Delta marks 30 years of flying Shannon-New York route

DELTA Airlines crew celebrated this week as the airline marked 30 years of flying from Shannon to New York .

The Shannon to JFK service commenced operations on May 8, 1986, and was Delta’s first Irish flight. In 2015, Delta carried 43,000 passengers, and it is expected to carry even more in 2016, according to Nat Pieper, who is the senior vice-president of Europe, Middle East and Africa.

He said that they were “proud” to celebrate 30 years, adding that, this year, there was a 38% jump in weekly flights. 

Shannon Group active CEO, Mary Considine said the aiport was “hugely proud” to be Delta’s first Irish destination.

“The connectivity to the US provided by Delta over the past 30 years has been, and continues to be, pivotal for business and in-bound tourism. Delta’s New York-JFK service provides us with a vital gateway to reach global export markets, attracts foreign direct investment and brings international visitors to the west of Ireland – all of which help drive economic activity,” she said.

Ms Considine congratulated Delta, adding that she looks forward to assisting its future growth.