Supporting our local community
At Ireland West Airport, we believe the people and communities of the West and North West of Ireland drive our success. Supporting local and national charities is a core part of who we are. Helping make a positive impact far beyond the airport. Each year, our staff and passengers come together to raise vital funds for up to 6 local and national charities through fundraising initiatives and awareness campaigns. From health and wellbeing organisations to children’s charities and local support groups, we’re proud to play our part in strengthening the region we call home.
We proudly belong to this region and actively support local and regional communities through a range of initiatives.
Charities of the year
By supporting local causes, Ireland West Airport not only gives back but also helps foster unity, compassion, and resilience within our community. It’s our way of saying thank you to the people who make this region — and our airport — so special.
The Ireland West Airport Charity of the Year programme supports several charities each year through our fundraising events. This year, the six charities nominated by staff are Connacht Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus (SBHI), Dillon Quirke Foundation, National Breast Cancer Research Institute, Mayo Roscommon Hospice, Western Alzheimer’s and Order of Malta. If your charity wishes to be nominated for 2026, email [email protected].
Annual Runway Run
The highlight of our annual charity fundraising calendar is the Charity 5K Runway Family Fun Run. Portwest kindly sponsors the event each year. Every September, we host it on the runway at Ireland West Airport, where participants walk or run the famous 2,500-metre runway. It’s a special occasion for everyone and an experience they will remember.
It’s a unique 5km event that welcomes over 1,200 participants of all ages and abilities each year. In 2025, it raised over €20,000 for our charity partners.
Bumper Summer Draw
Each summer, Ireland West Airport and our charity partners come together for a Bumper Summer Charity Draw. There’s a chance to win some fantastic prizes! Prizes every year include flights to one of the 20+ destinations available from Ireland West Airport. We also include concert tickets, hotel breaks, beautiful gift hampers, gift vouchers, and many more fantastic prizes.
Online Bingo
Every year, Ireland West Airport hosts a very special online bingo night. You can join us from the comfort of your own home for 10 games with a chance to win great cash prizes. A special raffle takes place on the night, also with a chance to win flights from the airport, hampers, gift vouchers, hotel stays and much more. All proceeds on the night go to our six charity partners.
Transition Year Work Experience
We are delighted to offer one week of work experience to Transition Year students as they complete their TY programme. Students have the opportunity to experience airport operations across various departments. For further details, contact HR at [email protected].