Aer Lingus, this week, triumphantly flew athletes, coaches and staff from Paralympics Ireland home from this year’s Paralympic Games in Paris.
A total of 35 athletes from Team Ireland competed over 10 days of competition in Paris across athletics, archery, cycling, equestrian, power-lifting, rowing, swimming, table tennis and triathlon winning 6 medals.
Team Ireland medal winners on-board the Aer Lingus flight were Katie-George Dunlevy (gold, silver x2), Linda Kelly (silver x2), Róisín Ní Ríain (silver, bronze), Eve McCrystal (silver) and Orla Comerford (bronze).
As the official airline of Paralympics Ireland, Aer Lingus expressed its pride to have brought Team Ireland, thousands of supporters and #HomeAdvantage to Paris throughout the competition.
Aer Lingus has previously supported Team Ireland’s journey to Tokyo and since then, has transported Irish para-athletes to World and European Games across Europe in the lead up to qualification for Paris.
Commenting on Team Ireland’s return, Susanne Carberry, Aer Lingus Chief Customer Officer, said, “We are so proud of Team Ireland and honoured to welcome each and every one of them onboard to travel home today having done the country proud with their thrilling performances. After such a long build up to the competition and their amazing efforts in Paris, I hope they take the time to enjoy what they’ve achieved and how much it has meant to the country. I am sure we will be welcoming some of them onboard again very soon for a well-deserved holiday”.
Stephen McNamara, CEO of Paralympics Ireland, added: “Aer Lingus has been involved in many iconic homecoming moments over the years, and from the welcome at the gate to the congratulations on the aircraft, they make everyone feel like family.
Paris has been a phenomenal experience that all of our athletes can be proud of, and the support of the Irish fans both at home and abroad is something we will never forget. As we return to Ireland, from the moment we board, we’re home.”