Further funding announced for Ireland West Airport

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary, TD, has announced that Ireland West Airport Knock is to receive almost €2.8 million in government funding under Regional Airports Capital Funding 2026.

The Mayo Minister said he was delighted to receive confirmation from his colleague Minister Darragh O’Brien of the investment.

“A significant programme of works is planned with this funding including Electricial Upgrades, Solar PV Farm (Year 2 of 2), Automated Weather Observing System, Apron Safety and Remedial Works, Security Upgrade Works, Aeronautical Ground Lighting Updates and Airfield Rubber Removal and Line Marking.

“This is another significant investment for Knock, the jewel in the crown of Mayo and the West and I am very pleased that Minister O’Brien continues to support the development of the airport, thus allowing for expansion and development to meet the demands of ever-growing passenger numbers. Fianna Fáil has always been a steadfast supporter of the airport at Knock from its original concept through the efforts of Monsignor James Horan to its opening and I am pleased to confirm this funding and my commitment to the airport on this the 40th anniversary of the opening of the facility. This investment underlines our commitment to Knock and to regional connectivity. The airport continues to grow and move forward – it is a real success story and a source of pride for Mayo and Connacht. I wish Managing Director Joe Gilmore and all his team a busy and fulfilling summer period and congratulate the Board, Management and Staff of the airport on its 40th anniversary celebrations.”

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Minister for Transport O’Brien has announced a total allocation of almost €8 million in Exchequer funding to Regional Airports under the Regional Airports Programme 2026-2030.

He said: “I am pleased to allocate almost €8 million in capital funding this year to support Shannon, Ireland West (Knock), Kerry and Donegal airports. This level of targeted support, provided under this Government’s new Regional Airports Programme 2026-2030, is an indication of the importance Government attaches to regional airports. This funding will support connectivity and balanced regional development, while seeking to maximise the use of existing capacity across our regional airports.”

Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney said: “Strong, well-connected regional airports are essential to economic development, tourism and job creation. The Regional Airports Programme funding helps our airports to meet future demand and to further build their resilience.

“I’m pleased to see Shannon Airport now included in this programme, in addition to Ireland West Airport, Kerry and Donegal. These airports are critical pieces of national infrastructure and this investment will aid them as they continue to grow sustainably.”

Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer added: “This significant capital funding underlines the Government’s strong commitment to our regional airports. Shannon, Ireland West, Kerry and Donegal airports are not only vital to maintaining connectivity for the communities and businesses they serve, but act as gateways for visitors to some of the most beautiful parts of our country.”

The 2026 capital funding allocations for each airport are: