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| Aer Arann commence new jet routes to Malaga and Faro from Galway and Waterford Airports |
07th May - Aer Arann launched their new jet services to the sun destinations of Malaga and Faro from Galway and Waterford airports last weekend. These new Aer Arann jet routes provide customers with the convenience of direct services between the South East and Western regions of Ireland to the summer sun destinations of Spain and Portugal.
The Aer Arann Faro and Malaga services have been met with strong demand from passengers looking for sunshine and the convenience of travelling from their local airport. In addition to the twice weekly Faro and Malaga flights, Aer Arann has also launched their Amsterdam service, flying four times weekly from Galway and Waterford. Later this month, Aer Arann will further expand their schedule with services to Bordeaux and Lorient from both airports.
Garry Cullen, Managing Director, Aer Arann said, “Spain and Portugal are popular destinations for Irish sun seekers. Aer Arann’s flights to Malaga and Faro provide summer sun destinations direct from Galway and Waterford Airports. They have proven very popular, as the first flights over the May Bank holiday weekend were almost full”.
Managing Director of Galway Airport, Joe Walsh said, “Aer Arann’s expansion into Europe enables Galway Airport to provide a well rounded service to those in the Western region. The sun destinations of Malaga and Faro compliment the recent addition of the Amsterdam service from Galway and with further routes to France launching this month there is a great variety of destinations available.”
Waterford Airport’s CEO Graham Doyle said, “The new flights to Spain and Portugal have greatly widened the network of travel for those in the South East. These are terrific destinations for those planning their summer getaway and allow holiday makers to begin their travels early by setting off from their local airport.”
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| Aer Arann introduced improved schedule for Cork business passengers, adds Edinburgh frequencies, re-commences Cork-Southampton |
06th May - Aer Arann today launched a new improved schedule on the Cork-Dublin route. This new schedule is in response to passenger demand for an improved choice of timings in the morning. Aer Arann has reintroduced an 8am departure, flight number RE604, arriving in Dublin at 8.55am. Cork passengers can now choose from 7am and 8am departures for flights to Dublin.
Said Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing: ‘This improved schedule allows passengers the choice of two flights before 9am. Aer Arann is the best value airline on the Dublin Cork routes, as it is the only airline on the route offering the following combination:
*Five flights a day
*No Baggage Charges
* No Check-in Fees
* Shortest check-in time in Ireland: 30 minutes
* Zero change fees on Dublin-Cork route – all tickets can be changed for free on the day
* Allocated seating – no scrums to get your seat
* Complimentary Tea/Coffee and a newspaper onboard every flight
Aer Arann is also adding extra frequencies from Cork to Edinburgh: there are now two flights per day on Friday and Sunday. The Cork-Southampton route is re-introduced, with one flight a day, four days a week.
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| Aer Arann has best ever May bank Holiday uplift |
05th May - Aer Arann carried almost 20,000 passengers over the May Bank Holiday, 15% ahead of the May Bank holiday weekend last year. Amsterdam, London and Edinburgh were the most popular citybreak destinations, and Faro and Malaga the most popular sun destinations.
Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, Colin Lewis said: “Bookings for the May bank holiday weekend are well ahead of last year. Our first flights to Amsterdam, Faro and Malaga took place this weekend, and they are really proving popular with customers. Ireland needs to prepare for a Dutch invasion as well, as bookings show a huge level of interest in our inbound flights from Amsterdam’.
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| Blooming Marvellous! Aer Arann commence new route to Amsterdam from Waterford & Galway |
01st May - Aer Arann has launched their new Amsterdam route from Galway and Waterford Airport today. The launch was marked with celebrations hosted by the regional airports. The new Aer Arann route will provide its customers with the convenience of direct services between the West and the Southeast to mainland Europe and beyond.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a global gateway for over 290 destinations with 50 million passengers passing through every year. Since the announcement of the new route in January, seat sales have exceeded expectation.
Garry Cullen, Managing Director, Aer Arann said, “Aer Arann is proud to be expanding its services from Galway and Waterford. We see this new route to Amsterdam as further evidence of Aer Arann’s commitment to the development of the regions. We are particularly delighted with the level of bookings on our inbound flights from Amsterdam. Aer Arann is showing that we can bring new untapped tourism markets to the South-East and to the West of Ireland.”
Managing Director of Galway Airport, Joe Walsh said, “Aer Arann and Galway Airport offer the only service from Amsterdam to the West of Ireland. The accessibility afforded to the western region with the introduction of this new route is fundamental to the continued development of the region”.
Graham Doyle, Chief Executive, Waterford Airport said, “Aer Arann’s new routes from Waterford to mainland Europe are a terrific boost for both the airport and the region. In particular, having a direct route to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, one of the busiest and best connected in Europe, provides a gateway that is invaluable to the development of the Southeast region.”
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| Going Dutch! Aer Arann delivers Dutch tourists to the West from the first flight! |
24th April - Going Dutch! Aer Arann delivers Dutch tourists to the West from the first flight!
With the new Amsterdam Schiphol route from Galway and Waterford set to commence 1st May, Aer Arann is reporting its first flight from the Amsterdam airport already has 50% of its passengers on the flights originating in Holland.
Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, Colin Lewis said: “The route from Amsterdam to Galway has experience unprecedented demand in the run up to the routes commencement. The flights start next Thursday, and each flight for the first weekend has almost 50% of its passenger coming from Holland. This is a great achievement considering it is a brand new route, and the first ever route from Amsterdam to the West. This is great news for Galway and further confirms the western region as a popular destination for visitors from Europe”.
Managing Director of Galway Airport, Joe Walsh said “We are thrilled that Aer Arann is having such success with this new route. The strength of their passenger numbers flying to Galway is terrific news for the region and for the industries that are dependent on tourism.”
