Just to reply to Ryan two bob, Cork airport was built in 1961 or 1962, and as you can imagine, politics was to the fore in the site selection. Rumour had it that the farm on which its built was owned by a farmer, who wanted to retire, but handily enough was a member of a particular political party.
So that's why it is where it is, in part.
What annoys me is that so much money was spent on the terminal, but very little on the airfield of late.
Another 1,000 feet, to 1,500 feet onto 25, with a displaced threshold with an ILS, or less expensively, RNAV approach, would allow the jets to land at almost max. Landing weight.
Look at how useful 25 is, not many Aer Lingus regional flights cancelled today, because they can use it, but, as no minima are published for Cat C aircraft, the A320 and Boeing, can't.
That said, today was an exceptional day's wind - enroute Cork the actual was
230 at 38 gust 59.
Strongest I've seen in 25 years of flying in Cork.
Would love to see statistics on diversions ex Cork for the last few years.
I think the problem is getting worse.
The last few winters have seen little wind.
It' s baaaaaack!!!!!!!