Britten Norman BN-2B-26 Islander and the airline's operations
Pictures taken by Aer Arann Islands
Aer Arann Islands is an airline that operate a daily air taxi service to the islands of Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Óirr in the West of Ireland. They take off from Connemara Regional Airport daily which provides a direct link to these islands for locals, visitors and for many holiday goers. They often operate up to 25 flights daily during peak season as these islands are home to some of Ireland's hidden gems in terms of nature and culture. Each flight takes approximately 10 minutes and the airline also operate scenic flights and freight operations.
About the airline
Aer Arann Islands was sold by Pádraig Ó Céadigh to Aer Nasc in January 2020. The limited company is led by Jarlath Conneely, a Galway pilot. Aer Arann Islands used to be part of Aer Arann but is now completely independent.
Connemara Regional Airport, the airline's base, is a small airport located in the West of Ireland near Galway Bay. To get to the airport, you have to go through a beautiful scenic-drive before hopping on a plane to discover more of Ireland's stunning nature. The airline operate a fleet of two Britten Norman BN-2 aircraft. These aircraft are registered EI-CUW and EI-AYN and sit 9 passengers each.
The airline during the COVID-19 pandemic
Many regional airlines are currently struggling to continue flying during this pandemic. However, after contacting the Aer Arann Islands, they have said that they are still continuing operations. Their schedule has been reduced but the airline has been operating morning and evening flights to all three islands daily. This is sufficient to meet the needs of the island communities for now. Aer Arann Islands are adhering to COVID-19 guidelines and are only carrying essential workers. This includes nurses, doctors and islanders that have hospital appointments. All these passengers require Garda (Irish police force) clearance before travelling with the airline. The airline hope to increase their operations as soon as the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and their demand begins to grow.
In terms of medical equipment and food, they are being transported both by air and ferry. Aer Arann Islands' fleet have acting as freighter aircraft, carrying medicines, essential cargo, mail and food products to islands daily.
How will the airline deal with lack of tourism this year due to the crisis?
The airline is very popular during the summer months due to the Arann Islands and the Wild Atlantic Way. These areas have become attractive as holiday destinations and the reasonably priced flights to the islands take up interest to many visitors. Therefore, the airline is extremely hopeful that there will be an increase in the number of Irish people taking holiday breaks within Ireland this year.
Aer Arann Island was founded in 1970 which means that they are celebrating their 50 year anniversary in August 2020. The airline has brilliant experience in operating flights to the Arann Islands for almost 50 years now. As a result, they are currently in a relatively strong position. The airline has systems in place so that they won't only survive this pandemic but will grow into the future!
The regional carrier does not only hold the features of a modern airline but has a unique relationship with their passengers and in particular, their island communities. They receive a large amount of gratitude on social media and through thank you cards. Their staff goes above and beyond the call of duty in looking after the requirements of those who travel with the airline. Therefore, Aer Arann Islands deserve much more recognition for their fantastic work, not only during this pandemic but for their operations in general. Over the past 50 years the airline has become an integral part of the fabric of the island communities and the West of Ireland!
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