Shannon Airport (SNN/EINN): Your Essential Gateway to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and Seamless US Preclearance
Shannon Airport (SNN) is one of Ireland’s three primary international gateways, strategically located in County Clare and serving as the key aviation hub for the Mid-West region and the famed Wild Atlantic Way. Historically significant as the birthplace of the world’s first duty-free shop in 1947, SNN today is celebrated for its commitment to innovation, efficiency, and customer experience.
The airport is experiencing remarkable growth, having reported a 16% year-on-year jump in summer passenger traffic for 2025, welcoming over 755,000 passengers across the peak season. Its unparalleled feature is the provision of Full US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance, making it one of the most efficient transatlantic departure points globally. This unique status allows passengers to complete all US immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before departure, arriving in the United States as a domestic passenger.
Unrivalled US Preclearance Facility: Your Fast Track to America
Shannon Airport is a premier location for transatlantic travel due to its full US Preclearance facilities, a service that significantly speeds up the arrival process in the United States.
- Key Benefit: Passengers and their luggage are cleared for entry into the US while still in Ireland. Upon landing in the US, travellers can bypass all inspection lines and proceed directly to their connecting flight or final destination.
- Streamlined Process: The journey is further enhanced by the introduction of the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app (New for 2024). This free app allows US-bound passengers to submit their travel documentation and customs declaration electronically, reducing processing time at the Preclearance facility.
- Operating Hours: Passengers are advised to allow a minimum of 60 minutes for the Preclearance process. The facility’s operational hours are designed to align with the transatlantic flight schedule.
Terminal Features, Modern Amenities, and the €30 Million Investment
SNN operates a single, compact, and modern terminal, praised for its ease of use and efficient security screening process.
- Amenities: The airport offers free, unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, multiple dining options (including the popular Sheridan Food Pub), and high-quality retail outlets.
- Executive Lounges: Business and premium class passengers can relax in one of the airport’s executive lounges, such as the Golden Circle Lounge or the Rineanna Suite.
- Infrastructure Upgrade: The €30 million investment programme is currently transforming the passenger experience. This includes a significant 4,800 square foot extension to the gate areas, as well as essential modernisations to the Immigration and baggage handling systems to accommodate continued passenger growth.
- Awards and Recognition: Shannon Airport holds the distinction of being certified as one of the world’s first Age-Friendly Airports by the WHO and has consistently received national recognition for excellence in customer service.
Airlines, Expanding Route Network, and 2026 Growth Outlook
SNN is served by major international carriers, leveraging its 3.2 km runway—Ireland’s longest—to facilitate long-haul operations.
- Key Airlines: Ryanair, Aer Lingus, United, Delta, and American Airlines.
- Winter 2025/2026 Expansion: Following a strong summer, the airport has cemented its winter schedule with exciting new routes, including Madrid, a year-round service to Madeira, and seasonal flights to Rovaniemi (Lapland).
- Future Transatlantic Growth (2026): Aer Lingus is expanding its Shannon–Boston schedule for Summer 2026. Furthermore, Discover Airlines (part of the Lufthansa Group) will launch a new twice-weekly Shannon-Frankfurt service for the Summer 2026 season, providing connectivity to 59 new global destinations.
- Overall Connectivity: The airport boasts an expanding network of 36 services to 11 countries, including five daily transatlantic flights, catering to both holidaymakers and business travellers.
Connectivity, Ground Transport, and Airport Infrastructure
Shannon Airport is well-integrated into the regional road network, ensuring straightforward access to Ireland’s West and Mid-West.
- Road Access: Located on the N19 national route, which connects directly to the M18/N18 motorway network, providing excellent links to Limerick (25 mins), Ennis, and Galway.
- Bus Services: Bus Éireann operates frequent services, including Route 343 to Limerick and Ennis, and Route 51 (Expressway) connecting to Limerick and Galway.
- Parking: The airport offers extensive car parking with over 5,000 spaces. An ongoing investment plan is adding an additional 1,000 new spaces to the Park4Less car park to meet the surging demand.
- Car Rental: All major car rental firms, including Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise, are conveniently located in the Arrivals Hall.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Aviation
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Shannon Airport’s operational strategy, highlighted by several pioneering initiatives.
- Solar PV Farm: Construction is underway for Ireland’s first solar PV farm on an airfield, a flagship project designed to supply a significant portion of the airport’s electricity needs and underscore its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
- Environmental Stewardship: The Shannon Airport Group has received national awards, including the Chambers Ireland Environment & Biodiversity Award for its conservation work, showcasing its dedication to environmental stewardship alongside operational excellence.
Contact Information
- Address: Shannon Airport, Co Clare, IRELAND
- Telephone: +353 61 712000
- Website: www.shannonairport.ie