Star Alliance Christmas Lunch in Shelbourne

#staralliance #unitedairlines #aircanada #turkishairlines #ethiopianair #daa #aegeanairlines #egyptair #tap #shannonairport

It was a star-studded line-up for the annual Star Alliance lunch in Dublin’s Shelbourne Hotel on St. Stephen’s Green on December 7th. The stellar cast assembled at 12.30 for a little pre-prandial and the festivities got underway immediately. What better venue in which to celebrate the world’s major airlines and regional partners than the very special Shelbourne Hotel. Top names in aviation, corporate and leisure travel, Shannon Airport and Dublin Airport representatives were all present and ready to celebrate the world’s leading airline alliance. Martina Coogan (Head of Corporate Sales United Airlines) and Alan Sparling (MD ASM Ireland) were our generous and welcoming hosts and we enjoyed a most convivial afternoon.

Star Alliance member airlines include many of the world’s top aviation companies. In addition, smaller regional carriers are also members, affording easy access and connections to virtually every destination in the world. This airline alliance is absolute key to members connectivity whilst each maintaining individual style, unique selling points and cultural identity. Naturally, each airline shares the common goal of aspiring to the highest standards of safety and excellent customer service. As a world alliance, the degree of multicultural richness is hugely diverse and vital for member airlines to grow and thrive.

Martina spoke eloquently to apprised us of the success of United Airlines and Air Canada (voted world’s family friendly airline) to date and the increase in weekly rotations for Egyptair direct from Dublin, TAP’s profitability and Turkish Airlines having been voted the world’s best airline. We also learned that United Airlines’ revenue out of Shannon jumped by 12.5 % and Shannon Airport’s passenger numbers increased by 14%. Owen Mc Laughlin (VP DAA) reported excellent growth at Dublin Airport with record numbers recorded each month. Clare Dunne (CEO ITAA) thanks our hosts for the delightful invitation and she reminded the assembled guests that we need one another going forward with mutual cooperation and support being vital for continued growth and success.