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| Aer Arann are propelling the green message by pledging a tree per passenger on World Earth Day |
22nd April - To mark World Earth Day, Aer Arann has pledged to donate one tree for every passenger booking with them on the day through the charity Bothar. Aer Arann expects to sponsor a minimum of 5,000 trees. Aer Arann’s Commercial Director, Fergal Barry said: “This is Aer Arann putting its ‘green’ foot forward. We acknowledge the environmental concerns of our passengers and we want them to know that we do care with this gesture of support for World Earth Day.”
Aer Arann already has the greenest aircraft fleet in Ireland. Aer Arann's decisions to update and renew our fleet with ATR’s new generation 72-500 turboprop aircraft represents the most environmentally sound choice for flyers.
Barry stated “Aer Arann has recently invested €180 million in a new fleet of ATR 72-500’s. Our new ATR turboprop aircraft are recognized as the most fuel efficient aircraft in their category, emitting 20% less CO2 per kilometre than newer jets, and using up to 70 per cent less fuel than a similar-sized jet on the same length flight. Our ATR 72-500s uses as much fuel on a typical 370km sector as a Boeing 747 uses in ten minutes of taxiing.”
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| Aer Arann serving Craggy Island from Luton, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh |
18th Feb - Book flights with Aer Arann, go on, go on, go on….
Followers of Father Ted will be making a pilgrimage to the hallowed Craggy Island later this month to pay homage to their hero at the official Ted Fest.They will be winging their way with Aer Arann, one of Europe’s fastest growing regional airlines. Aer Arann is pleased to announce it is an official Ted Fest Travel Partner.
Colin Lewis, head of sales and marketing at Aer Arann confirms “The bishop doesn’t know yet, but we will be transporting priests, nuns and lovely girls to the Aran Islands”.The festival takes place in two locations, inland Ireland at the town of Kilfenora (25-27 February), and on the Aran Island of Inis Mor (29 February – 2 March). Celebrations on Inis Mor will celebrate the island’s alias of ‘Craggy Island’, starting with a cabaret night, and leading onto ‘Sporting’ Saturday and ‘Spiritual’ Sunday.
There will be plenty of goings on (go on, go on, go on) including Dermot Morgan Memorial Priests and Nuns 5-a-side, the ‘Lovely Girls Competition’, and every punter’s favourite – ‘Dunk the Monk in the World’s Biggest Cup of Tea’ Aer Arann is proud to sponsor this particular occasion – “it has been ten years since Father Ted had its last hurrah with the filming of the final episode, we are glad to be blessed with the prestige of being an official carrier a decade later” adds Colin Lewis.
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| Love is in the aer with Aer Arann |
14th Feb - Leap over to Ireland with Aer Arann’s top romantic destinations
Aer Arann, one of Europe’s fastest growing regional airlines, encourages all women; brave enough to propose on 29 February this leap year, to think Ireland as the place to pop the question for 2008. From lush green landscapes and ancient castles to bustling cities and sparkling coastlines, Ireland offers romance, intrigue and breathtaking opportunities. For proposals, weddings or honeymoons leap over to Ireland and fall in love with its striking cities including Sligo, Galway and Waterford.
The Place of Shells
The adventure minded romantic should head straight to Sligo; its nearby beaches offer some of the best surfing around and the beautiful sunsets will provide the ideal romantic backdrop for a proposal. To woo your man whisk him away to one of the many golf clubs or try a shellfish dinner in town as Sligo literally translates as ‘the place of shells’.
Rugged Romance
Be blown away by Galway and its rugged coastlines or hop over to the nearby Aran Islands. The bustling city of Galway is home to the famous Galway races and Oyster festival and is the nearest city to one of the most romantic dwellings in Ireland. Ashford Castle was the venue of choice for Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith when they tied the knot. The castle has over 350 acres of beautiful wooded parkland, lakes for fishing, a falconry and a health and beauty spa. This is the ultimate venue for leap day proposals.
Crystal Clear
Waterford, famous for its crystal, has a medieval flavour having been established in Viking times. Its cobbled streets and active marina are perfect for romantic walks and the city is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. The nearby beaches have an exotic feel to them, ideal if you fancy returning for a beach wedding.
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| Waterford Chamber announced Aer Arann as overall winner |
8th Feb - Waterford Chamber announced Aer Arann as overall winner for Business Excellence in the Tourism/Hospitality category. Aer Arann were recognised on a local level for their commitment to excellence for Hospitality/Tourism, alongside local Waterford businesses in manufacturing, retail, and services.
On receiving the award, Fergal Barry, Commercial Director for Aer Arann, said: “We are delighted to be recognised for our initiatives in Waterford and our commitment to the South East region. 2007 was a year of record growth for Aer Arann with rapid expansion of our route network and passenger numbers in excess of 1.15 million, a 10% increase over 2006. Aer Arann also recently added four new routes to its network out of Waterford: Amsterdam, Bordeaux, Malaga and Faro. These routes will commence on 1st May 2008. This brings to eight the number of routes offered by Aer Arann from Waterford this summer – with a choice of weekend, holiday and business destinations and excellent opportunities for onward connections, particularly through Schiphol, one of Europe’s main hubs.”
In his speech Deputy Mayor Cllr. Tom Cunningham praised all nominees commenting that it is businesses of this calibre that drive the development of Waterford and commended Chamber and VHI Healthcare on their recognition of local excellence.
Chamber President Andrew O’Neill also acknowledged the pivotal role which these businesses play in Waterford’s growth and commended each of the 16 nominees. He also thanked VHI Healthcare for their great support and commented that he looked forward to their continued backing as Waterford Chamber develops the promotion of excellence in business over the years ahead.
