WITH four in 10 passengers arriving at Dublin Airport travelling onwards to the west of Ireland, an aviation policy to balance regional development and support airports like Shannon is badly needed, Minister Sean Canney was told.
The Shannon Airport Group welcomed Minister Canney, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rails, and Ports, and leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, on his inaugural visit to Shannon Airport.
The visit was an important meeting in the context of the ongoing engagement between the Department of Transport and the Shannon Airport Group.
During his time at Shannon, the Minister met with CEO Mary Considine and her team to learn more about the airport’s strategic initiatives and recent developments.
The Minister was updated on progress work within the airport’s €30m investment programme, which commenced in 2025.
Ms Considine expressed her appreciation for the Minister’s visit, saying: “With 40 per cent of the population in our catchment area and 70 per cent of the tourism workforce based outside Dublin, regional connectivity is not just important – it’s essential to national growth”.
“Nearly four in 10 tourists arriving in Dublin travel west and aviation policy must reflect this reality and support airports like Shannon in driving balanced economic development.”
Acknowledging Shannon’s important role in Ireland’s transport and logistics sector, Minister Canney said: “Shannon Airport is a vital gateway for Ireland and a cornerstone of our national airport network. I am deeply impressed by the ambition shown by the Shannon Airport Group in advancing connectivity, sustainability, and economic opportunity for the region.”
“I have seen first-hand how the passenger experience drives innovation at the airport with more and more travellers choosing Shannon Airport as a result. I am heartened to see the airport’s strong growth trajectory continuing with passengers up seven per cent so far this year, reflecting the vital role Shannon Airport plays in providing connectivity for both leisure and business customers.”
