Shannon aircraft plant closer to take-off

The manufacture of aircraft in Ireland for the first time moved a step closer yesterday.

This followed the creator of a revolutionary light- aircraft, the Speedtwin Comet1, stating yesterday that he is working closely with Shannon Airport Authority with a view to establishing a manufacturing base for his aircraft at Shannon.

Speaking after its maiden Irish flight demonstration that thrilled onlookers at Shannon Airport yesterday, Malcolm Ducker said that Shannon’s operating environment, its reputation as a global innovator and existing cluster of aviation industries and related experience makes it an ideal location for manufacturing of light aircraft.

“We have been talking to the people at Shannon about this project for some time and we get a real sense that it still has that ‘can do’, innovative approach to aviation. Your government has also come in with some incentives to support the sector, which is also an encouraging message, and on top of that you have a very attractive tax regime. All that together is certainly very attractive to us.

“At the moment we are moving to the next level with the Speedtwin and the development and production of the aircraft will require new skills and investment. We are confident we will get that and are excited about the worldwide potential market there is for the Speedtwin. We see Shannon as an ideal manufacturing base for the aircraft.”

With its twin-engines, tandem seating, short-field take-off abilities and seven hours endurance, the Speedtwin offers remarkable capabilities.

Shannon Airport Authority chairman Rose Hynes congratulated Mr Ducker and his team on bringing the project to this exciting stage.