Shannon Airport Passenger Numbers Soar 29% in 2023, Aiming for 2 Million in 2024

Shannon Airport experienced a strong resurgence in passenger traffic in 2023, with numbers increasing by 29% to reach 1.959 million, the highest level since 2009. The airport saw growth across all key markets, including a 41% increase in Continental European traffic to 748,000 passengers, a 31% increase in UK traffic to 838,000 passengers, and a 24% increase in transatlantic passenger numbers to 296,000.

The airport's service offering was boosted with new Ryanair routes to destinations such as Naples, Porto, Béziers, and Liverpool, as well as increased capacity on popular routes. Shannon also launched a new Aer Lingus service to Paris Charles de Gaulle. Transatlantic services received a major boost with the launch of a new daily Chicago service by United Airlines.

Why this matters: Shannon Airport's strong recovery and growth in passenger numbers demonstrate the resilience of the travel industry post-pandemic. The airport's expanding route network and increased capacity are expected to drive economic benefits for the region, supporting tourism and business travel.

The Shannon Airport Group delivered a strong financial performance in 2023, with a 12% increase in group turnover to just under €68 million and a 27% increase in EBITDA to over €21 million. The group continued its capital investment program, including the delivery of new industrial and R&D units at the Shannon Campus, and made progress in its sustainability initiatives, achieving Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 2 certification.

Shannon Airport CEO Mary Considine expressed optimism about the opportunities ahead, stating, "We are committed to building on this momentum and are excited about the growth opportunities in the years ahead. Our focus remains on prioritizing our customer's experience and ensuring that Shannon Airport continues to be the airport of choice for our passengers." The airport is aiming to reach the two million passenger mark by the end of 2024, which would mark the first time hitting this milestone since 2009.

Key Takeaways

• Shannon Airport passenger traffic increased 29% to 1.959 million in 2023, highest since 2009.
• Growth across key markets: 41% increase in Continental Europe, 31% in UK, 24% in transatlantic.
• New routes added, including Ryanair to Naples, Porto, Béziers, Liverpool, and Aer Lingus to Paris.
• Shannon Airport Group saw 12% increase in turnover to €68 million and 27% increase in EBITDA to €21 million.
• Airport aims to reach 2 million passengers by end of 2024, a milestone last achieved in 2009.