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Shannon Chamber has welcomed Ryanair’s announcement of plans to invest €50 million in a new aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility and Engineering Academy at Shannon Airport, describing it as a transformative investment that further reinforces Shannon’s position as one of Europe’s leading aviation centres.

Welcoming the announcement, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes said:

“This is a hugely significant announcement for Shannon and the wider Mid-West region. Ryanair’s decision to make this major investment is a strong endorsement of the exceptional aviation ecosystem that has been built here over many decades and of the depth of engineering expertise that exists across the region.

“Importantly, this investment complements the extensive aircraft maintenance activity already taking place at Shannon. Companies such as Ryanair, Atlantic Aviation Group, Lufthansa Technik Turbine Shannon, IAC, Magellan Aviation Group and many others have established Shannon as one of Europe’s foremost centres of excellence for aircraft maintenance, engineering, aircraft leasing and aviation services. This announcement further strengthens that ecosystem, enhances Shannon’s international competitiveness and reinforces its reputation as a premier location for aviation investment.”

Ms Downes said the investment demonstrates the value of continuing to build on Shannon’s unique aviation strengths.

“The creation of an additional 400 highly skilled jobs, together with a new Engineering Academy, is particularly welcome. It will help develop the next generation of aviation professionals while creating exciting career opportunities for both young people entering the industry and experienced engineers seeking to further their careers.

“Shannon has a proud aviation heritage. As the birthplace of aircraft leasing and home to one of Europe’s most established aviation clusters, it has developed a globally recognised reputation for excellence across aircraft maintenance, engineering, aerospace services and aviation innovation. Continued investment of this scale reinforces the importance of ensuring the region has the infrastructure, connectivity, housing and skills pipeline needed to support future growth.”

Acknowledging the collaborative efforts of The Shannon Airport Group, Ryanair, Enterprise Ireland and Government in bringing the project forward, Ms Downes added:

“This investment sends a powerful message internationally that Shannon continues to be a location where aviation companies can invest, innovate and grow with confidence. It further enhances the region’s attractiveness for future aerospace investment and strengthens the Mid-West’s contribution to Ireland’s position as a global aviation leader.

“The announcement reflects the strong momentum currently being experienced across the region and highlights the importance of continued strategic investment in aviation, skills development and enabling infrastructure to sustain long-term economic growth and ensure Shannon continues to build on its position as one of Europe’s leading aviation hubs.

We are also aware that this is one of three major Ryanair maintenance and engineering investment announcements across Europe in 2026, alongside Madrid and Prestwick, and we would like to congratulate, in particular, Ray O’Driscoll, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group and Enterprise Ireland on their partnership in bringing this investment to fruition,” added Ms Downes.