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| St Patrick's Day Festivities - Aer Arann’s top spots to be on 17 March this year |
3rd Feb - Be a part of the wonderful festivities this St. Patrick’s Day and celebrate with a trip to the Emerald Isle. See Ireland truly come alive with an explosion of fun and entertainment that’s sure to rival any carnival street party with lavish parades, street theatre and music galore.
Try your luck in the wild west of Galway – this seaside city will this year be hosting its 105th St Patrick’s Day Parade and the carnival atmosphere always draws strong crowds. Performers from all over the world will boost the entertainment, and when the parade is over find a place to eat in the city that has more restaurants per capita than any other Irish city.
Experience the wonderful charm of Ireland and the Irish in Cork. The newly refurbished Cork City centre has attractive shopping boulevards, restaurants and pubs. With over 600 retail outlets located around Patrick Street you will be spoilt for choice. Cork is renowned for its cuisine - indulge in some of its famed delights at Barry’s Tea Market held in conjunction with Mahon Point Farmers Market on Emmet Place.
St Patrick’s Day in Dublin has a phenomenal five days and five nights of celebrations to contend with, starting from 13 March until the actual day on 17 March. From the opening night celebrations to the parade on the last day, there is certainly a lot to keep punters amused in between.
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| Aer Arann Announces Record Growth In 2007 |
28th Jan - Ireland ’s regional airline continues to gain momentum in Irish, UK and French markets, generating record numbers in major airports, gaining market share in the UK and successfully initiating its fleet replacement programme with the ATR 72-500 ‘Green Machine’. The management team is poised for continued growth in 2008, with the following highlights:
- Record growth
- Turnover in excess of €100 million per annum, a 6% increase over 2006
- Passenger numbers in excess of 1.15 million, a 10% increase over 2006
- 600 flights per week across 40 routes in Ireland, UK and France
- Outlook strong: high load factors and continued growth in 2008
New routes - 2007
Aer Arann continued to expand its network at a rapid rate in 2007 with the announcement of six new regional routes from Cardiff, Bristol, Manchester, Newcastle and Birmingham. Fergal Barry, Commercial Director with Aer Arann commented: “Our growth strategy is focused on improving connectivity from the regions whilst providing exemplary customer service. Our new routes have allowed Aer Arann to broaden its customer base from visiting friends and relatives traffic to the wider UK leisure and business customer. Our new routes in 2007 surpassed our expectations and we expect our 2008 new routes to yield similar success.”
Record Traffic
In the year ending December 2007, Aer Arann carried in excess of 1.15m passengers, the highest figure recorded to date and an increase of 9900% from 12,000 passengers in 1999. This is also a considerable achievement given that Aer Arann only commenced regular scheduled traffic in 1998.
In 2007, the Dublin Airport Authority announced that Aer Arann was the third largest operator into Dublin Airport, carrying almost 800,000 passengers through the airport in one year. Aer Arann is now bigger than Air France, SAS, BA, Cityjet, Lufthansa, Delta, Iberia and Continental at Dublin Airport based on official passenger numbers published by the Dublin Airport Authority.
Aer Arann passenger figures reached an all time high in August 2007 where the airline carried 135,000 passengers in one month. The airline achieved an unprecedented 100% load factor for the bank holiday weekend in October 2007 on all our international routes.
In 2007, Aer Arann invested heavily in the UK market with a €1m campaign to raise awareness. Aer Arann’s numbers ex-UK has increased by almost 3% as a percentage of overall sales.
The Galway-London route moved 20% ahead of 2006. Increased passenger demand meant that Aer Arann increased frequency on this route to three flights a day – every day. Galway - London broke the 9,000 per month passenger barrier in August 2007, and is going from strength to strength. The Waterford - London route achieved 9,000 passengers per month by the third quarter. The new base in Waterford allowed Aer Arann to offer and improved schedule and new routes in the form of Waterford-Birmingham, which has proved a resounding success.
New fleet
As part of a £128 million investment, Aer Arann welcomed two of the ten ATR 72-500 ordered in May 2006. The new ATR 72-500 is the first of ten new aircraft to be delivered over the next two years. By 2009, all of the Aer Arann fleet will be brand new. The ATR 72-500 offers Aer Arann customers new levels of comfort and efficiency. Several factors combine to make the ATR an environmentally friendly aircraft: lower emissions of CO2 due to reduced fuel burn, 70% lower fuel consumption than a jet on similar routes, and new standards in the industry for quietness. The new aircraft has resulted in much improved customer experience, reliability and operational economics.
New base, new hangar
During May 2007, Aer Arann announced major expansion from Waterford airport through the opening of a new base with the creation of 45 new jobs. This is the fourth base Aer Arann has in Ireland adding to those in Dublin, Cork and Galway.
In June 2007, Aer Arann and Galway Airport announced the creation of 30 new jobs as result of a major expansion at the airport. A new purpose built hangar was built at Galway airport, which will house a new engineering base for Aer Arann. The new hangar and engineering base carries out most of its maintenance requirements for the airline.
Management Team
2007 was marked not only by excellent commercial progress, but also by considerable strengthening of the management teams. Aer Arann has been able to attract further high calibre management and staff. These appointments will strengthen the existing team and drive the Company's next phase of growth and planned internationalisation:
Notable appointments over the past year have been:
- Paul Schutz, Finance Director. Previously, Paul held senior finance roles with Ryanair, BWIA, Virgin Express and Eirjet.
- Fergal Barry, Commercial Director - former Finance Director, Aer Arann.
- Mick Conlon, Head of Engineering – former Engineering Manager, Aer Arann, and has held engineering roles in Ryanair, Qantas and the Irish AirCorps.
Ground handling savings
In May 2007, Aer Arann conducted a review of its ground handling operation in Dublin Airport. As a result, Aer Arann decided to transfer its check-in, boarding, dispatch and baggage tracing functions to Sky Handling during June. This resulted in significant cost savings for the airline, while maintaining high standards of service for our customers.
