Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 October 2023
39. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport his views on Shannon Airport permanently remaining part of the regional airports programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43155/23]
View answerThe Regional Airports Programme (RAP) for the period 2021 to 2025 supports Ireland’s smallest airports i.e., those that provide connectivity and handle fewer than 1 million passengers annually (based on an average over the two preceding financial years).
By virtue of its size and passenger numbers Shannon Airport was not eligible for funding under the RAP until 2022. At that time Shannon airport became eligible due to supressed passenger numbers in 2020 and 2021 as a direct result of COVID-19 and continued to remain eligible under the RAP this year. Based on forecast passenger numbers for 2023 Shannon airport will not be eligible for funding under the RAP in 2024.
A mid-term review of the Programme is however currently underway. The review will consider how the RAP is currently delivering on its objectives, primarily in the context of supporting connectivity and balanced regional development. The potential inclusion of airports of up to 3 million annual passengers (which would facilitate the inclusion of Shannon airport) is being considered as part of the review. The review is due to be complete later this year.
Over the period 2020-2022 Shannon Airport has benefited from unprecedented aviation Exchequer supports, totalling over €34 million, with a further €12.6 million made available for funding consideration and allocation in 2023. This funding has facilitated the strong recovery of Shannon Airport, with 2023 being the best year for passenger numbers since 2009.
