The story of the Airport
Ireland West Airport is one of the West of Ireland’s most important economic and social assets. Serving over 900,000 passengers annually, with flights to more than 20 International destinations, the airport provides vital connectivity between the West and Northwest of Ireland and key UK and European destinations. Its continued growth in routes, passenger numbers, and digital innovation reflects its crucial role in supporting tourism, business, and community life.
The airport serves as a key international gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland’s world-famous coastal touring route. Located in the heart of the West, Ireland West Airport is the perfect gateway to Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Donegal, Roscommon, and Leitrim. Discover the cultural energy of Galway City, County Galway, which is home to the stunning landscapes of Connemara, the Aran Islands, and the dramatic scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way. The coastal charm of Sligo, the birthplace of W.B yeats and the stunning landscapes of Mayo and Donegal. Explore Roscommon, with its rich heritage, tranquil lakes, and medieval castles, or unwind in Leitrim, famous for its peaceful countryside, waterways, and outdoor adventures. Whether visiting for business or leisure, Ireland West Airport offers the most convenient and connected route to experience the authentic beauty of Ireland’s West and Northwest. This accessibility strengthens tourism across the entire western seaboard, supporting local hospitality, attractions, and businesses that depend on international visitors.
More than a travel hub, Ireland West Airport continues to embody the spirit of the West – resilient, welcoming, and forward-looking – proudly connecting one of Ireland’s most scenic and culturally rich regions with the rest of the world.
History
The story of Ireland West Airport is one of faith, determination, and community spirit. In the early 1980s, Monsignor James Horan, parish priest of Knock, set out to achieve what many thought impossible: build an airport in rural County Mayo that would connect the West of Ireland to the world. Against all odds, and with the incredible support of local people, his vision became reality when the airport opened in 1986. What began as a dream of accessibility has since become one of the most inspiring success stories in Irish regional development.
On a Wing and a Prayer
We’re building an airport”, Monsignor James Horan told Jim Fahy of RTE News in 1981. “And I hope the Department of Transport doesn’t hear about it. Now don’t tell them … We’ve no money, but we’re hoping to get it next week, or the week after.”
The extraordinary true story of a ‘simple, country priest in a hurry’ with a dream to build an airport on a ‘foggy, boggy hill’ in County Mayo. “A Wing and a Prayer” tells the gripping story of how a small community, led by the determined priest Monsignor James Horan, rallied to build what would become Ireland West Airport- on a “foggy, boggy hill” and with seemingly impossible odds. Through personal testimony, archival footage, and moments of Irish perseverance, the documentary captures not just the construction of an airport but also a testament to hope, community spirit, and the power of ambition in the face of uncertainty.
Looking to the future
In May 2026, the airport will celebrate its 40th anniversary since its official opening. The forecast predicts that the airport will reach 1 million annual passengers by 2027-2028, marking a remarkable milestone. As we look ahead, while the economic situation presents many challenges both at home and in our key markets, the airport remains confident thanks to its strong business relationships with its airline customers. The positive regional support from the thousands of passengers that use the facility, the recent investment by the local authorities, and continued support from the Government will mark further significant milestones in the airport’s growth and development.
Airport Shareholders
In 2017, seven Local Authority Partners became shareholders in the airport. The support of local authorities ensures the airport can continue to grow and deliver greater economic benefits for the West and North West of Ireland. The airport shareholders are as follows:
- Horan Airport Trust
- Donegal County Council
- Galway City Council
- Galway County Council
- Leitrim County Council
- Mayo County Council
- Roscommon County Council
- Sligo County Council
Horan Airport Trust Members
- Kevin Kelly – Chairman, CE Mayo County Council
- Fr. Richard Gibbons – Parish Priest, Knock Shrine
- Most Reverend Francis Duffy – Archbishop of Tuam, Trustee
- Arthur French – Chairperson of Connaught Airport Development Company
- Archbishop Emeritus, Michael Neary – Trustee
- David McConn – Trustee
Connaught Airport Development Company – Board of Directors
- Arthur French – Chairperson
- Brian O’Dwyer (USA) – International Chairperson
- Shane Tiernan – Director
- Archbishop Francis Duffy – Director
- Fr. Richard Gibbons – Director
- Kevin Kelly – Director
- Joseph Gilmore – Managing Director
- Timothy McDermott (UK) – Director
- Patrick Gallagher – Director
- Sean Mulryan – Director
- Emer Gilvarry – Director
- Andrew Gallagher – Director
- Bryana Hindle-Jennings – Company Secretary
