Irish carrier Aer Lingus’ first flight arrives at PHL
Philadelphia Business Journal

This weekend the flag carrier airline of Ireland became the sixth foreign airline to service Philadelphia International Airport, which welcomed Aer Lingus’ maiden flight with a water cannon salute.

Less than six months after announcing Aer Lingus would operate nonstop flights between PHL and Dublin, the airline saw its new year-round service kick off. The airline’s CEO previously described the addition as “transformational” for the company since it will help connect both leisure and business travelers to 21 other destinations through Dublin. It’s a point the COO reiterated ahead of the Sunday welcome.

“Aer Lingus’ transatlantic offering not only leads the way in our home market but our connecting options via Dublin also continue to gain pace in the UK and Europe as the smartest route to North America,” said Aer Lingus Chief Operating Officer Mike Rutter. “We remain focused on growing our transatlantic network and further strengthening our Dublin base as a leading gateway to North America.”