Despite turbulent times Aer Arann marks fifty years of linking the Aran Islands to the Galway mainland.
Aer Arann celebrates the 50th anniversary of the airline's first ever flight. The air service to the three Aran Islands off the west coast of Galway has proven a valuable lifeline to island residents and a boost to the local tourist industry.
Instrumental in bringing the Aer Arann dream to fruition was islander Coleman O hIarnain also known as Colie Hernon. In 1970 he wrote to newspaper editors questioning why the Aran Islands could not have an air service like that operating from many Scottish islands.
A number of Galway business people rose to the challenge, and on 15 August 1970 the first flight took place between Inis Mór, and Oranmore on the Galway mainland.
Aer Arann chief pilot Peadar Conroy explains that 50 years on, the service still uses Britten-Norman Islander planes.
Aran Islands resident Micheál Ó Goill recalls the 20 minute trip to Galway, which in time would take just 6 minutes.
This was a service that would change the life for islanders.
Aer Arann has seen some turbulence over the five decades, most recently when there was uncertainty over the continuation of state support for the service.
Aer Arann head of public relations Grainne McDonagh acknowledges the crucial support of the islanders in keeping the service going,
We're very grateful to still have jobs and be here.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 August 2020. The reporter is Aodhán Ó Maoileoin.
