Shannon Airport is set to reach the 2 million passenger mark by the end of 2024, which would be the first year it has hit this milestone since 2009.
Shannon Airport Group chief executive, Mary Considine said growth across all key air services, in 2023, surpassed expectations, while passenger traffic in the first quarter of 2024 was 12% up, year-on-year.
“2023 saw us welcome 1.959 million passengers, a 29% increase on the previous year, and the highest level of traffic since 2009. Our commitment to enhancing connectivity was reflected in notable increases in passenger traffic across all key markets. Continental European traffic rose by 41% to 748,000; UK traffic increased by 31% to 838,000, and transatlantic passenger numbers grew by 24% to 296,000,” said Ms Considine.
“Transatlantic services at Shannon are an important part of our customer offering and they received a major boost in 2023 with the launch of a new daily Chicago service by United Airlines. With reduced dwell times in security screening and our established US Pre-clearance facilities, passengers can look forward to an even easier and more enjoyable experience at Shannon.
“We have enjoyed a transatlantic market rebound generally since Covid, and in addition to Chicago, we offer services to New York/JFK, Boston, and New York/Newark with our airline partners. We are delighted that May 2024 will see the resumption of the Delta New York/JFK service. This new daily seasonal service will further boost Shannon’s connectivity to the US, meeting the demand for direct US routes to and from the West of Ireland.
“Shannon Airport’s recognition as the best Irish airport brand in 2023 by RED C underscores our commitment to customer satisfaction, which remains central to our operations. Our routes to and from Shannon Airport facilitate access to global export markets, attract Foreign Direct Investment, support tourism and drive economic activity.
“2024 is off to a great start with first quarter airport passenger traffic results showing a 12% increase on 2023 figures.”
The service offering from Shannon was boosted considerably in 2023 with new Ryanair services to destinations including Naples, Porto, Béziers and Liverpool, as well as additional capacity on popular destinations such as Malaga, Faro and Alicante, particularly during peak holiday times and school holidays. Another highlight was the launch of the new Aer Lingus service to the hub airport of Paris Charles de Gaulle.
Ms Considine said: “As we look forward to another positive year in 2024, we remain optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead, as our airport and commercial property activities continue to create an environment that boosts economic growth and helps the region to grow.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to prioritising customer satisfaction, a principle that guides both our airport operations and our commercial property endeavours, and to ensuring that Shannon Airport continues to be Ireland’s airport of choice for connectivity and business.”
