Sir, - The passenger load fee (PFL) for a passenger embarking on a domestic flight from Dublin, Shannon or Cork Airports is being increased from £2 to £3 on August 1st 2000; £4 on October 1st 2000; £5 on April 1st 2001; £6 on April 1st 2002; £7.23 on April 1st 2003;
This is a staggering 260 per cent increase in less than three years!
No doubt Aer Rianta would explain that the final figure is currently the fee for all international flights (except transatlantic) and that it is only reasonable to bring the domestic fee into line etc.
These increases are to be deplored and, unless cancelled, will adversely affect the growth of internal air traffic and the viability of those trying to provide this service. Presumably the Minister, Mrs O'Rourke, has sanctioned the massive increase. - Yours, etc.,
R.J. Cloughley, Rathdown Park, Terenure, Dublin 6w.