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Shannon Airport SNN

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SNN Airport Insights & Guide

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Getting to Know SNN Airport

Embark on your Irish journey through Shannon Airport, your gateway to Ireland's enchanting west coast. Notably, SNN is renowned for pioneering the world's first Duty-Free shop, enhancing your travel experience. This concise guide covers everything from flight status, terminal information, to parking and dining options, ensuring a seamless transition from doorstep to departure. Dive into a more detailed exploration of airports worldwide with our Comprehensive Airport Guide.

iFly Tip: Simplify your travel planning with links to various air travel topics on our reference page.

SNN Airport has one main terminal with two levels, Arrivals and Departures. The terminal has 18 gates in total, with 13 gates on the ground floor and 5 gates on the first floor. The terminal is used by major airlines such as Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and Delta Airlines.

Upon arrival, passengers can easily navigate the terminal by following the signs and directions provided throughout the airport. The Arrivals level is located on the ground floor and is where passengers can find baggage claim, customs, and ground transportation options. The Departures level is located on the first floor and is where passengers can check-in for their flights, go through security, and access the gates.

Passengers who need assistance navigating the terminal can find information desks located throughout the airport. These desks are staffed with knowledgeable personnel who can answer questions and provide directions.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has one terminal building, making it easy for passengers to navigate. The terminal is divided into two levels. The ground level is where arrivals and baggage claim are located, while the first floor is where departures and check-in counters can be found. The airport offers a range of facilities including shops, restaurants, and lounges, all located within the terminal building.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Shannon Airport (SNN) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SNN-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Shannon Airport is quite straightforward with just one terminal, which makes navigation a breeze. However, it's always good to know that the check-in area is on the ground floor, while departures are on the first floor. Keep an eye on the signs, and you’ll be at your gate in no time." — Liam O., Limerick, Ireland, August 2023

"If you’re traveling with Aer Lingus, their check-in counters are located towards the left as you enter the terminal. For other airlines, head straight and follow the signs. It’s a small airport, so you won’t get lost." — Fiona M., Ennis, Ireland, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The best way to get to Shannon Airport from Limerick is by taking the Bus Éireann Route 343. It’s reliable and runs frequently throughout the day. It’s also a lot cheaper than taking a taxi." — Sean K., Limerick, Ireland, September 2023

"If you’re driving, the airport is just off the N19, which connects to the M18. It’s a straightforward drive, but do allow extra time during peak hours to avoid any traffic delays." — Aisling R., Shannon, Ireland, October 2023

Parking

"For long-term parking, I always use the Park4Less option. It’s a bit further from the terminal, but the shuttle service is quick and efficient. Plus, it’s cheaper than the regular long-term parking." — Patrick D., Sixmilebridge, Ireland, November 2023

"If you’re just picking someone up, use the short-term parking. It’s free for the first 15 minutes, which is usually enough time to meet arrivals and get back to your car." — Mary C., Newmarket-on-Fergus, Ireland, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"For a quick bite, I recommend Zest Food Market. They have a great selection of sandwiches and salads, perfect for grabbing something healthy before your flight." — Eoin H., Shannon, Ireland, January 2024

"If you have some time to kill, check out the Duty-Free shopping area. They have a good range of Irish products, which make for great last-minute gifts." — Siobhan P., Bunratty, Ireland, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Shannon Airport is known for its efficient security process, but it’s always a good idea to arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during peak travel seasons." — Declan F., Limerick, Ireland, March 2024

"If you want to avoid the crowds, try to book flights that depart mid-week. Mondays and Fridays tend to be the busiest days." — Niamh B., Ennis, Ireland, April 2024

iFly Tip: Find out how to navigate airport procedures comfortably with our overweight passenger tips.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

The airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are picking up passengers, there is a designated area for curbside parking outside the terminal building. However, please note that parking is only allowed for a maximum of 20 minutes and vehicles must not be left unattended. If you need more time, it is recommended to use the short-term parking lot located near the terminal.

If you are dropping off passengers, there is a designated area outside the terminal building where you can drop off passengers and their luggage. Again, please note that vehicles must not be left unattended in this area and it is for drop-off only.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, there is a cell-phone waiting area located near the airport. This area is free to use and allows you to wait in your vehicle until your arriving passenger has collected their luggage and is ready to be picked up. Please note that vehicles must not be left unattended in this area and it is for waiting only.

Parking Facilities & Options

Shannon Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located near the terminal, including short-term and long-term options. The short-term parking lot is located directly in front of the terminal, making it a convenient option for those dropping off or picking up passengers. The long-term parking lot is located a short distance from the terminal, but a complimentary shuttle service is available to transport passengers to and from the terminal.

For those waiting to pick up passengers, there is a cell phone waiting area located just a few minutes away from the terminal. This area allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers are ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages, with designated spaces located near the terminal for easy access.

Off-airport parking is also available for those looking for a more economical option. These parking facilities are located a short distance from the airport and offer shuttle services to and from the terminal. They can be a great option for those traveling on a budget or for extended periods of time.

