Shannon flies into new era after gaining independence

Shannon Airport yesterday celebrated the beginning of a new era as it officially became an independent entity.

Separation officially took place at 11.59pm on Dec 31 from Dublin Airport Authority, with the first passengers to transit through the newly autonomous airport arriving on board the Aer Lingus EI-110 flight from New York JFK at 5.08am yesterday.

The airport begins operations on a solid footing with a debt-free balance sheet after its €110m debt was left with DAA.