EIDW "Rumoured" New Operators

[EIDW Spotter]

Was just reading a couple of other forums, and it stated there is a rumour that Gulf Air are to actually start up scheduked services from EIDW/Dublin, and also a possibility that ANA are also looking at starting scheduled flights.

Also, anyone have any infomation on the rumoured Aerlingus expansion into Asia?

[MarkD]

Willie W said on radio Asia was unlikely. Most of his focus is on US and getting rid of bilateral. Am a bit p!ssed off that focus is on US dests when a 52wk A330 YYZ (say 4x, with YUL 3x?) connection would put paid to summer AC762 and TS310s sharpish, especially if enough cargo could be drummed up. Shorter routes than ORD and LAX, thus better utilisation.

[akerosid]

Well, it's up to EI, but if they leave it too long, Asia will be unlikely. If GF or (particularly EK) get a route to DUB, they might as well throw their hat at it.

Nothing will happen on the US market this year, so why not focus elsewhere. Furthermore, if another 9/11 occurs and EI STILL has all its long haul eggs in one basket, where does that leave it.
Furthermore, as more and more pax decide they can't be bothered with the ever increasing restrictions on visas etc. for the US, they may well be tempted by other long haul options.

If they miss this chance, WW might as well write a letter to Maurice Flanagan (of EK) and say "we don't want this market, you have it".