Government policy on the level of air fares to and from Ireland is that they should be at least as competitive as those for countries with whom we compete in international markets. Both Aer Lingus and Ryanair accept this policy and act accordingly in setting fare levels. In this connection, the Deputy should note that I have recently approved a reduction in Aer Lingus fares on European routes, including Germany and Switzerland, which match the reductions to which the Deputy refers.
My Department constantly monitor European fares charged by our airlines to ensure Government policy is adhered to.
As the Deputy is aware, there are literally hundreds of fares for routes in and out of Ireland and corresponding numbers for other European routes. I have had compiled a sample list of air fares from London, Amsterdam and Frankfurt to Dublin and a number of other major points in Europe. The fares chosen for comparison are the executive class and the cheapest promotional fare available on the particular route. The comparisons are made on a rate per mile basis which not only reflect airline costs and efficiency but also factors such as route charges, landing charges, fuel efficiency, load factors, passenger mixes etc.
It will be seen from this table, which I propose to circulate in the Official Report, that air fares to Ireland from these points compare favourably with fares to other destinations.
Roundtrip Fares Comparison
