Negotiations have commenced on a new Air Services Agreement between Ireland and Brazil, marking an important step towards establishing direct connectivity between the two countries.
Clare Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe, who chairs the Parliamentary Party Shannon Airport Group, has said the negotiations present a key opportunity for Shannon Airport to secure a direct route to Brazil.
Deputy Crowe, who is also a member of the Ireland–Brazil Parliamentary Friendship Group, said the development could represent an important moment for strengthening links between Ireland and Brazil while also supporting regional connectivity.
Deputy Crowe said: “Following the removal of the Dublin passenger cap, I have been highlighting the need for an increase in routes at Shannon in order to ensure a fair regional balance. Shannon is very well positioned to play a central role in developing new long-haul connectivity and I hope we can capitalise on this opportunity for the benefit of both Shannon and the country’s tourism industry.
“Shannon has the runway capacity to accommodate long-haul services and has long established itself as a successful transatlantic hub. For these reasons, I believe it represents a common-sense option for any future Ireland–Brazil route.
“My colleagues and I in the Oireachtas Shannon Airport Group have consistently highlighted the importance of achieving greater regional balance in aviation policy. Without this balance, we risk undermining economic development outside Dublin.”
Ireland currently has no direct flights to South America, meaning passengers travelling to Brazil must connect through European or Middle Eastern hubs.
A direct service would provide improved connectivity not only to Brazil but also to destinations across South America through major aviation hubs such as São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport.
Deputy Crowe said that establishing a direct route between Shannon and Brazil would strengthen tourism, trade and cultural ties between the two countries while also supporting balanced regional development.
Ireland is also home to a significant Brazilian community, and a direct route could support tourism, student travel and business links while strengthening connectivity between Europe and Brazil.