By Q Radio News
Finance Minister, Conor Murphy has announced up to £7.8million is being made available for Belfast International and Belfast City Airport.
Speaking after the Executive today the Minister said this was in addition to the 12 month rates support already provided to Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport.
Outlining the funding, Conor Murphy said: “The aviation sector has been severely impacted by Covid-19. Our airports and airlines have seen an unprecedented drop in demand with passenger numbers not expected to return to pre-Covid levels in the short-term.
“The pandemic has led to dramatically scaled back operations, reduced operating hours and significant financial losses. Airports and airlines are a critical part of our economic structure and it is vital they are supported to ensure connectivity for citizens and freight is maintained.
“This support package builds on the recent allocation of £1.23million to City of Derry Airport and the £3.1million financial package provided to airports in May.”
Belfast International Airport was forced to close recently on certain days during the most recent lockdown in a bid to save money when commercial flights weren't operating.
Graham Keddie, the Managing Director of the airport welcomed the funding announcement:
“The Executive’s financial support package is a much needed lifeline that will help ensure we remain open 24/7 and can continue to keep Northern Ireland connected.
“Covid has had a devastating impact on our sector and this announcement will help secure jobs across our site.
“It will also enable us to continue to provide cover and support for all medical emergency flights, the Royal Mail, cargo operations for all online purchases as well as facilitating all PSNI and MoD flights.
“We would especially like to thank both Conor Murphy and Diane Dodds for their tireless efforts in securing this funding as well as the Executive for delivering it.”
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