Knock Airport to Scranton flight will happen, says Weir

Council officials in Ballina’s sister city of Scranton are confident that a flight between Ireland West Airport Knock and the Pennsylvanian city will happen, according to a county councillor.

Cathaoirleach of the Ballina Municipal District, Cllr Seamus Weir recently travelled to the US with Tom Gilligan, the Director of Services of Mayo County Council, for the St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Cllr Weir said they received a fantastic welcome, adding that the relationship with Scranton has gone from strength to strength since the election of US President Joe Biden. Ballina has been Scranton’s sister city since 1990 and there have been strong ties to the US city over the years. Mr Biden's great-great-great grandfather, Edward Blewitt, left Ballina with his wife and family in 1851, at the tail-end of the Famine to settle in Scranton and a significant number of people living in the US city have North Mayo family connections.

“In all of my travels it is the strongest link we have had and there is a great bond if you walk around Scranton," said Cllr Weir. "We were treated so well. We discussed a few things. One thing that is strong in their minds is a link between Scranton and Knock. They are saying that it is going to happen.” 

The connection with Scranton was deepened further following President Biden's memorable and historic visit to Ballina last year.

Meanwhile, Mr Gilligan described it as a very productive trip.

“We were only there a couple of nights but the people were very genuine and very hospitable,” he said. “I think the future is bright and I see nothing but positivity coming out of it.”

Donal Healy, head of aviation business development, marketing, and communications at Ireland West Airport Knock, said the airport recently met Scranton officials during a visit here. They are continuing to discuss all options in relation to a flight connection but talks are still at an exploratory stage.