Big Apple an in demand destination
New York is by far the most in demand new direct destination from Cork Airport.
That’s according to a new survey from Cork Chamber, in cooperation with Cork Airport, which asked businesses about their current travel patterns and future route preferences.
The survey found: • 86% of businesses stated that direct air access to Cork Airport is very important for overseas colleagues • The Americas was the final destination for 75% of all long-haul trips taken by businesses. • Respondents said that New York was their most desired airport for future connectivity from Cork. • Over half of businesses said the UK was the most important short haul destination for doing business, just ahead of mainland Europe.
London Heathrow comes out as the top European hub airport with 65% of respondents ranking it number 1, and the UK as the top business destination, followed by Amsterdam Schiphol. Paris Charles de Gaulle was ranked as the third most preferred European hub for direct connectivity and onward travel, with a direct seasonal service resuming in March and running through the summer months, there is clear indication of demand for a year-round service. Commenting on the findings, Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber said: “The results of this survey are undeniable. International connectivity is of critical importance to business activity in Cork, including to the FDI sector, indigenous enterprise, and tourism.
"While this has been recognised with the introduction of several new routes last year, further routes to key business locations will be required to support continued economic growth in the Cork region.
Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director at Cork Airport said: “Cork Airport greatly values the partnership with Cork Chamber and respects the input which Cork Chamber members provide us with regard to business demand.
“We are very pleased with the recovery to date which will see 48 scheduled routes operating from Cork Airport, served by 8 scheduled airlines and we expect to welcome over 2.4 million passengers in 2023.”