The Minister was speaking as she announced the development of the Northern Ireland Domestic Aviation Kickstart Scheme (NIDAKS) which is a support scheme for airlines aimed at enhancing air connectivity with the rest of the United Kingdom following the pandemic.
She said, “Air connectivity is vital for Northern Ireland’s economic recovery.
“That is why I have approved the appointment of aviation consultants who will design and develop an airline support scheme to maintain and enhance Northern Ireland’s domestic air connectivity with Great Britain this summer.
“We have engaged with our three local airports and the airlines.
“NIDAKS’ aim is to support inbound tourism and business travel between Northern Ireland and Great Britain and to encourage Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the local economy.