Aer Arann Policy on Green Issues
In 2007, many accusations were levelled against the airline industry and its effects on the environment. Aer Arann is committed to the principles of energy efficiency. In 2007, Aer Arann implemented specific policies, which both counter common industry practice and tackles public perceptions of the aviation industry being a significant contributor to global warming compared to other large polluter:
- Aer Arann believes consumers should have an environmental conscience when choosing how they travel and this will encourage the transport industry to become more environmentally accountable.
- Aircraft emissions are just 3% of EU CO2 emissions, according to EU. Secondly, Regional airlines - passenger airline services which provide services to smaller communities, account for just 12% of carbon dioxide attributed to airline emissions.
- Air taxation is not an effective way to tackle environmental issues, for example, the UK APD. Aer Arann believe that investment in technology by the transport industry is a more productive route, reducing the impact of transport without inhibiting travel
- The ability of regional airlines with turboprop engines, such as Aer Arann, to operate at lower altitudes means the ozone layer and upper atmosphere remain unaffected by them. Flying at lower altitudes also saves fuel and is less harmful to the environment.
For example: from Dublin to Cardiff, the distance is 300 kilometres or 163 nautical miles, Aer Arann’s ATRs consume around 550 kilos of fuel. A jet such as a Boeing 737-800 on the same route uses most of the fuel just for take-off - often using a ton of fuel just to reach cruising level. It takes three Aer Arann flights from Cardiff use the same amount of fuel as a Boeing 737 uses in one flight.
Aer Arann commissions new aircraft livery
To coincide with the arrival of the new aircraft, a new livery was commissioned. Inspired by Celtic rings, or triskels, from the ancient monuments at Newgrange in County Meath, DesignCorp have reinterpreted the traditional patterns and given them a modern and playful twist. The colour scheme incorporates refreshed and updated corporate colours, giving the aircraft a distinctive look.
Charter services
Aer Arann has also seen an increase in its charter services. The airline’s fleet of ATR aircraft of 72 and 50 seater aircraft offer the ideal number of seats for groups. The total number of passengers using Aer Arann's charter services totalled 198,000 in 2007. This includes both charter flights and wet lease flights. Aer Arann's prestigious client list included IRFU, Welsh Rugby Union, Munster, Leinster andConnacht Rugby, Sunderland Football Club, Kerry GAA, Galway United and the drivers and teams of the Rally Ireland round of the World Rally Championship.
Commenting Managing Director Garry Cullen said:
"2007 confirmed our expectations of strong growth, despite increased competition across all routes. Aer Arann's success is grounded on having the right management to maintain our momentum. 2008 will be a very exciting time for the airline, with considerable effort focussed on our franchise routes to Amsterdam, Bordeaux, Malaga and Faro, and extending the Aer Arann footprint into Europe."
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| Aer Arann launch new VIP programme for frequent travellers called ‘Silver Club’ |
28th Jan - Aer Arann today launched a new VIP programme, called Silver Club. This new programme is designed to recognise Aer Arann’s loyal customers and make their travel simpler and easier. Aer Arann Silver Club will be invitation only, and strictly for Aer Arann frequent flyers, who will get even more benefits for flying.
Right now, Aer Arann is the only airline offering customers:
- No Baggage Charges
- No Check-in Fees
- The lowest check-in time in Ireland: 30 minutes
- Zero change fees on Dublin-Cork route – all tickets can be changed for free on the day
- Allocated seating – no scrums to get your seat
- Complimentary Tea/Coffee and a news paper onboard every flight
Aer Arann Silver Club members will now receive in addition:
- Business lounge Access in Dublin and Cork Airport, where customers can relax or catch up on work before flights
- Recognition at check-in to ensure Silver Club members has the best seats on the aircraft
- Zero change fees on all routes
- Extra checked-in baggage allowance to 25kgs
- A designated Aer Arann Silver Club telephone number
- A unique booking section on aerarann.com, where Silver Club members will have the ability to book, track, report on, manage and change Aer Arann bookings.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing Aer Arann, said: “Aer Arann has launched the Silver Club as recognition of the loyalty of our customers. Silver Club is very simple for members to operate: there are no tiers, no points to count and no complexity. We believe Silver Club will make our customers’ lives easier, reducing the hassle of travel, and enhancing the door to door experience”.
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| Aer Arann Announces Flights to La Rochelle from Cork |
28th Jan - Aer Arann today announced a new route from Cork to La Rochelle, adding to its existing three French routes out of Cork. Aer Arann now flies to five destinations in France from Cork, Kerry, Galway and Waterford.
The Cork to La Rochelle service will operate every Saturday effective from May 24th to September 13th. 2008. Flights will depart Cork on RE 707 at 13:00, arriving in at 16:05. RE707 will depart La Rochelle at 16:45 and arrive in Cork at 17:50. All services will be operated by an ATR 72 aircraft until September 2008.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “We are delighted to be increasing our network of French routes for 2008. This is Aer Arann’s third route to France from Cork, along with Lorient and Nantes. Fares on the route start from €69".
Thomas Juin , La Rochelle Airport Manager: “ La Rochelle is one of the most picturesque and historically rich cities on the Atlantic coast. The connection between Cork and La Rochelle is perfect for 2008, as Ireland is the guest of honour at the Grand Pavois - one of the biggest international boat shows in September”.
Kevin Cullinane, Marketing Manager, Cork Airport congratulated both Aer Arann on its announcement saying: “Cork Airport welcomes this latest addition to our ever expanding route network and Aer Arann's continuing confidence in its French routes from Cork. As Cork has the oldest yacht club in the world, the Royal Cork Yacht Club, and La Rochelle is the home of the oldest yacht club in France, la Société des Régates Rochelaises, this service will provide great opportunities for sailing fraternities to meet.”
