 |
| Image: Shannon Airport |
Shannon Airport today celebrated the beginning of a new era for Ireland’s most historic airport as it officially became an independent entity overnight following separation from Dublin Airport Authority (DAA). The Separation officially took place at 2359 last night, with the first passengers to transit through the newly autonomous airport arriving on board the Aer Lingus EIN110 from New York JFK 0508 this morning.
The theme of ‘Just Think How Far We Can Go’ has been chosen as the motif for the airport’s independence. This message is very evident across the terminal complex, with banners draped on the facade of the terminal building, signs along the approach road and banners & floor signs inside the terminal.
The airport will commence operations on a solid footing by way of a debt free balance sheet and a business plan with an immediate focus on growing passenger numbers and route development.
The airport will also work towards the development of the International Aviation Services Centre at Shannon, which is targeting the creation of a significant number of primarily aviation related jobs within a three to five year period, building on the existing cluster of 40 aviation related companies in Shannon currently.
The second of a two-phase process for the new Shannon Airport entity will see the merging of the Airport by 1st July, with activities of a restructured Shannon Development, including its considerable land-bank and associated rent-roll.
Shannon Airport Authority Chairman Rose Hynes said “Today is ‘Independence Day’ for Shannon – this is a historic day for us. We finally have our long awaited freedom to determine our own future. Independence is the single most important enabler of future success for Shannon. This is an opportunity for the airport to commence a new chapter in its proud history “.
Shannon Airport Director Mary Considine said “We are setting out today to create a vibrant and sustainable future for this airport, its staff, customers and the wider region”.
Irish Aviation Research Institute © 1st January 2013 All Rights Reserved.
