Athlone "high flyer" is Knock airport's 10 millionth passenger

Athlone’s Lorna Conway was the 10 millionth passenger to pass through Ireland West Airport, Knock.

The lucky local resident, who was travelling to Edinburgh with Flybe for a wedding with her parents was the 10 millionth passenger and on checking in for her flight was greeted with champagne, a specially designed Lily O’ Brien gift hamper and a pair of return flights to Edinburgh, to mark the occasion.

“I’m overwhelmed and completely surprised; this is a fantastic way to be greeted at check-in for my flight to Edinburgh,” a delighted Lorna said.

This major landmark follows a strong start to the year for the airport with passenger numbers for the first half of the year up 4% compared to the same period in 2015, with the airport on track to record the busiest year on record with passenger numbers expected to reach close to 750,000 for the first time.

The airport, which first opened back in 1986, now serves 23 international destinations.