Aer Lingus Regional yesterday launched its inaugural flight to Dublin from Aberdeen airport.

The flight, operated by Aer Arann, marked the first Aer Lingus Regional connection between Aberdeen and Ireland enabling Scottish passengers to take advantage of onward connections to New York.

Flights between Aberdeen and Dublin will operate every day except Saturday.

To mark the celebrations, all passengers travelling on the first flight to Shannon today enjoyed a complimentary refreshments reception in the departure area prior to boarding. The first passengers were also treated to live traditional Irish music at the check-in and boarding gate areas.

Welcoming the departure of the first flight, Sinead Murphy, Marketing Manager, Aer Arann said, “We are delighted to introduce our new service from Aberdeen to Dublin today. This new service further improves the direct links between Scotland and Ireland for both business and leisure passengers.”

Aberdeen Airport Managing Director Derek Provan said, “It is exciting for everyone at the airport to see the new service get underway. This route comes with many benefits, not only does it provide another connection to Dublin which is a very popular destination, but being able to clear US customs before you arrive on American soil creates an attractive proposition. It provides a terrific new hub choice and opens up North America to the North East of Scotland passenger. We wish them every success for the future.”