Shannon Chamber Welcomes Government Announcement on Shannon Airport’s inclusion in the Regional Airports Programme
Following years of sustained advocacy with Government, Oireachtas members, Ministers, and strategic partners to ensure Shannon Airport’s rightful place in national aviation policy and funding frameworks, Shannon Chamber welcomes today’s announcement that Shannon Airport is now included in the Regional Airports Programme 2026 – 2029, marking a major milestone for balanced regional development and connectivity for the West of Ireland.
Since January 2023, Shannon Chamber has formally called for an expansion of the Regional Airports Programme to include Shannon Airport urging its inclusion on a permanent and sustainable basis in future programme structures. This advocacy was articulated through its submission to the Mid-Term Review of the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025, where the Chamber highlighted the benefits of extending eligibility under EU State Aid rules for airports handling fewer than 3 million passengers.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, Shannon Chamber reinforced this position in its Programme for Government submission, Pre-Budget 2026 submission, and ongoing policy engagements, emphasising that Shannon Airport’s inclusion would support regional jobs, tourism, enterprise, and balanced national connectivity.
Welcoming the announcement, Chamber CEO Helen Downes said: “We are delighted that Government has listened to the strong and evidence-based case for including Shannon Airport in the Regional Airports Programme. This announcement is a testament to the sustained advocacy that has been done, not just by Shannon Chamber, but by the regional business community. Permanent inclusion will unlock long-term investment opportunities, strengthen connectivity for the Mid-West and broader region, and underpin future economic growth.”
Shannon Chamber thanked Minister O’Brien, the Department of Transport, all elected representatives, stakeholders, and partner organisations who supported this important development, stating that a review of National Aviation Policy is the next step needed to support regional airport competitiveness and maximise the use of airports in the regions.