Shannon’s largest employer, Ei Electronics, has announced plans to provide significant support for the extension and renovation of the Shannon Aviation Museum, which has been in existence since 2007.
It comes in the form of co-funding for a recent grant for the Museum from the Department of Rural and Community Development 2018 Towns and Villages Renewal Scheme, which is delivered through the Clare County Council.
The Centre provides accredited education and training aviation courses for adults in partnership with Limerick Institute of Technology and Shannon Aviation Cluster Companies, but also provides accessibility to schools and the general public offering a range of learning activities and experiences for people of all ages with a passion for aviation.
Speaking at the announcement, Ei Electronics CEO Mick Guinee acknowledged the contribution the Centre has made to the region to date. “We recognise the fantastic work being done by the dedicated team here, a tribute to the vision and hard work of its founders. We hope that our support will help realise the Centre’s potential, in taking it to a new level, as a museum, educational facility and aerospace centre of excellence in Shannon – the home of Irish aviation.”
The expansion plans will see the current facility being transformed through the extension and upgrading of the existing facility, improved visitor entrance and signage, a café, small gift shop and kids play area. Work is due to commence this summer. The renovation and expansion will further enhance the visitor experience and its contribution to the region at large, drawing in visitors from all over Ireland and further afield. The aim and future vision is to give Shannon a clear visual identity to match its rich aeronautical heritage.
Jane Magill, Centre CEO said “We are really delighted to receive this generous funding from Ei Electronics, it has made a huge difference to our fundraising efforts and the project. It is a great endorsement of this facility and also of what we are working to deliver for Shannon town and the wider region into the future.” Coinciding with the announcement, members of the Ei Electronics Team got up close to Buccaneer XX897, a 1950’s British aircraft carrier jet and to experience the Boeing 737 Flight Simulator, which is used regularly for flight simulator experience gifts, commercial pilot practice sessions and local aircraft maintenance companies to deliver simulated engine run training.
