Knock Airport is to suspend all operations from next week with staff temporarily laid off due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The airport has seen a massive drop in flights and has no option but to suspend operations until demand increases again.
The airport's managing director Joe Gilmore said: "Like all airports Ireland West Airport is experiencing an unprecedented reduction in customer demand for air travel due to the impact of Covid-19 virus.
"At present the airport is open & all flights are operating as normal as we continue to help airlines get Irish citzens & those from overseas back home.
"However, passenger numbers have decreased so significantly in recent days that we have had to begin to scale back passenger operations at the airport.
"We have been advised by our airline partners that as of Tuesday 24th March at midnight, Ryanair will suspend all flights to and from the airport and as of Sunday 29th March, Aer Lingus will suspend their London Gatwick service to and from the airport due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
"Airline operations will be temporarily suspended until further notice.
"Due to the severe impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the decision of the airlines to temporarily suspend passenger flights, it is with regret that we have had to place staff on temporary lay-off from Monday 30th March in order to safeguard the airport and our staff.
"This 'lay-off' will be a short-term measure and that business can resume as soon as possible."
Meanwhile, Ryanair has grounded most of its fleet and does not expect to operate in April or May, boss Michael O'Leary has said.
But the airline has offered to fly vital medicine and equipment between European countries to help battle Covid-19.
They are also working on rescue flights to get stranded passengers across Europe home.
In a statement this morning, Mr O'Leary said: "As a Group of Airlines, we expect most of our flights to be grounded from Tues 24th March onwards.
"We have offered our aircraft to all EU Governments, both for rescue flights and to operate essential flights for the movement of vital medicines, personal protective equipment, and if necessary, emergency food supplies.
"As Europe’s borders become congested or closed, it’s vital Ryanair plays its part to keep vital medicines and food supplies moving.
"We are continuing to work with EU Governments on rescue flights to return stranded passengers to their home country.
"In all cases, these flights take place under maximum safety, with daily disinfecting of aircraft, and no trolley service to minimise social contact.
"The safety and well-being of our crews and passengers is our number one priority."
