Ryanair has issued a warning regarding its planned €50 million investment at Shannon Airport, stating that it will cancel the project if the necessary construction permits for a new maintenance center in Ireland are not issued promptly. The airline indicated it may shift the project to Poland as a result.
According to Irish media, the proposal includes constructing a new maintenance hangar with four parking bays and an adjacent engineering academy. This expansion could create around 300 highly skilled jobs for mechanics and technical staff in County Clare.
Currently, Ryanair employs over 200 people in its aircraft maintenance division at Shannon Airport. The new facility aims to meet the growing demands of its expanding fleet and provide training for the next generation of skilled workers.
Bureaucratic Hurdles Delay Construction Start
The construction permit application is currently on hold due to concerns raised by the local governing body, Clare County Council. The main point of contention involves the proposed soil embankment for storing contaminated soil at the airport.
The airline is pressing for construction to begin early next year to adhere to its tight maintenance schedule. Reports from RTÉ indicate that company management is becoming increasingly frustrated with the administrative delays.
Ryanair’s Chief Operating Officer, Neal McMahon, emphasized that the airline is prepared to invest €50 million immediately. However, he made it clear that the company will not accept prolonged bureaucratic procedures if alternative locations are available.
