New hangar facilities on cards for Shannon

The construction of new hangar facilities at Shannon could begin as early as 2013 as part of determined efforts to attract aviation business to the soon-to-be independent airport.

Shannon-based Fine Gael senator Tony Mulcahy has been told by the Department of Finance of a seven-year accelerated capital allowance scheme which will promote the construction of certain aviation-specific facilities in Shannon.

Mr Mulcahy said “significant movement is likely in the development of new hangar facilities” at the airport once its scheduled separation from Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) takes place on Dec 31.

The new entity, which will include the airport and surrounding landbank, will be tasked with developing an international aviation centre of excellence.

Mr Mulcahy said: “It is abundantly clear from a report prepared by the management of Shannon Airport and assessed by KPMG, that the viability of Shannon Airport and surrounding businesses cannot be justified through passenger growth alone.

“By introducing a capital allowance scheme, the Government is underlining its commitment to marketing Shannon as a one-stop-shop for all airline needs, including use of hangars to house aircraft and pilot-training, but primarily for the aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul sector.”