| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 23/04/01 |
| Author: | Page Number: 32 |
| Copyright: Other |
Foot and mouth epidemic
Aer Lingus launches World Beater seat sale
AER Lingus has launched a massive seat sale in an attempt to lure tourists back to Ireland.
The carrier has been badly hit by the foot and mouth epidemic and has seen bookings slump by 20%.
Last week the airline announced its first profits warning in five years, with profits expected to fall from £47 million last year to £11.8 million this year (Travel Weekly April 16).
The World Beater sale will offer passengers travelling from Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow return fares to Dublin for £69 inclusive of tax. Passengers departing from London City Airport, Gatwick and Heathrow will be able to fly to Dublin, Cork and Shannon also for £69 inclusive.
The booking slot closes on May 8, but outward travel is permitted until June 20 and return travel must be completed by July 13. The carrier has introduced a similar fare initiative in the US.
An Aer Lingus spokesman said: “These attractive rates, coupled with the easing of certain foot and mouth restrictions in recent weeks, should help increase tourism numbers in the coming months.”
He said the sale will help boost both the number of people flying with Aer Lingus and the public’s confidence in the airline, which is currently involved in industrial disputes with staff.