03 March 2026, Limerick City: Limerick Chamber of Commerce has warmly welcomed Minister O’Brien’s decision to include Shannon Airport in the Regional Airports Programme 2026–2030. The Chamber described the announcement as a pivotal step in strengthening the Mid-West’s competitiveness, connectivity, and capacity for economic development.
The inclusion of Shannon Airport in the programme underscores its strategic role as an international gateway for the Mid-West and the broader Western region. The airport supports key sectors such as foreign direct investment, indigenous enterprise, tourism, higher education collaboration, and balanced regional development.
Limerick Chamber highlighted that the decision follows years of sustained, evidence-led advocacy by the Chamber. This included commissioning and promoting the landmark report “Assessment of Aviation Policy as a Driver of Economic Development in the West and Mid-West of Ireland”, which presented a compelling economic case for enhancing Shannon’s policy standing. The Chamber has also made numerous submissions to policy consultations, engaged with elected representatives and stakeholders, and consistently championed Shannon’s inclusion through annual Budget submissions.
Seán Golden, Chief Economist and Director of Policy at Limerick Chamber, Commented:
This is a highly significant and welcome decision by the Minister, recognising the critical role Shannon Airport plays in driving the Mid-West economy. 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.
While celebrating the announcement, Limerick Chamber emphasised the need for an updated National Aviation Policy to ensure Ireland’s aviation framework aligns with the ambitions of Project Ireland 2040.
“While this inclusion is a vital step forward, it must be complimented 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.”
The Chamber also welcomed the upcoming launch of a new Frankfurt flight from Shannon Airport, set to commence in April 2026. This service is expected to enhance international access for both business and 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.”
Next Priorities
Limerick Chamber called for continued focus on the following priorities:
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Ensuring the Regional Airports Programme delivers meaningful, multi-annual support for Shannon Airport’s connectivity and competitiveness.
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Aligning aviation policy with national spatial planning and investment priorities under Project Ireland 2040.
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Advancing a coordinated regional approach to route development that supports enterprise, tourism, and skills ecosystems across the Mid-West.
Limerick Chamber remains committed to advocating for policies and initiatives that enhance the region’s connectivity and economic potential.
