Shannon Airport (SNN)
History, Facts and Overview
(Shannon, Co. Clare, Ireland)
Although a small aerodrome was in place next to the Shannon Estuary for arriving 'boat planes', there was little room for expansion when it became clear that a runway was needed. In 1942, the Shannon Airport of today was finally opened, after more than five years of planning and construction, which involved draining a huge expanse of marshland.
Soon after opening, transatlantic services forced the need to extend the runways and the post-war years proved a busy time for growth, when Shannon Airport became known as a major stepping stone between Europe and the USA. Pan American Airways was amongst the most popular airlines operating at that time.
During the sixties, Shannon Airport waned in popularity as the next generation of planes now no longer needed to re-fuel here. However, Aer Lingus decided to increase its popular transatlantic flights and by the mid-1970s, the airport was in possession of a new terminal building and passenger numbers of around 500,000 per annum. More recently, budget Ryanair flights have ensured that passenger levels continue to rise and Shannon International Airport (SNN) has proved its suitability for modern Airbus flights.
Shannon International Airport (SNN) is a modern airport with all the facilities a traveller needs when waiting for a flight overseas. The terminal complex has refreshment outlets serving fresh food and beverages, making your wait as pleasant and relaxing as possible. There is also the opportunity to shop at Shannon Airport and purchase a range of duty-free goods, with the main stores including Travel Value, Londis, Celtic Memories and the Hughes and Hughes bookstore.
The airport has banking and bureau de change facilities, as well as a postal service. There are also two executive lounges for travellers who require a higher standard of service, the Rineanna Suite and the Golden Circle Lounge. Accommodation is located just outside the main airport terminal building and a number of other hotels are situated extremely close to Shannon. VIP rooms for conference and corporate events can be booked in advance.
