Over 56,000 passengers set to travel through Shannon Airport over May Bank Holiday period, up 9% on 2025

Shannon Airport is getting ready for a busy May bank holiday period, with more than 56,000 passengers expected to travel through the airport. This represents an increase of 9% on the same period in 2025 and reflects the growing demand for travel from the West of Ireland.

Passengers flying from Shannon this year have plenty of choice, with 40 routes available across Europe, the UK, and the US. Demand has been boosted by the launch of new city break routes for 2026, including Rome, Madrid, and Frankfurt, while sunspots such as Malaga, Alicante, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura remain among the most popular destinations.

Speaking ahead of the bank holiday weekend, Niall Kearns, Airport Director of Shannon Airport said: “We’ve had a really strong start to the year, with solid increases in passenger numbers across the February, St Patrick’s Day and Easter bank holiday periods, so it’s great to see that continue into May and the beginning of the summer season.  We genuinely believe the holiday experience should begin at the airport, and our teams are excited to look after passengers and help make their journey as enjoyable as possible. With 1,000 additional car parking spaces, a handy app putting flight information at your fingertips, a strong range of accessibility supports and a friendly welcome for everyone, we’re focused on keeping things as hassle‑free as possible from the moment people arrive.”

The positive start to the summer coincides with this week’s launch of Shannon’s “Win Your Holiday Wishlist” 100 flights giveaway, the biggest competition ever run by the airport which has teamed up with new brand ambassador, travel guru Kathryn Thomas. The giveaway gives people the chance to win flights to exciting European cities, sun-soaked holiday hotspots, and popular US destinations.

As well as departing passengers from across Ireland, the airport will also welcome inbound visitors from Europe, the UK, and the US over the May bank holiday period. Many of these visitors will enjoy a Wild Atlantic Way journey, spending time locally and enjoying the area’s attractions, hospitality, and tourism experiences, providing an economic boost for businesses right along the route.

For the best value car parking, passengers are advised to pre‑book online at www.shannonairport.ie or via the Shannon Airport app.