Rugby World Cup boosts Aer Arann

Aer Arann, which describes itself as Europe's fastest-growing regional airline, has announced an all-time high in its passenger figures as a result of the commencement of the rugby World Cup over the weekend.

The airline runs scheduled flights to Nantes from Cork, Cardiff and Bristol, which were fully booked with rugby fans travelling to see the competition kick off.

Colin Lewis, head of sales and marketing at the airline, said it was "delighted" at the achievement of record passenger numbers.

He added: "Every seat on every flight was full between the UK and Ireland - Cardiff-Nantes, Bristol-Nantes and Cork-Nantes.

"Indeed, for the whole of summer 2007, we've exceeded all our expectations this year and as we will carry 8,700 between Nantes and the UK and Ireland – 20 per cent ahead of last year."

Aer Arann runs 40 routes to 25 destinations across Ireland, France and the UK, which have been used by over a million customers.

Followers of the rugby World Cup will take in a number of popular tourist destinations this year, including Toulouse, Bordeaux, Paris and Lyon.

Airport Parking - Pre-book your Airport Parking with Holiday Extras and save up to 60 per cent. We offer over 60 car parks at 27 UK Airports.