Aer Arann wins tourism excellence award

Aer Arann received the award for Excellence in Hospitality/Tourism at the Waterford Chamber / VHI Healthcare 2007 series of Business Excellence Awards.

Aer Arann were recognised on a local level for their commitment to excellence for Hospitality/Tourism businesses, alongside local Waterford businesses in manufacturing, retail, and services.

On receiving the Award Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing for Aer Arann said: ‘It’s great that our initiatives in Waterford are being noted. 2007 has been the busiest ever for Aer Arann since the airline began operating commercial flights from Waterford Airport in 2003. Our decision last May to open up a base, creating up to 45 new jobs, to cater for the increased activity at Waterford has been truly vindicated. The people of the South-East have really responded – Aer Arann’s passenger numbers out of Waterford Airport are up a whopping 36% year to date 2007, compared to 2006.

Graham Doyle, Chief Executive of Waterford Airport, said: “I’m delighted that Aer Arann has been recognised with this award by the local business community. Aer Arann’s base, new routes, better frequency and timings on existing routes coupled with Waterford airport’s convenient location have all resulted in greater flexibility for people in the Southeast. I wish them continuing success in Waterford”.

Waterford Chamber of Commerce President Andrew O’Neill acknowledged and congratulated the recipients for their hard work and the pride which they take in their business. “It is fantastic to see this commitment to quality in Waterford industry and long may it continue”.