Mayo airport sets two new records during August

A record 102,000 passengers passed through Ireland West Airport during the month of August, making it the busiest month in the airport's 38-year history.

The passenger numbers represented a 10% increase on the same period in 2022 and were 7% higher than in August 2019.

The busiest day of the month was Tuesday, August 29, when 4,539 passengers travelled through the airport.

This also proved to be the busiest ever day in the airport's history.

Over 78,000 passengers travelled between Ireland and the UK during the month of August an 11% increase on August 2022 with the London Market experiencing record passenger numbers on services to and from Luton and Stansted with Ryanair and London Heathrow with Aer Lingus.

In addition, Ryanair had their busiest ever month on their services to both Edinburgh and Liverpool.

The airport's services to mainland and continental Europe also recorded record passenger numbers with a 5% increase compared to August 2022.

Faro in Portugal and Barcelona (Girona) in Spain were the two most popular sun destinations for holidaymakers, whilst Ryanair’s twice weekly service to Cologne in Germany enjoyed its busiest ever month in August, providing a boost for tourist visits to the West and Northwest regions.

Commenting on a record month, Joe Gilmore, managing director, Ireland West Airport, said "It’s a fantastic milestone for the airport to reach over 100,000 passengers in a single month, for only the second time in the airport’s history.

"Despite the record numbers travelling last month, our staffs focus continued to be on ensuring the journey through the airport was efficient and a pleasant one for all our passengers.

"The months of September and October continue to look strong and with great value to be had on flights to the UK and Spain, Portugal, Italy and Germany it’s always a popular time for those looking to get some autumn sunshine or enjoy a short city break."

* Pictured at Ireland West Airport to mark the occasion of record breaking passenger numbers at Ireland West Airport for the month of August were, from left to right, Joe Gilmore, managing director, Ireland West Airport, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Minister of State Dara Calleary, and Councillor John Caulfield.