From left to right: Paul McDonagh (Tourism Ireland), Gillian Griffin (Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Resort), Adrienne O’Flynn (Shannon Heritage), Jarlath O’Dwyer (Burren Ecotourism Network), Siobhan McManamy (Tourism Ireland), Alison Metcalfe (EVP, North America Tourism Ireland), Mary Considine (CEO, The Shannon Airport Group), Ruth Vaughan (The Savoy Hotel), Edel Vaughan (The Doolin Ferry Company), Maura Larson (Caherconnell Fort and Sheepdog Demonstrations), Dan Irvine (The Shannon Airport Group), Dana Welch (Tourism Ireland)
Gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way
New York, September 14, 2022,
Tourism Ireland is delighted to welcome The Shannon Airport Group to the US this week and continue a long-standing partnership in highlighting the very best of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and the ease of access through its gateway airport at Shannon.
Shannon Airport is a perfect choice to discover some of the most stunning locations on the island of Ireland including the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren and the Ring of Kerry.
An international airport with a regional feel, Shannon currently offers daily non-stop transatlantic flights to New York JFK, NY Newark and Boston with airlines such as Aer Lingus, and United.
Shannon airport also operates US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance which means visitors will return to the US as domestic passengers.
| Returning to the US from Shannon is a breeze and new time-saving initiatives make it even easier for passengers. The airport’s newly introduced security screening technology abolishes the 100ml rule, eliminating the need to remove liquids, gels and electronics from cabin bags. In addition, the airport operates a combined TSA/EU checkpoint which means only one security check is required, it is the only airport in the world to have this system in place. |
Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Executive Vice President, North America and Australia/NZ, said, “We are rolling out a dedicated campaign to highlight Shannon as the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way to remind US travellers of the ease of access with direct flights from New York and Boston. The campaign will run across digital and social channels supported by digital outdoor billboards in New York, Boston and New Jersey. through November. The Shannon region delegation, led by The Shannon Airport Group, brings with them an important message showcasing the unique nature of a trip to this stunning part of the island and the many immersive experiences to be enjoyed by visitors.
Ms. Metcalfe continued, “We know from our research that there is significant pent-up demand among travellers to return to the island of Ireland and we look forward to communicating with consumers, and our trade partners in the US, the great experiences and the warm welcome that awaits the length and breadth of the Wild Atlantic Way.”
Shannon Airport is also conveniently located to some of Ireland’s leading luxury accommodations including Dromoland Castle, Gregans Castle, and the Park Hotel Kenmare.
It’s also a superb entry point to tee it up at some of the finest golf courses in the world at Lahinch, Ballybunion, Doonbeg, Tralee and Adare Manor. The stunning property at Adare Manor will host the Ryder Cup in 2027, while the upcoming KPMG Women’s Irish Open will take place at Dromoland Castle.
Mary Considine, CEO, The Shannon Airport Group said, “Shannon Airport is the life blood of our region, and we are proud of the role we play in supporting the business, aviation and tourism sectors that are so vital to the regional and national economy.
Ms Considine continued, ‘Recently rebranded as ‘The Shannon Airport Group’ we embark on our next chapter in shaping opportunities in aviation and property, and supporting our region as a thriving, connected place to live, work, learn and spend vacation time. We look forward to continuing our special relationship with the US and reconnecting with our American friends and offering them the warmest of Irish welcomes and the travel and vacation experience of a lifetime.”
A short drive to Limerick, Shannon airport is also less than 90 minutes from the cities of Galway and Cork. Its hinterland boasts destination highlights such as Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Knappogue Castle and Skellig Michael – a UNESCO World Heritage site. Top culinary landmarks include the Burren Smokehouse, The Wild Honey Inn, and Aniar, a Michelin Starred restaurant located in Galway’s West End.
The region is a hotbed for sports with golf being joined by hurling, gaelic football and rugby as definite highlights for any trip. Limerick are the current All-Ireland Hurling champions and no visit to this area is complete without catching a Munster Rugby game at Thomand Park or checking out the newly opened ‘Irish Rugby Experience’ in Limerick city.
Irish partners joining The Shannon Airport Group for travel trade and media events in New York and Boston this week include – Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, Burren Ecotourism Network, Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations, The Doolin Ferry Co, Shannon Heritage and The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.
