A Celebration of an Industry Legend – Mr. Declan Power

The annual Travel Media USA Soirée delivered all of the warmth, friendship and networking that has made this event one of the highlights of the Irish travel industry calendar. As guests of our valued partners Visit Annapolis, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau and Shannon Airport, the Travelbiz Bees—Don, Ita, Peter and Jacinta—were privileged to join colleagues, media friends and travel trade partners from across Ireland for an evening filled with celebration, laughter and appreciation.

However, for the Travelbiz team, the evening belonged to one man.

Mr. Shannon Airport – Declan Power

As Declan Power prepares to retire later this year after an outstanding career with Shannon Airport, the 2026 Travel Media USA Soirée became much more than another industry gathering. It became a heartfelt celebration of one of Irish travel’s most respected, admired and genuinely loved ambassadors.

This year’s Soirée marked what is expected to be Declan’s final appearance at the event in his official Shannon Airport role—a fitting milestone for a man whose commitment to aviation, tourism and the Irish travel trade has spanned decades.

Throughout his career, Declan has become synonymous with Shannon Airport. His professionalism, warmth, generosity and unwavering support for travel agents, tour operators, airlines, destinations, media partners and industry colleagues have made him one of the most recognisable and respected personalities in Irish travel.

Whether representing Shannon Airport at international trade events, welcoming industry partners to the West of Ireland, supporting new route development or simply taking the time to chat with colleagues, Declan has always represented the very best of Irish hospitality.

A Career Built on Relationships

In an industry built on relationships, few have nurtured them quite like Declan.

His passion for aviation has always been matched by an infectious enthusiasm for promoting Shannon Airport, the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland as a gateway to the world. Over the years, he has worked alongside countless airlines, tourism organisations, overseas destinations and travel professionals, helping to strengthen international partnerships that continue to benefit Irish travellers today.

Those who know Declan will also know his legendary sense of humour. While his table on the night may have been described (with a smile) as the “always very quiet and subdued” table, anyone fortunate enough to have spent time in his company knows that laughter has always been one of his greatest trademarks.

More Than a Colleague

For many across the industry, Declan has been far more than a colleague.

He has been a mentor, a trusted friend, an advocate for the travel trade and a true gentleman whose integrity and professionalism have earned universal respect.

The standing affection shown throughout the evening demonstrated just how highly regarded he is by everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside him over the years.

Is This Really the Final Soirée?

Knowing Declan, we somehow suspect there could still be another chapter to this remarkable story.

Retirement may simply mean a new adventure, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see one of Irish travel’s most recognisable faces continuing to contribute to an industry he has served with such distinction.

Watch this space!

Travelbiz Salutes a True Industry Legend

Over the coming weeks and months, Travelbiz will continue to celebrate Declan Power’s extraordinary career, sharing stories, memories and tributes from the many friends and colleagues whose lives and careers he has touched.

Few individuals leave a legacy that spans generations of travel professionals. Declan Power is undoubtedly one of them.

From everyone at Travelbiz, thank you, Declan, for your friendship, your professionalism, your passion and your unwavering commitment to the Irish travel industry.

You have been an exceptional ambassador for Shannon Airport, an outstanding supporter of the travel trade and, above all, one of the true gentlemen of our industry.

Congratulations on an incredible career. We wish you every happiness in the exciting journey that lies ahead.