The Irish Aviation Authority has confirmed the aviation licence for Galway Airport has been extended for a further month, according to Fianna Fáil city councillor Peter Keane.
Cllr Keane, who has continually fought for the retention of the licence, welcomed the confirmation, saying it would be a “travesty for the city if the license was returned to the IAA, as had been expected”.
Cllr Keane said: "I welcome this decision by the IAA to extend the aviation licence. This gives both local authorities the necessary time to complete the purchase of the Carnmore facility and keeps all options open with regard to the operation of an airport at the facility.
“ It would be a scandal for the local authorities to allow a cessation of the licence without first first examining all options for the future operation of the airport, and if nothing else this buys time for all the options to be assessed.”
Cllr Keane confirmed that he was aware of interested parties who were keen to operate an aerodrome at the Carnmore facility and he was keen to stress that this option would protect the future of Medivac, Air Ambulance and Air Sea Rescue using the facility, which is essential from a service and refuelling perspective.
Cllr Keane concluded: "It is now imperative that all steps are taken by the city manager in conjunction with his counterpart in the county to ensure the long-term viability of the facility with a full aerodrome service.”
