Shannon Airport included in State regional airports programme after sustained Mid-West lobbying
Limerick Chamber says decision strengthens connectivity, competitiveness and regional development
4 March 2026 | 📧 editor@ipropertyradio.com
Limerick Chamber has welcomed the decision by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien to include Shannon Airport in the Regional Airports Programme 2026–2030, describing the move as an important step in strengthening the Mid-West’s international connectivity and economic competitiveness.
The programme provides State support to regional airports and is intended to enhance connectivity, sustain route development and support balanced regional development. The inclusion of Shannon Airport recognises its role as an international gateway for the Mid-West and wider western region.
According to Limerick Chamber, the airport supports a range of economic drivers including foreign direct investment, indigenous enterprise, tourism and collaboration with higher education institutions across the region.
The Chamber said the announcement follows several years of sustained policy engagement and evidence-led advocacy, including the commissioning of the report Assessment of Aviation Policy as a Driver of Economic Development in the West and Mid-West of Ireland. The report, prepared with analysis from Copenhagen Economics, set out the economic case for strengthening Shannon Airport’s policy position.
Seán Golden, Chief Economist and Director of Policy at Limerick Chamber, said the decision recognises the broader economic role of aviation infrastructure.
“This is a highly significant and welcome decision by the Minister, recognising the critical role Shannon Airport plays in driving the Mid-West economy,” Mr Golden said.
“At Limerick Chamber, we have consistently highlighted, backed by independent analysis from Copenhagen Economics, that aviation policy is not just about transport; it is a fundamental enabler of regional economic growth.”
“Shannon’s inclusion in the Regional Airports Programme 2026–2030 provides the stability and support needed to enhance connectivity, attract investment and create jobs across the region. This decision is a testament to the importance of ensuring regional airports are equipped to compete on a global stage.”
The Chamber said the decision should be accompanied by a wider review of national aviation policy to ensure alignment with the Government’s regional development framework under Project Ireland 2040.
“While this inclusion is a vital step forward, it must be complemented by an updated National Aviation Policy that aligns with the ambitions of Project Ireland 2040,” Mr Golden added.
“Balanced regional development and the infrastructure to support enterprise growth must be at the heart of Ireland’s aviation strategy. If we want our regions to thrive, national policy must provide the tools and frameworks to enable them to compete effectively.”
Separately, the Chamber also welcomed the announcement of a new direct Shannon to Frankfurt service, due to commence in April 2026. The route is expected to strengthen business connectivity with a major European aviation hub and support inbound tourism.
“The upcoming Frankfurt service is a game-changer for the Mid-West,” Mr Golden said.
“Direct access to a major European hub not only strengthens our region’s appeal for mobile investment but also supports exporters and enhances our ability to connect talent, trade and tourism with global markets.”
“This is a strong foundation for further hub connectivity into Northern Europe and beyond, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the region’s economy.”
Limerick Chamber said the next priorities should include ensuring the Regional Airports Programme provides meaningful multi-annual support for Shannon Airport, aligning aviation policy with national spatial planning objectives and advancing coordinated regional route development to support enterprise, tourism and skills across the Mid-West.
