Call for Galway Airport to reopen as petition surpasses 3,000 signatures
A petition calling for the reopening of Galway Airport in Carnmore has surpassed 3,000 signatures.
As of January 7, a total of 3,059 people have now signed the petition urging Galway City and County Councils to reconsider the future of the former airport site.
The campaign is organised by Larry Walsh, who said there are “deeply passionate” feelings within the community about restoring the site as a functioning airport — including among younger generations, such as his 18-year-old son.
While the petition dates back eight months, dozens of signatures were added over the past week, pushing it beyond the 3,000 mark over the weekend.
The petition states: “Instead of seeing it sold off, many of us envision it bustling with activity once again, energising our local economy, improving transport links and bringing growth opportunities.”
Mr Walsh said the value of Galway Airport as a regional hub lies in its potential for economic growth, tourism, and improved transport connectivity.
“Many Galwegians feel a sense of loss without an active airport, recalling the bustling activity, employment and travel convenience it once offered,” he said. “It was a facility integral to the community, and its absence is widely felt.
“We can present this petition to the Galway City and County Council, demonstrating the collective desire of Galway's residents to see the airport reopen. Let’s stand together for a cause that can benefit our community, economy and future generations.”
However, the public seem divided, with some questioning the need for a Galway airport given the proximity of Shannon and Ireland West Airport Knock.
The future of the airport site was also the subject of discussion at Galway City and County Council meetings in November, when councillors voted to re-sign an €11,000 lease with the Galway Flying Club. The lease was ultimately approved on the basis of “temporary convenience”.
During the debate, Councillor Eileen Mannion reminded members: “We bought a site, not an airport,” urging colleagues to focus on progressive redevelopment rather than retaining its aviation use.
While Galway County Council’s Director of Services Liam Hanrahan told councillors: “We are a county council, not an aviation authority. The council is not in any position to run or open the airport.”
The last commercial flight departed Galway Airport in 2011. The site is now jointly owned by Galway City and County Councils.
Various alternative uses for the site have been proposed over the years, including a private airport or an event space, but its future remain uncertain.