asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state at what date the new jet runways at Shannon Airport are due to be completed, and if it is anticipated that they will be ready in time to take the first jet aircraft to cross the Atlantic.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Jet Runways.
The new runway to be constructed at Shannon is expected to be available for use early in 1960. It is not yet possible to say whether the large jet aircraft will come into operation over the Atlantic before that time.
The existing main runway will cater for smaller jet aircraft expected to come into operation over the Atlantic towards the end of this year.
Could the Minister say whether he has had representations from any of the air companies in regard to the possible delay in completion of the runway?
I cannot say that I have. It is still a matter of uncertainty as to when these large jet aircraft will be in general use. At any rate, the runways are being constructed as rapidly as possible and there is nothing else that can be done about it.