Travelbiz E-Zine
29
August
2023

Shannon Airport Unveils Second Instalment of the World’s Largest Private Collection of Diecast Model Aircraft

#Traveltradetogether

The second instalment of a permanent exhibition containing the world’s largest private collection of diecast model aircraft officially opens today at Shannon Airport.

The new Aviation Gallery, situated in the airport terminal building opposite JJ Ruddle’s restaurant, is a magnificent exhibition open to the general public. It offers a captivating journey through the evolution of aviation, showcasing an unparalleled collection, meticulously amassed over many years by Limerick man, Mike Kelly.

The first installation opened in 2018 and houses over 1,500 model aircraft in the Departures Lounge, making Shannon Airport a true haven for aviation enthusiasts.

Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, expressing her excitement about the new exhibition said, “Mike, through his determination and love of aviation, has managed to amass the largest private collection of model diecast aircraft in the world. It was important to all our employees to make the permanent collection free to view and accessible for the public to enjoy.

“Aviation is in our DNA at Shannon and we were inspired by the positive response we got from our airside model aircraft exhibition which we opened in 2018. This second installment of the collection is a fascinating journey through the evolution of aviation. It is a way of preserving a rich aviation heritage and is in keeping with an airport that has probably broken more frontiers than any other of its size in the world.”

The Aviation Gallery is suitable for visitors of all ages. From the early pioneers of aviation to the iconic planes that shaped commercial travel, this collection honours the ingenuity and progress of the aviation industry.

The new exhibition showcases over 900 model aircraft and an array of aircraft types from every corner of the world, dating back to the 1930s and extending to the present day. This new attraction is a testament to the lifelong passion and endless enthusiasm for all things aviation of  Mike Kelly (72), who has cherished his love for Shannon Airport since his childhood in the late 1950s.

Mike’s dedication to collecting these model aircraft, many of which are exceedingly rare, has resulted in a breathtaking display that is sure to captivate the hearts of the general public and aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

Among the impressive models on display are the full collection of Concordes, a complete fleet of VC 10’s, the legendary Sunderland aircraft once owned by Al Capone, and the Super Trailer Limited, the oldest aircraft replicated in the collection.

In addition, the gallery also features the full collection of Ryanair and Aer Lingus aircraft, alongside the iconic Antonov 225 carrying the space shuttle – a testament to Shannon Airport’s historic designation as an alternate landing strip for the US Space Shuttle, thanks to its long runway.

Mike Kelly, the collector extraordinaire, shared his profound love for Shannon Airport and his passion for the model aircraft on display, saying, “Shannon Airport holds a special place in my heart. As a young boy, watching planes take off and land ignited my fascination with aviation, and that passion has never waned. I am incredibly grateful to Shannon Airport for helping me share this extraordinary collection with the world. Many of these model aircraft are extremely rare and hold a wealth of history and significance. It is a dream come true to see them on display here at Shannon Airport.”

The first exhibition, unveiled in 2018, has been a tremendous success, drawing famous visitors such as aviation enthusiast and Hollywood icon John Travolta, who is a regular visitor to Shannon Airport.

The Aviation Gallery promises to further enhance Shannon Airport’s reputation and exemplifies its constant focus on making it an easy and enjoyable experience for passengers and visitors alike.

Subscribe to our E-Zine

    More

    from latest edition

    Up to 25% Off plus Complimentary Amenity of Your Choice with Oceania Cruises
    14th February 2025

    Up to 25% Off plus Complimentary Amenity of Your Choice with Oceania Cruises

    Up to 25% Off plus Complimentary Amenity of Your Choice with Oceania Cruises

    Read more
    YOLO, Fly SOLO: United Airlines Shares How Travelers Can Treat Themselves Ahead of National Plan a Solo Vacation Day
    13th February 2025

    YOLO, Fly SOLO: United Airlines Shares How Travelers Can Treat Themselves Ahead of National Plan a Solo Vacation Day

    This love-filled February, solo travel is on the rise and United is sharing travel hacks, popular destinations and app features to empower adventurers to get ready for National Plan a Solo Vacat...

    Read more
    IAG Hires Heiko Heidusch as Senior Vice President of Strategic Airline Partnerships
    13th February 2025

    IAG Hires Heiko Heidusch as Senior Vice President of Strategic Airline Partnerships

    Heidusch joins IAG from Lufthansa Group and will lead IAG’s strategic partnerships team, reporting into Chief Commercial Strategy Officer, Julio Rodriguez. International Airlines Group (IAG) has...

    Read more
    Dubai Sees 14% Surge in UK Visitors, Welcoming 1.33 Million in 2024
    13th February 2025

    Dubai Sees 14% Surge in UK Visitors, Welcoming 1.33 Million in 2024

    In yet another remarkable annual performance, Dubai welcomed 1,327,000 UK visitors from January to December 2024, a 14% year-over-year increase that surpasses the previous year of 1,169,000 in 2...

    Read more
    Windstar Cruises’ Flagship Sailing Yacht Wind Surf Unveils Redesigned Public Spaces & New Suites
    13th February 2025

    Windstar Cruises’ Flagship Sailing Yacht Wind Surf Unveils Redesigned Public Spaces & New Suites

    Windstar’s flagship sailing yacht reveals the first stage of its refurbishment with refreshed public spaces, dining venues, and suites. Windstar Cruises’ flagship vessel, Wind Surf, has unveiled...

    Read more
    Crystal Sets New Standard: Faster Commission Payments for Travel Advisors
    13th February 2025

    Crystal Sets New Standard: Faster Commission Payments for Travel Advisors

    Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, has announced that it is redefining the way the brand supports its valued travel advisors with an unprecedented approach to commission paym...

    Read more