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| Increased capacity announced for Ireland v Scotland & Ireland v Wales |
27th Jan - Due to high demand for Six Nations matchs we can now offer extra capacity for the Ireland/Scotland match from Inverness to Dublin on 23rd Feb returning 24th Feb and for the Ireland/Wales match from Cardiff to Dublin on Thur 6th and Fri 7th March returning Monday 10th March. Click here to book now>>
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| Aer Arann Announces Flights to Brest from Cork |
11th Jan - Aer Arann, Ireland's premier regional airline, today announced a new route from Cork to Brest.
The Cork to Brest service will operate every Wednesday and Saturdays effective from 17th May 2008. Flights will depart Cork on the Wednesday on RE 735 at 10am, arriving into Brest at 12.40. RE 736 will depart Brest on Wednesdays at 13.15 arriving in Cork at 14.00. Flights will depart Cork on the Saturday on RE 731 at 8.30am, arriving into Brest at 11.10. RE 732 will depart Brest on Saturdays at 11.45 arriving in Cork at 12.30pm. All services will be operated by an ATR 72 aircraft until September 2008.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said; “We are delighted to be increasing our network of French routes for 2008. Brest is the ideal destination for Cork customer wishing to spend a long weekend exploring the city, or perhaps tour through the dramatic Brittany landscape nearby. This is our third route to France from Cork, and fares on the route start from €69".
Kevin Cullinane, Marketing Manager, Cork Airport congratulated both Aer Arann on its announcement saying: “The connections between Brittany and Ireland are well-known. Cork Airport welcomes this latest addition to our ever expanding route network and Aer Arann's continuing confidence in its French routes from Cork Airport. I am confident the people of Munster will show their appreciation for this expansion by supporting the new route in large numbers”.
Click here to see our European routes timetable (PDF 25K)>>
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| Aer Arann Announces Expansion into Continental Europe |
10th Jan - Aer Arann today announced it has entered a franchise agreement with Nex Aviation. The franchise will add four new routes to the Aer Arann network. The new destinations are Amsterdam , Bordeaux, Malaga, and Faro. The new services will come into effect on May 1st from Galway Airport and Waterford Airport.
Commenting on the announcement, Garry Cullen, Managing Director at Aer Arann, said: “Today’s announcement represents significant route opportunity for Aer Arann. These four new destinations will provide greater choice and easier access to continental Europe for our customers in the West and South East. In addition to the sun destinations, this route expansion offers services to Amsterdam Schiphol. Schiphol offers the best connections of any airport in the world, with more than 260 destinations in 91 countries. “
The new route expansion comes on the back of a franchise deal between Aer Arann and Nex Aviation. The services will be sold as part of the Aer Arann network. The 100 seater BAE 146-200 jet has leather seats and a generous seat pitch of 31 inches. This aircraft will operate alongside Aer Arann’s current fleet of 14 ATR turbo-prop aircraft. This announcement follows the 2007 delivery of two new ATR 72-500 aircraft, the first in a fleet of 10 to be delivered by 2009.
Mr. Cullen continued: “Aer Arann’s partnership with Nex Aviation allows us to expand our range and underpins the Aer Arann strategy of connecting regional Ireland to the UK and mainland Europe. Of course, the inflight experience offered on board will be the same high quality that Aer Arann’s passengers expect”.
Peter O’Mara, Chief Executive of Nex Aviation said: “Nex Aviation is delighted to announce this partnership with Aer Arann. The Aer Arann brand is firmly established as a household name, and it is a huge benefit to Nex Aviation. Connecting the two regions to a major global hub such as Amsterdam Schiphol is a significant development in access. We anticipate further exciting new routes to be announced in 2008.”
Amsterdam Schiphol Director Aviation Marketing, Jop van Unnik, said: “Amsterdam Schiphol is the fifth largest airport in Europe and offers the best connections of any airport in the world, with more than 260 destinations in 91 countries. We are delighted that Aer Arann has chosen to fly to Amsterdam Schiphol and offer great connectivity to the South-East and the West of Ireland”.
Waterford Airport Chief Executive, Graham Doyle said: “This is very exciting news for Waterford Airport and the South-East region. It brings to eight the number of routes offered by Aer Arann from Waterford this summer – with a choice of weekend, holiday and business destinations and excellent opportunities for onward connections, particularly through Schiphol, one of Europe’s main hubs”.
Joe Walsh, Managing Director, Galway Airport congratulated both Aer Arann and Nex Aviation on their announcement saying: “Connectivity is a key business need, these services Amsterdam Schiphol, Faro, Malaga and Bordeaux are a significant step forward in linking businesses on the western seaboard with Europe and the rest of the world. Galway Airport has become the airport of choice in the West for air travel within Ireland, to the UK and now to Continental Europe due to its convenience, range of destinations and the frequency of services.”
The new services will come into effect on May 1st from Galway Airport and Waterford Airport. Flights will operate daily from both airports to alternate destinations:
- Monday: Bordeaux and Amsterdam
- Tuesday: Malaga
- Wednesday: Faro
- Thursday: Amsterdam
- Friday: Bordeaux and Amsterdam
- Saturday: Malaga
- Sunday: Faro and Amsterdam
Click here to see our European routes timetable (PDF 25K)>>
Aer Arann Route Map 2008
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| Aer Arann Announces Biggest Ever Seat Sale! |
02nd Jan - 1 Million Seats Up for Grabs on All Routes for Year Round Travel
Get the New Year off to a flying start with Aer Arann’s 1 Million Seat Sale. Book from 6th January to 25th January and get fares as low as €20 including all taxes and charges. Travel period is year-round and the sale is available on all routes.
Get in quickly and book flights for a match in Manchester, a special Valentine’s break in Galway, Cork or Waterford or a summer city break to the Edinburgh, London, or any of our 40 routes across Ireland, the UK, and France. Subject to availability.
Colin Lewis head of Sales and Marketing with Aer Arann cabin crew promoting the launch of the Aer Arann
1 million seat sale.
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| Get weekends off to a flying start with Aer Arann Happy Hour! |
01st Dec - Aer Arann are inviting customers to enjoy Happy Hour with them every Thursday and Friday. From 1pm to 2pm on Thursdays and Fridays, Aer Arann will release a number of special promotional fares on a selection of domestic and international routes. Customers can avail of these flights by logging onto www.aerarann.com and clicking on the Happy Hour button. Happy Days!
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| Aer Arann extends Christmas shopping seat sale |
01st Nov - Aer Arann have announced an extension on their Christmas Shopping seat sale campaign with fares from just €25* one-way to many great shopping cities across the UK including London, Cardiff, Manchester and Newcastle.
Colin Lewis , Head of Sales and Marketing for Aer Arann commented: “We have had such a great response to our Christmas Shopping seat sale. Lots of Aer Arann customers have already bagged seats to the UK so we have extended the opportunity to book to all those looking to grab a pre-Christmas break across the water for an extra seven days”.
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| Aer Arann increases flights from the West of Ireland to London |
05th October - Due to increased customer demand, Aer Arann, Europe’s premier regional airline is increasing flights from their Galway base to London Luton to 3 flights per day from the 15th October.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “The increased frequency on this Galway popular service will make travel to London much more convenient, affordable and flexible for both business and leisure passengers. The route will now carry up to 5,000 extra passengers per month, which will provide a great boost to our Galway hub”.
The extra Galway- London Luton service will operate 6 days per week, timetable below:
Departure |
Arrival |
Galway |
12.30 |
London Luton |
14.15 |
London Luton |
14.45 |
Galway |
16.35 |
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| Zoom to the Cork Jazz Festival with Aerarann.com |
04th October - Enjoy a lively mid-term break and fly to the Cork Jazz Festival with Aer Arann, Europe’s premier regional airline.
Renowned as Europe’s friendliest jazz festival, the Cork jazz festival this year celebrates its 30 th year. This world-famous festival takes place from 26th – 29th October with some 1,000 musicians from over 30 countries entertaining fans in over 80 venues across the lively city of Cork including Cork Opera House, Everyman theatre and local pubs and clubs.
Having hosted many of the ‘greats’ of jazz in the past such as Ella Fitzgerald and Buddy Rich, this year’s prestigious line-up will not disappoint and includes Rob Strong, Mary Coughlan, The American Drifters, A470 Big Band, Natty and Adamant Marching Band. Cork jazz festival is a great chance to enjoy the charismatic hospitality and charm of Cork, situated on Southern Ireland’s scenic coast, whilst soaking up some great live jazz.
Aer Arann operate scheduled flights to Cork from Cardiff, Leeds Bradford, Bristol, Edinburgh and Belfast. For more information and bookings log onto www.aerarann.com.
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| Aer Arann and Manchester Airport partner to offer 220 destinations worldwide to the West |
03rd October - Aer Arann and Manchester Airport have joined forces to tell our customers in the West about the great options for onward connections direct from Galway Airport to Manchester Airport and onwards to the rest of the world.
Manchester Airport is the UK’s largest regional airport handling 22 million passengers a year. More than 100 airlines offer direct flights from Manchester to 225 destinations worldwide, more than any other UK airport.
Lewis continued: “Aer Arann flies 54 flights a week between Ireland and Manchester. Our flights from Galway operate every day of the week with two daily flights on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday. Our passengers from Galway can connect with Singapore, JFK, Chicago and Scandinavia, as well as many short-haul European destinations such as Amsterdam and Brussels. Using the evening flight, there are even more exotic long haul destinations such as Dubai and Doha.
Nadine Callan, Head of Airline Marketing, Manchester Airport said: ‘ Manchester Airport welcomes 10,000 passengers a month from Kerry, Waterford, Galway and Sligo. Manchester Airport offers the ideal gateway for these passengers to connect with the rest of the world.
Continued Lewis: ‘Passengers should first choose from the amazing destinations available to them on www.manchesterairport.co.uk. Once they have picked their flights, passengers can book their connecting flights on www.aerarann.com, allowing up to two hours connecting time.’
Over one million customers have travelled with Aer Arann across their 40 routes to 25 great destinations across Ireland, France and the UK. Our new ATR aircraft are the greenest aircraft in the UK and Ireland - an environmentally friendly aircraft with lower emissions of CO2 due to reduced fuel burn, 70% lower fuel consumption than a jet on similar routes and sets new standards in the industry for quietness. Join them by visiting www.aerarann.com or call their reservations team on 0818 210 210.
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| Aer Arann reaches milestone anniversary plus increases Leeds Bradford - Cork flight frequency to daily |
02nd October - Aer Arann, Europe’s premier regional airline is celebrating its 1st anniversary of the Galway service from Leeds Bradford. In addition, due to the success of the Cork service, the airline will increase the frequency of flights to this lively city-break destination to daily flights for the winter, up from five days per week.
Commenting on the announcement, Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said: “The Galway and Cork services, as two of the top Irish short-break destinations, have proved to be huge success stories for Aer Arann at Leeds Bradford. Indeed Leeds Bradford continues to be a popular destination for the Irish, both for students or as a gateway to Yorkshire and beyond. Our 25,000 passengers who have availed of the Leeds Bradford services in the past year seem to agree!”
"We are extremely pleased to celebrate the 1st anniversary of Aer Arann’s Galway service from Leeds Bradford Airport” commented Sam Wynzar, Communications Officer with Leeds Bradford Airport. “The flights to Cork and Galway have proved to be a great enhancement to the services available from the airport and Aer Arann have shown strong commitment to reliability and customer service over the past 12 months, a pledge that our passengers really appreciate" she added.