Transportation Options

SNN offers a variety of transportation options for travelers to choose from:

  • Car Rentals: Several car rental companies are located in the arrivals hall of Shannon Airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. These providers offer a range of vehicles to suit all needs and budgets. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: A taxi rank is located outside the arrivals hall. Fares are metered and vary depending on your destination. Taxis can also drop off passengers at the departures area of the airport. The average fare to Limerick city center is approximately €45, and the journey takes about 20 minutes.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available at Shannon Airport. Pickup areas for these services are located outside the arrivals hall. Be sure to check for any restrictions regarding luggage and passenger capacity.
  • Airport Shuttles: Several airport shuttle providers offer door-to-door transportation to your destination. Pickup areas are located outside the arrivals hall. Fares vary depending on your destination, and it is recommended to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
  • Public Transportation: Bus Eireann operates a regular bus service from the airport to various destinations throughout Ireland. The bus stop is located outside the arrivals hall. Fares are reasonable and vary depending on your destination. For example, a single ticket to Limerick costs around €8, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

iFly Tip: Explore the steps pilots take to ensure safe flight operations in our cockpit safety guide.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be stressful, especially when you need to find suitable accommodation close to the airport. Whether you're in town for a quick layover, a business trip, or a leisurely vacation, we've compiled a list of the best hotels to ensure a convenient and comfortable stay. From the unbeatable location of the Park Inn by Radisson to the historic charm of the Carrygerry Country House, each hotel offers unique benefits to cater to different preferences. If you're looking for a blend of convenience and tranquility, the Shannon Castle Holiday Cottages provide serene garden settings just a short drive from the airport. For a more urban experience, the Treacys Oakwood Hotel is nestled right in the vibrant center of town. Read on to discover more about these hotels and find the one that best suits your needs. You'll find options ranging from historic country houses to modern inns, all within close proximity to the airport. Ready to book now? View all SNN Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Shannon Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy. For a quick bite to eat, we recommend The Red Bean Roastery located in the Departures Lounge. They offer a selection of delicious sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, The Sheridan Bar & Restaurant is a great option. They serve traditional Irish cuisine and have a full bar. You can find them in the Departures Lounge near the Duty-Free area.

When it comes to shopping, Shannon Airport has a variety of stores to choose from. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, The Irish Design House is a great option. They offer a selection of traditional Irish products such as clothing, jewelry, and pottery. For duty-free shopping, we recommend The Loop. They offer a wide range of products including cosmetics, fragrances, and liquor. You can find both of these stores in the Departures Lounge.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at SNN can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Shannon Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the arrivals area of the terminal building for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Shannon Airport features designated children's play areas located throughout the airport.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available in both the arrivals and departures areas of the terminal building, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the departures area of the terminal building. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
  • Airport Lounges: Shannon Airport features the Ború Lounge, located after security in the departures area. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and a comfortable seating area to relax before your flight. Additionally, the lounge provides a quiet space with workstations and a selection of newspapers and magazines.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight. Fortunately, SNN offers several ways to check your flight status.

One of the most common ways to check flight status is by using in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another convenient way to stay informed about your flight status is through the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at SNN Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Shannon Airport (SNN) is located in Shannon, County Clare, Ireland.
  • Terminal: The airport has one terminal that serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Ryanair, Aer Lingus, and United Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the SNN Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Shannon Airport handles approximately 8,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 70 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from SNN are London, New York, Boston, Manchester, and Chicago.
  • Hub Status: Shannon Airport is a hub for Ryanair and Aer Lingus, offering connecting flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond.

Airport History

SNN, located in County Clare, Ireland, has a rich history dating back to the early days of aviation.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1936 - SNN Airport is officially opened as the first transatlantic airport in Europe.
  • 1942 - During World War II, the airport becomes an important stopover for Allied aircraft.
  • 1958 - The first commercial jetliner, a BOAC Boeing 707, lands at Shannon Airport.
  • 1982 - Shannon Airport becomes the first airport in the world to offer duty-free shopping.
  • 2001 - The first scheduled transatlantic flight from SNN to Boston takes off.
  • 2014 - SNN Airport celebrates its 75th anniversary.

Today, the airport continues to be an important hub for transatlantic travel and serves millions of passengers each year.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Shannon Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Shannon Airport Q&A

The airport has one main terminal with two levels: Arrivals on the ground floor and Departures on the first floor.
Major airlines operating at the airport include Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and Delta Airlines.
Information desks are located throughout the airport and are staffed with knowledgeable personnel to assist passengers.
There are designated areas for curbside parking and drop-off outside the terminal. Vehicles must not be left unattended, and parking is limited to 20 minutes.
The airport offers short-term and long-term parking options, as well as a cell phone waiting area and off-airport parking with shuttle services.
Transportation options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation via Bus Eireann.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, including the Park Inn by Radisson, Carrygerry Country House, Shannon Castle Holiday Cottages, and Treacys Oakwood Hotel.
The airport offers a variety of dining options like The Red Bean Roastery and The Sheridan Bar & Restaurant, as well as shopping options like The Irish Design House and The Loop duty-free store.
Services include free Wi-Fi, lost and found, children's play areas, special-needs services, ATMs, a first aid station, and the Ború Lounge.
Flight status can be checked via in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, and the flight departures page on ifly.com.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport