asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether Aer Lingus has any plans for extending its air freight business.
17.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aer Lingus Freight Traffic.
15.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether Aer Lingus has any plans to acquire any new all-cargo aircraft; and, if not, why.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 17 together.
The expansion of freight traffic is a matter which is under continuous review by the air companies.
The annual report of the companies for the year ended 31st March, 1969 says: "Cargo traffic has developed at a very satisfactory rate in recent years. In 1968-69 cargo carried on Aer Lingus services exceeded 33,600 tons and was 23 per cent higher than the 1967-68 level. We expect further increases and to cater for this we will introduce specialised Boeing 737 quick change aircraft later in 1969-70... Aerlinte cargo traffic increased by almost two-thirds in 1968-69 to reach 8,100 tons."
Could we have an assurance from the Minister that the facilities for cargo handling at the airport will be improved with the development in air freight generally?
That is being done at the moment.
In addition to the passenger handling facilities?
Yes.
16.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power the total amount of freight carried by Aer Lingus to and from (a) the United Kingdom, (b) Europe and (c) North America in each of the last four financial years.
As the reply is in the form of a tabular statement, I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to circulate it with the Official Report.
Following is the statement:
|
(000 kilos) |
||||||
|
Year |
Ireland/ United Kingdom |
United Kingdom/ Ireland |
Ireland/ Europe |
Europe/ Ireland |
Ireland/ North America |
North America Ireland |
|
1966-67 |
5,790 |
11,726 |
298 |
527 |
1,763 |
2,416 |
|
1967-68 |
6,099 |
12,435 |
459 |
610 |
1,998 |
2,547 |
|
1968-69 |
7,273 |
14,242 |
541 |
729 |
3,762 |
3,611 |
|
1969-70 |
7,709 |
15,384 |
691 |
1,010 |
4,279 |
4,638 |