Shannon Airport welcomes eight new recruits to the Airport Search Unit ahead of a busy summer schedule

Shannon Airport Search Unit – Stephen Murphy, Keith Byrne, Andrew Martin, Cliona O’Rourke, Richard Chute, Shannon Airport screening supervisor and instructor, Jean Moloney, Deputy Chief Security Officer of Shannon Airport, Pat O’Brien, Chief Officer of Shannon Airport Police, Fire Service and Security, Julia Shortt, Shannon Airport screening supervisor and instructor, Steven Law, Jay Moore, Thomas Culbert and Isabel O’Halloran Dooley.

Shannon Airport Search Unit officers recently completed a comprehensive four week training programme

Shannon Airport has welcomed eight new members to its Shannon Airport Search Unit (ASU) team as it prepares for a busy summer season.

The new ASU officers recently completed a comprehensive four week training programme covering the operation of Shannon Airport’s three dimensional screening system, cabin baggage search techniques, manual handling, sunflower hidden disability awareness and more. The programme was delivered in house, combining theory and hands on, practical experience, with certification completed by the Irish Aviation Authority.

Hailing from County Clare and neighbouring counties Limerick, Tipperary and Cork, the recruits bring with them a wide range of customer service experience from retail and hospitality, as well as from other roles within the airport, including ground handling.

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The recruits received their official certificates at an event welcoming them to the Shannon Airport team. Speaking at the event, Pat O’Brien, Chief Officer of Shannon Airport Police, Fire Service and Security, said: “Our ASU officers play a vital role at Shannon, both from a security and a customer experience perspective. They are often the first point of contact for passengers and are a key part of how well our airport operates. I want to congratulate today’s newly certified officers and thank them, along with Jean Moloney, Deputy Chief Security Officer, and our instructors Richard Chute and Julia Shortt, for the commitment and professionalism shown throughout the training programme.”

Screening Supervisor and instructor Richard Chute added: “It’s an intense four weeks, but this group did exceptionally well. The role really suits people from all walks of life who enjoy working with others and helping passengers feel at ease. The new officers have already worked really well together, and we’re looking forward to seeing them out on the floor now as part of the wider ASU team.”

The appointment of the new officers comes as passenger demand continues to grow at Shannon Airport. An estimated 56,000 people travelled through the airport during the May bank holiday period, and with 40 routes available this year, the ASU team is preparing to support passengers throughout the busy summer season ahead.