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| Aer Arann Introduces M-ticket |
06th September - Aer Arann , Ireland ’s leading regional airline today launched a new free text messaging service for customers booking with the airline. Aer Arann is the first Irish airline to introduce this free service.
Aer Arann customers will now be able to receive all booking reference numbers by text message when they book online on www.aerarann.com. The airline’s new service is available immediately as a result of an innovation on the Aer Arann website which makes the booking process mobile friendly.
Commenting on this new service, Colin Lewis Head of Sales and Marketing said, “We are constantly looking at ways of improving our service to our customers. This new text service allows our customers access their flight reference number and details directly from their mobile phone.”
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| Aer Arann announce Rally Ireland Championship sponsorship |
05th September - Aer Arann today announced a partnership with Rally Ireland. Aer Arann will be Rally Ireland’s official airline during the Irish stage of the World Rally Championship (WRC) taking place in Ireland for the first time from this November. This is Aer Arann’s first sponsorship of Rally Ireland and the airline will be flying the world’s top drivers and motor sports enthusiasts to Belfast and Sligo during the four day event.
Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, said: “It’s fantastic for motor-sport in Ireland that this major event has been brought here. As official airline, Aer Arann is delighted to fly the world’s top drivers between stages and bring supporters along to see the action. ”
Rally Ireland WRC takes place from 15th to 18th November 2007, commencing with a Super Special Stage at Parliament buildings in Belfast and with Special Stages throughout the beautiful north-western counties of Ireland.
Ronan Morgan, Rally Ireland, added "The partnership with Aer Arann is important as it will allow us to transport the drivers to Belfast and Sligo return for the Super Special start at Stormont. We will be the first country in the WRC series to use air transport in this way."
Rosanna Davidson, Shaun Gallagher and Gareth Mchale at the launch of the Aer Arann World Rally Championship Sponsorship
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| Galway-London now the second biggest cross-channel route for Aer Arann |
03rd September - The Galway-London Luton route carried 9,001 passengers in August 2007 – the first time any cross-channel route from Galway has passed the 9,000 passengers per month mark.
Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, announced: “We are delighted that Aer Arann’s Galway-London Luton route is our first route to break the 9,000 passengers per month target. Our business on the Galway-London route is 20% ahead of August 2006.’
Lewis continued: “This news is a great follow up to last month’s announcement that August 2007 has been the busiest ever for Aer Arann. Our decision last May to increase frequency from Galway to London to three times a day, four days a week has been vindicated. Our customers in the West have really responded – Aer Arann’s passenger numbers out of Galway Airport are up a whopping 24% year to date 2007, compared to 2006. Aer Arann is truly the West’s favourite airline!
Michael Moloney, Marketing Manager of Galway Airport, said: “I’m delighted that Aer Arann Galway-London Luton now carries over 9,000 passengers. The increased frequency and better timings on this route has given great flexibility to the people in the West. I’m delighted for Aer Arann’s success, and believe it will not be long before we hit the 10,000 mark”.
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| Aer Arann launches group travel initative |
03rd September - Aer Arann, one of Europe’s fastest growing regional airlines, today announces the introduction of special booking rates for group bookings. This special initiative provides the perfect opportunity for parties of 10-66 people to make Ireland your destination for family celebrations, school trips, hen nights, stag do’s or weddings.
The crème de la crème of this special group booking offer is, due to the smaller size of Aer Arann aircraft, this is an exciting opportunity to fill up the whole plane with your friends and family, on a scheduled flight, for the ultimate Irish weekend!
Whether you choose the surfing spots of the stunning west coast, the drinking dens, live music and bustle of Galway, the fabulous Irish golf courses in the regions of Ireland or the culture and charm in and around Waterford, Aer Arann makes it easy for friends and family to travel together to discover the ‘real’ Ireland.
For sporting enthusiasts, equipment such as golf clubs and surf boards can be taken on the plane. Aer Arann offers a free baggage allowance of 20 kgs per passenger in the hold and 7 kgs carry on, making packing that bit easier. Especially useful for a group booking, ticket names do not have to be confirmed until 4 weeks before departure with changes allowed up to 1 day before departure.
Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, says,"We are delighted to be able to offer this group incentive and hope it encourages larger parties to visit and discover all that Ireland has to offer. We are particularly excited to be able to offer great rates for groups wishing to take over an Aer Arann plane on a scheduled flight.”
For your next group travel event contact Aer Arann Group Travel by telephone or by email to receive a great value quote.
Tel: +353 91 541926
Email: groupbookings@aerarann.com
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| Waterford-London now the biggest cross-channel route for Aer Arann |
- Waterford – London breaks 9,000 per month for the first time
- Waterford accounts for 10% of total Aer Arann traffic
The Waterford-London Luton route carried 9,106 passengers in August 2007 – the first time any cross-channel route from Waterford has passed the 9,000 passengers per month mark.
Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, announced: “We are delighted that Aer Arann’s Waterford-London Luton route is our first route to break the 9,000 passengers per month target. Our business on this route is 30% ahead of August 2006.
Lewis continued: “This news is a great follow up to last month’s announcement that August 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 Waterford-London Luton now carries over 9,000 passengers. The increased frequency and better timings on this route has given greater flexibility to the people in the southeast. Additionally, it’s a great reflection of the number of UK tourists choosing to make the region their first choice holiday destination” he added. “I’m confident that it won’t be long before we hit the 10,000 mark”.
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| Day trip to the Kingdom on All Ireland Sunday for just €40!! |
30th August -
Escape GAA GAA madness!!!!
