By Darragh McDonagh

The future of Galway Airport is hanging in the balance as Aer Arann prepares for the full hearing of its application for examinership in the High Court next week, according to local representatives.

Management of the regional airport is scheduled to meet with the interim examiner, airline management and government representatives in advance of next Wednesday’s crucial court hearing.

The continued viability of Galway Airport has been described by public representatives in Galway as “inextricable” from that of Aer Arann, which operates the majority of flights at the air terminal in Carnmore.

The airline, which employs around 320 people in Ireland, applied for examinership last week after posting losses of around €18.5m for the past two and a half years. The High Court will decide next week if the company is to remain in examinership for a further 70 days.

Aer Arann have confirmed that during the period of examinership, flight services will continue to operate as normal to and from Galway Airport.

A statment from the Board and Management of Galway Airport on Friday said they would be meeting with the Examiner, Aer Arann Management and relevant Government Ministers over the coming days.

Galway Senator Fidelma Healy Eames said that the future of the regional airport was dependent on the survival of Aer Arann, and called on the Government to provide every possible support to ensure its viability.

Read more in this week's Connacht Sentinel