Emerald Airlines seeks licence from regulators in the Republic

Emerald Airlines, a new carrier backed by aviation entrepreneur Conor McCarthy which is bidding for the Aer Lingus Regional contract, is seeking a licence from regulators in the Republic. Aer Lingus put the contract to operate regional services in Britain and Ireland out for tender earlier this year. Bidders include its current partner Stobart Air, Emerald and others. Aer Lingus is now weighing bids, and could decide later this month on whether to retain the services of Stobart Air or choose a new partner. The current deal ends in December 2022. It is understood that Emerald has applied to the Republic’s Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) for an Air Carrier Operating Licence, which entitles the holder to sell flights to the public. Applicants have to show they have the necessary finance and resources to operate a commercial airline in order to get a licence. Also, a majority of their owners, 51% or more, must be based in the EU. McCarthy, the biggest shareholder in aircraft maintenance specialist Dublin Aerospace, set up Emerald Airlines in May. He did not comment on Thursday.<br/>