THE shamrock has landed. A new Bournemouth-Dublin air service by Irish flag carrier Aer Lingus was launched yesterday giving local travellers and the business community a boost.

The service, operated by Aer Arann, will fly six times a week all year round using an ATR-72 turboprop.

The first arrival – on time just before 4pm – was greeted with a fanfare by passengers, airline and airport bosses and business leaders.

Youngsters from Steppin’ Out Academy of Performance showed off their traditional Irish dancing skills while passengers were entertained by Irish Music Band 8Sharp.

Manchester Airports Group Chief Commercial Officer Ken O’Toole said: “This is a hugely important day for the airport.

“We are delighted with the route and we believe it will be very popular.”

He added: “We have a fantastic facility here at Bourne-mouth. It’s one of the very best regional airports in Europe and we really want to see more local people use us.”

Mr O’Toole said that the domestic routes to places like Glasgow and Newcastle and European hubs such as Paris and Amsterdam were a priority.

Sean Brogan, Aer Arann’s interim CEO said: “It is a very important link in terms of the leisure and business opportunities.

“We are confident that the route will succeed and hope it will lead to more business in the future.

“The access for everyone hasn’t been there for some time and we hope this new route will change that.

“There is a potential for growth here.”

New managing director of Bournemouth Airport, Paul Knight, added: “This is a really exciting day for Bourne-mouth Airport.

“We hope this will be the first of a number of new routes added to our schedules.”