asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that last week two jet planes on a journey from the United States to Shannon by-passed Shannon and flew to Dublin Airport for a safe landing and immediate repair and overhaul; if this practice is likely to continue; why facilities are not available at Shannon similar to those which appear to be available at Dublin; if as a result of these events Aer Lingus has been put to expense, and, if so, what amount; and if the problem will be examined with a view to equipping Shannon for all such jet emergency landings.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Jet Repair Facilities at Shannon Airport.
23.
I am aware that on 19th and 20th June, 1962 two Aerlinte jet aircraft from New York overflew Shannon to land at Dublin. In both cases, difficulties had been experienced in flight and the pilots concerned decided to fly direct to Dublin where the Company maintains its main jet engineering base.
Duplication at Shannon and at Dublin of expensive overhaul equipment would not be justified. There was no question in either of these instances of flying to Dublin for reasons of safety in landing; Shannon is fully equipped to highest international standards for all emergency aircraft landings.