Dublin Aerospace, a leading provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, has welcomed the publication of “A Pathfinder for Irish Aviation,” a landmark report from Irelandia that lays out a strategic vision for the revitalisation and sustainable growth of Ireland’s aviation sector.
Dublin Aerospace strongly supports the report’s findings, particularly those concerning MRO development, the need for expanded and modernised hangar capacity and the crucial role of apprenticeships in building Ireland’s future aviation workforce.
Commenting on the report and its findings, William Flaherty, CEO of Dublin Aerospace, said: “We applaud the authors, Joe Gill and Eamonn Brennan, for presenting a well distilled, forward-thinking strategy for Irish aviation. We particularly welcome the recommendations to prioritise MRO expansion and investment in aviation infrastructure, alongside proposals to scale up apprenticeship pathways for urgently needed aircraft engineers and technicians. These measures are vital to ensuring Ireland remains a global leader in aviation services.
If the Government and key stakeholders act on these recommendations, Ireland will not only retain but grow its position as an international aviation hub. Dublin Aerospace is focused on growing our people, capabilities, and facilities to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.”
Key Recommendations Backed by Dublin Aerospace
Apprenticeship & Engineering Talent Pipelines
Expanding and modernising aviation apprenticeships is critical to addressing the chronic shortage of licensed engineers and technicians. The current training model is rigid, outdated, and is not industry-led. It needs to be overhauled to improve outcomes, reduce failure rates, and align classroom modules with our seasonal quiet periods. Greater flexibility and sectoral input are essential to future-proof Ireland’s aviation talent pipeline.
MRO Capacity and Hangar Infrastructure
Dublin Aerospace strongly supports the report’s call for accelerated investment in modern hangar infrastructure to attract international MRO work and drive long-term industry growth. Current commercial rates, based on space usage rather than workforce size, disproportionately penalise aircraft hangars, creating a major cost barrier that undermines Ireland’s MRO competitiveness. A more balanced, sector-specific Commercial Rates model is urgently needed to support growth and skilled job creation. With over €1.8 billion unspent in the National Training Fund, here is a clear case for better deployment of taxpayer funds.
State-Backed Support
Dublin Aerospace endorses the report’s recommendation for targeted state-backed support, including ISIF funding and Enterprise Ireland initiatives, to help aviation SMEs and training providers scale up their operations.
