OCC Construction secures Shannon Airport terminal upgrade contract

The Shannon Airport Group has commenced construction of a €15m terminal building upgrade, appointing Galway-based contractor OCC Construction to deliver the project as part of a wider €40m capital investment programme across the airport's infrastructure and facilities throughout 2026.

Ireland's Travel Trade Network reported that the scheme will replace the 1970s section of Shannon Airport's main terminal building with a modern curved architectural façade designed to improve energy performance. The upgrade will facilitate transition to electric heat pump technology and new HVAC systems, enabling movement away from fossil fuel infrastructure and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Ray O'Driscoll, interim chief executive of The Shannon Airport Group, said the €15m arrivals area upgrade marks a significant step forward in the organisation's commitment to lowering emissions, improving energy performance and enhancing customer experience. He noted the project will enable major carbon reductions whilst modernising one of the most important parts of the terminal.

The construction programme includes complete refurbishment of immigration and baggage halls, delivering brighter contemporary spaces with upgraded toilets, improved lighting and flooring, clearer signage and new layouts. The works are designed to reduce queues and streamline passenger movement, including a dedicated new entrance for European passengers.

The project will remove the 1950s link corridor, saving approximately 62 tonnes of CO₂ annually by eliminating heating and cooling requirements for the old structure. New accommodation for Fixed Based Operators will be constructed within the arrivals area of the terminal building as part of this reconfiguration.

Construction commenced this month with completion scheduled for May 2027. No significant operational disruption is anticipated during the works, with OCC Construction managing phased delivery to maintain terminal operations throughout the construction period.

Access complete project specifications and sustainability targets for the terminal upgrade.