In 2024, Shannon Airport Group elevated its standing, surpassing its passenger growth target by welcoming over 2.1 million passengers. This represented a 7% increase from 2023 and became the highest level seen in 15 years.
Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, holds a confidence in the Group’s future, announcing a €30 million investment program to drive sustainability, enhance customer experience, and boost regional economic growth.
This milestone year, detailed in the Group’s 2024 annual report, underscores Shannon’s vital role in Ireland’s aviation sector and its commitment to connectivity, innovation, and economic impact.
Exceeding Growth Expectations
Shannon Airport’s 2024 success was fueled by robust performance across its 33 routes spanning 11 countries. “We welcomed over 2.1 million passengers, a 7% rise from 2023, driven by new routes and increased capacity,” Considine said.
The airport added over 200,000 seats for European, UK, and US destinations, boosting tourism and business travel.
Key markets thrived: continental European traffic surged 16% to 870,000 passengers. Meanwhile, transatlantic numbers climbed 12% to 332,000, and UK traffic grew slightly to 839,000.
From 2022 to 2024, Shannon’s passenger numbers skyrocketed by 44%, making it Ireland’s fastest-growing airport. Transatlantic services excelled, with five routes operated by Aer Lingus, Delta, and United, cementing Shannon’s role as a key transatlantic hub.
Ryanair also marked a milestone, celebrating 20 million passengers since 1987 and launching a new Madeira service alongside increased frequencies on eight routes, boosting summer 2025 capacity by 17%.
Ireland’s Favourite Airport
Shannon’s customer focus earned it the title of Ireland’s favourite airport in the 2024 Ireland Customer Experience Insights (CXi) Report.
It also secured the Best CX Team award in the transport category for the second year running, alongside accolades like the RED C Brand Reaction Index and the Aviation Customer Focus Achievement award.
The Shannon Airport Business Park’s initiatives won the Placemaking Initiative of the Year award, highlighting the Group’s broader impact.
Strong Financial Performance
The Group’s financial results for 2024 were equally impressive. Turnover from continuing operations rose 7.6% to €73.1 million, with an EBITDA of €18.3 million.
The Group reported a profit of €25.7 million before tax and exceptional items. This was supported by a robust balance sheet of €309 million. “This profitability provides a solid foundation for our future plans,” Considine noted, signaling confidence in the Group’s development strategy.
Investment for a Sustainable Future
In 2024, Shannon Airport Group invested over €8 million, with plans for an additional €30 million. This will advance sustainability, infrastructure, and customer experience.
Customer-facing upgrades include enhancements to the immigration and baggage halls. The project will also see an extension of Boarding Gates 1-5, and 1,000 new carpark spaces.
The Shannon Airport Business Park welcomed Frontier Scientific Solutions, a US-based logistics firm, to its new Block S facility, reinforcing its status as a hub for FDI and local businesses.
A Decade of Economic Impact
Marking its tenth anniversary in 2024, the Shannon Airport Group reflected on a decade of transformative contributions.
With €180 million invested in the airport and commercial properties, the Group generates nearly €4 billion annually for Ireland’s economy and supports over 20,000 jobs.
“Our impact extends beyond aviation, driving tourism, trade, and regional growth,” Considine said, emphasizing the Group’s role as a catalyst for positive change.
Navigating Challenges, Seizing Opportunities
Despite global uncertainties in 2025, Shannon Airport Group remains committed to innovation and resilience. Considine welcomed the National Programme for Government’s pledge to review National Aviation Policy, which could maximize regional airports’ potential.
“We urge the Government to expand the 2026-2030 Regional Airports Programme to support balanced economic growth,” she said, aligning with Project Ireland 2040 and the National Planning Framework.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Shannon Airport Group is poised for a transformative year. Plans include expanding the route network, enhancing passenger experiences, and advancing sustainability initiatives.
“Our growth reflects the dedication of our team, the support of our partners, and the loyalty of our passengers,” Considine said. “Customer care will remain at the heart of everything we do in 2025.”
Shannon Airport Group’s 2024 achievements set the stage for an ambitious future. With record passenger numbers, strong financials, and strategic investments, the Group is well-positioned to drive connectivity, sustainability, and economic growth.
By fostering innovation and collaboration, Shannon Airport Group continues to soar, delivering value for passengers, businesses, and the region while shaping a brighter, greener future for Irish aviation.
Buy Our Magazine!
