Management at George Best Belfast City Airport has confirmed that a flagship airline currently NOT operating in Northern Ireland has signalled its intentions to begin services from the City should the runway extension be granted. Katy Best, Business Development Director at the airport said: "In addition to Ryanair's public commitment to European routes, I can also confirm that discussions with a "flagship carrier" are advancing. "We plan to extend the runway by 590 metres within our own boundary, to enable aircraft to carry a heavier fuel load and fly direct to European destinations."Whilst the airport would not be drawn on the identity of the airline, its entry to the market would obviously boost the local economy at a much needed time. Katy Best continued: "Our planned runway extension is not to accommodate one particular airline but potentially a range of airlines to service a range of European destinations. "Previously we have lost out on airlines and routes who indicated that the length of our runway was the only factor in not locating services from the City or beginning operations in Northern Ireland." Management have assured residents that the extension will not entail larger aircraft, a change in the opening hours or a change to the current planning agreement. For more information on the airport's plans go to www.belfastcityairport.com