The government is searching for airlines to provide a new link between Donegal and Dublin in 2022.
A €17million contract went out to tender this week for the public service obligation (PSO) route.
The Department of Transport is aiming to secure a supplier carrier on a three-year contract. The contract, due to begin early next year, is subject to renewal after the 36-month period.
The Donegal-Dublin regional route was grounded after the collapse of Stobart Air in June. A month later, the government awarded a seven-month Public Service Obligation contract for the route to Swedish airline Amapola Flyg AB. The Stockholm-based carrier entered the Irish market for the first time to deliver the route.
The new tender aims to ensure continuity of service on the Donegal route when Amapola Flyg’s temporary contract expires.