Wales to get new air link
Friday, 10 Dec 2004 11:43
Davies: airports have a vital role to play in Wales
A new air link between North and South Wales will be operational by 2006, it has been announced.
A Welsh Assembly Minister confirmed that the Swansea to Anglesey route will operate via Cardiff.
It is hoped the link will benefit both business and tourism by significantly reducing journey times.
Transport Minister Andrew Davies told the BBC: "Airports and air services have a vital role to play in the development of an integrated and sustainable transport system and I am keen to exploit the potential of air services in Wales.
"This service will result in improved business linkages, tourism opportunities, and significant time savings for travel between North and South Wales."
The route is part of a 15 year, £8 billion transport plan announced by Mr Davies earlier this week.
However, questions over whether the route will require subsidising remain unanswered.
Mr Davies stated that passenger numbers on the service would dictate the level of financial assistance the route would require.
Mr Davies also responded to the fact that European Commission regulations do not allow provision for flight subsidies by stating that some peripheral European routes might, under certain circumstances, be eligible for support.