It seems that some posters are missing the point of the debate. It's about preferential treatment, not questioning whether or not pilots should receive such helpful information for flight planning. The notice in itself demonstrates good operating practices between service provider and customer.However, if the instruction was given to air traffic controllers to give this level of service to only one particular airline then serious questions would need to be asked.I wonder if Dermot Mannion (aer lingus) chief exec was aware of this apparent ''close '' relationship between service provider and customer. Could it have been a contributing factor to Aer lingus' withdrawal from the Shannon to Heathrow route?
It would certainly tighten the lips of Mannion's critics. I hear that he is also contemplating a complete withdrawal of transatlantic services in the Autumn. One can only hope that this latest revelation doesn't influence his decision. Shannon airport has always struggled for business. A ruthless low fares airline, monopoly of Shannon would not be good for the airport's long term developement.
Last edited by philipint; 8th Mar 2008 at 07:28.