Shannon Airport is set to achieve a record-breaking milestone in 2024, exceeding two million passengers for the first time since 2009. This significant achievement marks the culmination of a decade of remarkable growth and investment by The Shannon Airport Group, which manages the airport and its extensive commercial property portfolio at the Shannon Campus.
Over the past ten years, The Shannon Airport Group has injected over €178 million into the development of the airport and its associated properties. This investment has spurred a transformation, leading to the expansion of flight routes, improved facilities, and a renewed focus on sustainability.
The airport’s connectivity has been significantly enhanced, with flights now connecting to 33 destinations across Europe, the UK, and the US. The addition of Delta Air Lines’ new service to New York-JFK, launched earlier this year, has been a major boost. Furthermore, increased flight frequencies have been implemented on nine popular summer routes, including Alicante, Faro, and Lanzarote.
Shannon Airport remains the only transatlantic gateway along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering flights to New York, Newark, Boston, and Chicago. The airport has also added capacity on key routes for the Winter 2024/2025 season.
Shannon Airport has consistently embraced innovation, becoming Europe’s first airport to open a sensory room for passengers with neurodivergent needs in 2017. The airport also achieved the prestigious Age Friendly Status from the World Health Organization (WHO), demonstrating its commitment to inclusive travel.
Shannon Airport has been a pioneer in streamlining the travel experience, introducing the Mobile Passport Control app in early 2024. This app allows travelers to complete part of the preclearance process before arriving at the airport, making the journey more efficient.
Beyond its role as a vital air travel hub, Shannon Airport plays a pivotal role in balancing Ireland’s aviation sector. The airport helps alleviate congestion at Dublin Airport, enhancing connectivity and supporting the government’s goal of achieving regional economic balance.
Over the past decade, The Shannon Airport Group’s commercial property division has flourished, transforming Shannon Airport Business Park into the largest multi-sectoral business park outside Dublin. This thriving business park is home to over 300 companies operating in diverse industries, including life sciences, aviation, autonomous vehicles, and medical devices. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, the business park serves as a catalyst for innovation and technological progress. Future expansion plans are in place, ensuring the park remains a vital hub for regional economic growth and collaboration.
Sustainability is deeply ingrained in The Shannon Airport Group’s operations. The group has committed to a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and aims for Net Zero by 2050. In collaboration with ESB, the group is exploring the potential for a green hydrogen facility in Shannon.
Recently, planning permission was granted for a 1.2MW solar farm within Shannon Airport’s airfield. This innovative project, once completed, will provide up to 20% of the airport’s energy needs, making it Ireland’s first airfield solar farm.
Sustainability is also a core focus of The Shannon Airport Group’s commercial property business. New developments and facility upgrades are adhering to NZEB and LEED standards, reflecting a commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
Shannon Airport’s journey over the past decade has been marked by remarkable growth, innovative initiatives, and a deep commitment to sustainability. As the airport continues to flourish, it is poised to play an even more significant role in driving regional economic development and shaping the future of travel in Ireland.
