to be confirmed routes will follow in October.

A total of three aircraft will be based in Belfast, operating the route to London Gatwick four times a day. The company said it believes some one million customers will use the flights throughout the year.

Graham Keddie, MD of Belfast International Airport, said the move was “significant” and “far-reaching”.

“The Gatwick slots given up by Aer Lingus as part of the IAG takeover, are being safeguarded and used for the benefit of Northern Ireland.

“Gatwick is growing in popularity, and it was crucial to retain them. In addition, the promise of three based aircraft and five more new routes to be announced later in the year increases Northern Ireland’s ‘reach’ and gives Belfast International a competitive edge.”

Mr Keddie added it would represent a “major inward investment” without straining public finances.

“It will deliver thousands of new visitors and hundreds of welcome new jobs,” he said.

Chief executive of the Northern Ireland Retail Traders Association, Glyn Roberts, also welcomed Ryanair’s arrival.

“This is good news for our local economy and in particular, our retail sector. More air routes mean more visitors and tourists, which is a boost to spending in our retail sector in Northern Ireland.”