Aer Arann are offering a Fantastic €40 return fare to Kerry the day of the All Ireland Football final Sunday 16th September 2007. Tour the Ring of Kerry with excellent car hire rates available from our partners Avis or enjoy strolling around Killarney or Tralee both just 15 Mins from Kerry Airport. Click here to book online now>>
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| Double Whammy! Aer Arann Celebrates 250,000 Passengers plus 5 years at Edinburgh Airport |
28th August - Aer Arann, the world’s fastest growing regional airline, announced today that it has carried its 250,000 th passenger on its Edinburgh routes in 5 years of services at the Scottish capital’s airport.
One lucky passenger, Laura Hughes of Lasswade Edinburgh, was presented with a bottle of champagne and two free return flights for use on any Aer Arann routes from Edinburgh to celebrate being the 250,000 th passenger to travel on the Edinburgh service. It is Laura’s first trip with Aer Arann travelling to a friends wedding in Cork.
Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing Aer Arann said: “Five years at Edinburgh is a significant milestone and carrying our 250,000 th passenger is yet another great achievement for the airline. We now have a loyal passenger base in Scotland since we began our Edinburgh operation in 2002 and the success of our Cork and Galway routes further strengthens our commitment to connecting Scotland to the regions of Ireland.”
David Johnston, Managing Director of Edinburgh Airport said, "Aer Arann has been one of the great success stories at Edinburgh Airport over the last few years. The fact that their two routes to Galway and Cork have carried 250,000 passengers in just 5 years shows the popularity of both the airline and the two services."
Fares to Cork and Galway from Edinburgh start from £34 including tax. For more information please visit www.aerarann.com, or contact reservations on 0800 587 23 24.
For further information, please contact:
Catriona Lonie, Rooster
Tel: 020 7953 8774
Fax: 020 7953 8780
Email: catriona.lonie@rooster.co.uk
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| Aer Arann Introduce Online Check in for Cork routes |
24th August - Aer Arann today announced the introduction of online check-in on its Cork routes. Cork to Belfast, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Southampton, and Bristol will benefit from online check-in. Online-check is also available on the Cork Dublin route where it was implemented in March.
Passengers can now save time by checking in from the comfort of their own homes or offices before leaving for the airport, ensuring a seamless, stress-free travelling experience.
Online check-in opens 72 hours prior to and closes 3 hours before departure. Customers using the service can assign their seat on board the aircraft and print their boarding card in advance, avoiding check-in queues at the airport.
Commenting on the announcement Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing, Aer Arann said “As part of our ongoing customer service programme we are continually striving to enhance the Aer Arann customer experience. Online check-in offers time savings and convenience to customers and we are delighted to be offering our customers in Cork this service”
For further information, please contact:
Joanna Petty on (01) 6391460 or joanna@marketmatch.ie
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| Aer Arann Aircraft Mechanic Apprenticeship Scheme |
17th August - Aer Arann operates a fleet of 14 ATR42 and ATR72 aircraft, maintained to meet stringent safety and quality requirements, by a team of fully qualified and skilled Mechanics and Engineers.
We offer exciting opportunities to those interested in embarking upon a career in the fast-paced aircraft maintenance industry. If you have an interest and some proven ability in mathematics and physics, and also meet the minimum requirements as listed below, we encourage you to apply for our Aircraft Mechanic Apprenticeship Scheme based at Galway Airport. You may also be asked to work at other Aer Arann bases at Cork, Dublin and Waterford from time to time.
To apply you must:
- Be aged 18 years or over
- Be educated to Leaving Certificate level or equivalent
- Have the right to live and work in the Republic of Ireland
- Have good eye sight* and hearing (all applicants will need to pass a full pre-employment medical)
- Have problem solving skills
- Be methodical and practical
Apprenticeship work will be indoors (in an aircraft hangar environment) and outdoors (at the airport), at heights and in enclosed spaces.
This apprenticeship scheme will be run in conjunction with FÁS and will follow the course outline and also all Terms and Conditions as laid out in the FÁS apprenticeships scheme.
Apply online for this new apprenticeship scheme attaching your Curriculum Vitae>>
*Must pass a colour vision test
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| Busiest Week Ever for Aer Arann, Nearly 30,000 Passengers Take to the Skies |
09th August - This week has been the busiest ever for Aer Arann since the airline began operating commercial flights from Dublin Airport in 1998. The airline carried nearly 30,000 passengers this week which is similar to the entire population of Swords taking to the skies for a week!
Passenger traffic through Dublin, Cork, and Galway accounted for 75% of overall traffic, with Dublin alone accounting for 30% of overall traffic. Colin Lewis, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aer Arann, announced: “We are delighted that Aer Arann passenger figures reached an all time high this week. We’ve exceeded all our expectations and will have carried 30,000 passengers this week alone.” |
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| Aer Arann supports Sunderland with charter flights to all home Premiership games |
07th August - On Saturday 11 th August, the first Aer Arann chartered flight from Dublin to Newcastle will take to the skies. Passengers on board will travel for the Premiership match between Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspurs which will take place on Saturday afternoon. Sky Sports will be filming on board this inaugural flight which is in conjunction with Sunderland Travel. Sunderland Travel has booked charters with Aer Arann for all of Sunderland’s home games for the premiership season.
Commenting on the first of the charter flights, Fergal Barry, Commercial Director for Aer Arann, said: “Aer Arann is delighted to continue their involvement with Sunderland Football Club and to be flying the supporters to the first of many games in the premiership for Sunderland. There’s a marvellous feeling of goodwill between Sunderland and the Irish public and Aer Arann is dedicated to providing this service in order to support the growing number of Sunderland fans".
Paul Sweeney of Sunderland Travel also commented: “For the first time, Irish Sunderland fans will be able to avail of a dedicated charter service going to all Sunderland’s home games. As a new and e |
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