CITY of Derry Airport has confirmed discussions have been ongoing about maintaining an air bridge for key workers.
This has included “the aiirport’s losses as a result of this crisis in the short term and sustainability post virus”.
An outcome about the discussions is expected today.
CoDA is owned by Derry City and Strabane District Council and has monthly overheads of around £350,000.
Airlines have grounded the majority of flights due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Currently only two commercial flights are operating between the North of Ireland and London.
On Monday, Economy Minister Diane Dodds spoke to British Secretary of State Brandon Lewis and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps about the issue.
“I had an important conversation on air connectivity. I impressed on them the essential role of Northern Ireland’s three airports, not only during this crisis, but also when we emerge from it,” Mrs Dodds said.
“Strong airport connectivity with Great Britain has never been more vital for our economy and, therefore, it remains a top priority for me.”
Finance Minister Conor Murphy said he had stressed to the transport secretary that the airports need “urgent support”.
“I hope the transport secretary can quickly deliver the support needed to maintain business links in the short-term and ensure our airport links remain in place now and when we enter the economic recovery stage,” he said.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said the impact of the current crisis was being felt acutely across ports, airports and airlines.
“I have also spoken with the secretary of state for transport and raised the need for financial assistance to support ports and the local aviation industry,” she said.
“I will continue to press for critical support to protect our economy and, most importantly, our community at this difficult time.”
Former Northern Ireland secretary Julian Smith tweeted on Monday that it was vital the airports stayed open, adding the NI Executive and Department for Transport needed to “resolve this in the coming hours”.
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