The City of Derry airport will not open until next week because of passenger safety fears, it emerged tonight.
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) officials are carrying out a full audit of the aerodrome after an inspection caused its closure last night.
The investigation found temporary repairs to an area where planes parked were unsuitable and said there was no effective bird control plan. Airport officials were involved in crisis talks with the CAA all afternoon.
However, the regulator said: "In particular, the CAA is reassured by the commitment shown by Derry City Council to develop and implement a credible plan to ensure the safety of operations at City of Derry (Eglinton) Airport."
Steps agreed include the full safety inspection, a review of the safety management system and remedies to the shortcomings already identified. The CAA also said inadequate drainage at the runway needed to be addressed.
The matter first came to its attention after a public inquiry into plans to extend the airport. Officials from owners Derry City Council met the CAA at London Gatwick this afternoon.
All flights to and from the airport by Ryanair have been suspended and British Airways rescheduled its flights to operate instead through Belfast International. Passengers travelling by BA to Glasgow International and Dublin were advised to check in at the City of Derry Airport as normal for coach transfers to Belfast.
It is an important regional connection with the North West of Ireland serving passengers in Co Derry and also Co Donegal. Among the routes also served are flights to Bristol, Liverpool, East Midlands and a number of package holiday resorts.
PA