I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality with a deep background in travel and tourism. Her extensive experience in the industry, combined with her passion for entertainment and events, makes her the perfect person to shed light on the exciting developments at Shannon Airport. Today, we’ll dive into the airport’s bustling October Bank Holiday weekend, the launch of their winter schedule with fresh routes, and what this growth means for travelers and the region. From passenger trends to operational strategies, Katarina will give us an insider’s perspective on how Shannon Airport is soaring to new heights.
Can you walk us through the buzz at Shannon Airport during the October Bank Holiday weekend?
Absolutely, William. Shannon Airport is gearing up for a massive weekend, expecting over 46,000 passengers. That’s a 9% jump from last year, which really shows how much traveler confidence has grown in 2025. This surge isn’t just a number—it reflects the airport’s strong momentum after a stellar summer and signals how vital it is as a hub for the region. People are eager to travel, whether for quick getaways or family holidays, and the timing of the holiday weekend makes it a peak period.
What’s the significance of launching the winter schedule right around this busy holiday period?
The timing couldn’t be better. Rolling out the winter schedule at the end of October aligns perfectly with the shift in travel patterns as people start planning colder-season escapes or holiday trips. It’s a strategic move for Shannon Airport to introduce new routes and boost frequencies now, ensuring they capture that demand early. This launch isn’t just about adding flights; it’s about positioning the airport for sustained growth through the quieter months and keeping the momentum from summer alive.
Speaking of new routes, can you tell us more about the exciting destinations being added to Shannon’s lineup?
I’m thrilled to talk about these! Ryanair is kicking off a unique flight to Lapland on October 27, just in time for the Bank Holiday Monday. It’s a magical destination, especially for families dreaming of a winter wonderland. Then, there’s the new Madrid service starting the next day, which opens up a vibrant cultural hub for both leisure and business travelers. And don’t forget the year-round route to Madeira—after huge summer demand, extending it into winter is a smart way to cater to those craving sunny escapes. These additions are generating a lot of excitement.
With over 220 weekly flights to 24 destinations, how does Shannon Airport balance such a diverse network?
It’s all about understanding traveler needs. Shannon has a great mix of destinations, from popular leisure spots like Lanzarote and Malaga with Ryanair to key transatlantic routes like New York and Boston with Aer Lingus. The UK and European connections, such as Liverpool and Paris, also draw steady crowds. By offering something for everyone—whether it’s a beach holiday, a city break, or a long-haul trip—they’ve created a robust network that keeps passengers coming back. The balance comes from constantly monitoring demand and adjusting services to match.
There’s been talk of a fantastic start to 2025 and a busy summer. What’s behind this success at Shannon Airport?
The success stems from a combination of factors. This summer saw incredible demand for travel, with people making up for lost time and prioritizing vacations. Shannon capitalized on that with strong scheduling and reliable operations. Their ability to maintain high traveler confidence—through consistent service and expanding options—has been key. That energy from summer naturally spills into fall and winter, as passengers see Shannon as a dependable and growing hub for their travel plans.
How is the airport gearing up to handle the rush of passengers over this holiday weekend?
Preparation is everything during peak times like this. Shannon’s team is laser-focused on streamlining operations—think extra staff at check-in and security to keep lines moving, and close coordination to manage the high volume of flights. They’re also tackling potential challenges head-on, like ensuring parking and ground services keep pace with demand. The goal is to make the experience as seamless as possible, even when the terminals are packed with holiday travelers.
What tips can you share for passengers navigating Shannon Airport during such a busy time?
I’d highly recommend downloading the Shannon Airport App—it’s a game-changer for real-time flight updates and terminal info, so you’re never caught off guard. Also, pre-booking parking is a must. Not only do you snag better rates, but you’re guaranteed a spot during peak times. It’s super easy to do through their website or app. Arriving prepared with these tools can turn a potentially stressful travel day into a smooth one.
Looking ahead, what’s your forecast for Shannon Airport’s growth and role in regional aviation?
I’m very optimistic about Shannon’s future. With this 9% passenger increase and the strategic addition of routes like Lapland and Madrid, they’re solidifying their place as a key player in regional aviation. I expect their growth to continue as they tap into diverse markets—both leisure and business—and keep enhancing connectivity. The focus on traveler experience and operational efficiency will likely draw even more passengers in the coming years, making Shannon a cornerstone for travel in the west of Ireland.
