Following public criticism, it was confirmed on Wednesday that the earlier slots and the overnight retention of an aircraft at Carrickfinn Airport will begin again in four weeks.

A charity representing cancer patients has said it expects a ‘move toward resolution’ when it meets the Transport Minister.

Dublin Cancer Flights and Services organiser Mary Coyle said the group cannot book flights for patients past February 25 because of the uncertainty.

A changed timetable for the Donegal and Dublin route will cut off a ‘medical lifeline’ for cancer patients, Donegal Cancer Flights and Services said.