Big Apple top of businesses’ wish lists for direct routes from Cork

Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber; Tara Finn Head of Aviation Business Development Cork Airport and Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director at Cork Airport launching the results of a Cork Chamber survey on businesses current travel patterns and future route preferences. (Photo: Darragh Kane)

New York is by far the most in-demand new direct destination from Cork Airport, according to a new survey conducted by Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork.

The survey of Cork Chamber members, developed in cooperation with Cork Airport, asked businesses about their current travel patterns and future route preferences.

The survey found that 86% of businesses stated that direct air access to Cork Airport is very important for overseas colleagues. The Americas was the final destination for 75% of all long-haul trips taken by businesses and respondents said that New York was their most desired airport for future connectivity from Cork.

While over half of businesses said the UK was the most important short haul destination for doing business, just ahead of mainland Europe.

The survey findings show that Cork Chamber members depend greatly on Cork Airport for conducting their daily business activities. Over 86% of businesses reported that direct air access to Cork Airport is key for overseas colleagues travelling to Cork offices. 

London Heathrow comes out as the top European hub airport with 65% of respondents ranking it number one, and the UK as the top business destination, followed by Amsterdam Schiphol. Paris Charles de Gaulle was ranked as the third most preferred European hub for direct connectivity and onward travel, with a direct seasonal service resuming in March and running through the summer months, there is clear indication of demand for a year-round service.