Just a few weeks ago, Ryanair put the Irish government under pressure and threatened to permanently close the Shannon base. But they don't want to give this up completely, because from April 2021 at least one machine is to be reactivated at this location.

Irish airlines are particularly hard hit by the Republic of Ireland's tough entry and quarantine regulations. Competitor Aer Lingus withdrew long-haul activities from Shannon and will in future offer them from Manchester in the UK. In addition, due to the Brexit its own UK subsidiary founded.

Ryanair boss Eddie Wilson stated that 32 weekly flights to 14 destinations in Lithuania, Poland, Spain, Portugal and the UK will initially be offered from Shannon. Around 450.000 passengers are targeted. Further expansion is planned depending on the progress of the pandemic and the associated travel restrictions. The manager did not provide any information about a possible resumption of activities from Cork, Kerry and Knock. Only on Cork did he note that the base “may not be reactivated” in the summer of 2021.