Ryan Air Announces Fourth Aircraft Based at Shannon Airport

Michelle Warmuz, 18 June 2025

Ryanair, known as Europe and Ireland's no. 1 airline, has announced the release of its fourth aircraft, a Boeing 737-8200. It will be based at Shannon airport, coinciding with new flight routes to Northern Europe, Portugal and Spain, along with increased flights to other popular holiday destinations.

Flights have increased, but so too have job prospects, with an estimated additional 1,500 jobs to be appointed, including pilot, cabin crew and engineering roles. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Ryanair launched a 2-day seat sale with fares starting as low as €29.99.

Ryanair has been in operation for approximately 39 years, having been founded in 1984 with its first flight in 1985 between Waterford, Ireland, and London Gatwick airports. The airline then focused on a low-cost strategy inspired by Southwest Airlines in the 1990s. It is expected that Shannon Airport will see a spike in air traffic to over 1.6 million passengers each year as Ryanair continues to invest in the growth of regional airports, aiming to drive tourism inward towards the Emerald Isles and outward in a bid to increase international connections.

Shannon Airport, located in County Clare, Ireland, is situated in the southwest of Ireland, approximately 24 km (15 miles) from Limerick and 15 miles from Ennis. It is the country's second-largest long-haul airport, with Dublin being the largest, and the most westerly international airport in Europe.

The airport is well-known for its transatlantic flights and US preclearance facility, which allows passengers to clear US customs and immigration before boarding their flights. The airport is also proud to own the longest runway in Ireland.

Shannon's local region is also a popular starting point for exploring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500 km (1,600-mile) scenic coastal driving route along Ireland's dramatic western edge, showcasing rugged landscapes, charming towns, and rich Irish culture.