Shannon Airport’s steady recovery in passenger numbers continued for a third consecutive month in August, figures revealed by the airport today show.

Passenger numbers for the month show that 170,000 people travelled through Shannon in August, a 3% increase on August 2012.

The increase comes on the back of strong gains also in June – the first time in five years that growth was seen in month-over-month figures – and July.

Transatlantic services again showed the greatest uplift in August, with 35% more passengers travelling between Shannon and the US/Canada compared to 12 months ago.  Overall, passenger numbers for the airport have now increased by 7% over the three key summer months and 37% on transatlantic services during that same period.

Welcoming the increase, Shannon Airport CEO Neil Pakey said that the figures prove there is real likelihood that the extra seasonal US flights will return to Shannon next year.  He also said that there is a possibility that more flights may be operated, with airlines considering lengthening their seasonal operations into the shoulder periods leading into and coming out of the key summer months.

“I have been impressed by just how much US visitors are pleased to be using Shannon Airport as the gateway to the region, not only to Clare, Limerick and Tipperary but particularly to Galway and Kerry, two of the key markets for inbound transatlantic passengers.

“A major bonus for the Galway market will be the completion of the motorway from Gort to Galway and further up to Tuam as this will really enhance accessibility to and from Shannon. 

“Works on this motorway are due to commence next year and it is essential that they are completed without delay. We hope we can also look forward to more US visitors into Limerick given its City of Culture status.

“The recent commitment for a major upgrade of the N69 to Foynes is also most welcome as it will also give Kerry-bound passengers another scenic option, along the Shannon Estuary.”