July 8 marks the 40th Anniversary of the first flight by Ryanair from Waterford Airport. Waterford Airport gained its operational licence in December 1981, leading to international flight licences in 1982.
The first Ryanair flight departed for London Gatwick on July 8, 1985, marking the start of international scheduled air services at the airport.
Within the first week, bookings surpassed expectations by 40pc, reflecting growing confidence in the service.
Waterford Airport has not seen commercial flights since 2016 but remains busy with other services, including the Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter R117.
John O’Connor News editor of the Munster Express shared, “There were politicians and media on board and we took off and circled for one hour and then landed. The flight never left Ireland. Everyone was excited at the time because of the possibility of increased tourism and using the airport for work. It was always suggested at the time that a lot of people setting up businesses had looked at Waterford, but then found out there was no airport. There was optimism at the time that an airport would be good for Waterford.”
