Belfast v Dublin

The battle for passengers between Belfast and Dublin international airports moves up a gear from today (11 September) as the Northern Ireland facility embarks on phase two of a major advertising campaign to lure business away from the south.

Conceding the move was “hard hitting”, Belfast Airport managing director Graham Keddie said the “Forget Dublin, we’re flying” theme was meant to address the long drive passengers had to make to and from the Republic of Ireland’s main airport.

The campaign also tackles the extensive delays Belfast claims are being experienced in Dublin with long queues, it is claimed, for US flight pre-clearance.

Keddie added: “Our key message of ‘Cheaper, nearer simpler’ is aimed at the tens of thousands of passengers from southern border counties who can fly to 70-plus destinations from Belfast International, the main ‘gateway’ in the northern half of the island.

“Phase One of the campaign was an outstanding success. We’ve seen many thousands more price-conscious passengers from across the border favouring our airport over Dublin, and the trend is increasing.

“Yes, we’re having a go at the main opposition, just as they are visible in Northern Ireland trying to ‘poach’ business here.  We make no apologies for fighting back and offering a real alternative. That’s business!”

www.belfastairport.com

Index/Home page
 

OUR READERS' FINEST WORDS (All times and dates are GMT)

All comments are filtered to exclude any excesses but the Editor does not have to agree with what is being said. 100 words maximum