Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed Ryanair’s plans to invest €50 million in a major expansion of its engineering operations at Shannon Airport, describing it as a significant boost for the aviation sector, the wider western region and Ireland’s transport infrastructure.

The project, which is subject to planning approval, will see the construction of a new four-bay aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) hangar and a dedicated Ryanair Engineering Academy at Shannon Airport. The investment is expected to support the creation of more than 400 high-skilled jobs, including 80 new apprenticeship places, while training over 400 aircraft mechanics between 2027 and 2031.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister Canney said: “This is a very positive investment for Shannon Airport and for the wider western region. It strengthens Shannon’s position as one of Ireland’s leading aviation hubs while creating high-quality jobs, expanding apprenticeship opportunities and investing in the next generation of aviation engineers.”

“The aviation sector is hugely important to the west of Ireland, and investments like this help build long-term skills, strengthen regional employment and support sustainable growth. It also reinforces Shannon Airport’s strategic importance within Ireland’s transport network and its role in supporting the country’s growing aviation industry.”