Sustainable Transport
With a special feature on Future of Aviation
“Demand remains consistent with the parallel growth of vehicles and chargers.”
Matthew Sealy, Chairperson, Irish EV Asssociation Page 04
“The CSRD mandates transparency in sustainability reporting within financial reports.”
Simon McKeever, CEO, Irish Exporters Association Page 07 www.businessnews.ie
Backing transport firms in sustainable transport approach
-Multiple authors, Jacobs
Framing the requirement by embedding sustainability in Ireland’s
transport systems
Learn about the framework that prioritises a systematic approach to reducing the impact of infrastructure projects on the environment.
Egis, a global architecture consulting, construction engineering and operating firm, is seeking to reach net zero by 2050 and wants all its projects to be 100% ‘eco-designed’ by 2030.
According to Andrew Doyle, Country Director of Transportation, ‘ecodesigned’ refers to the application of a proprietary framework and systematic approach to mitigating the adverse impacts of infrastructure on the environment and strengthening its resilience to climate risks.
Environmental considerations for infrastructure design
Egis’ proprietary Act4EcoDesign framework requires a series of primary environmental considerations to be applied during infrastructure design, development and operation. “By systemising an eco-design approach to engineering, in construction supervision and operation, we can realise the significant role engineers and operators play in mitigating the impacts of climate change and adaptation to climate risks,” Doyle explains.
Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals and EU Environmental Objectives Taxonomy, seven environmental pillars underpin the framework – carbon, adaptation to climate change, biodiversity, circular economy and resources, energy and water, pollution, soil sealing and land conversion. “A project is considered eco-designed if it reaches a minimum level of achievement on at least four of the environmental pillars,” Doyle says.
Sustainability on track
The company is actively involved in sustainable public transport design, in projects across Ireland’s intercity, light rail and bus services, plus active travel networks. The company recently
completed preliminary designs for the extension of Dublin’s Luas system to Finglas, now submitted to An Bord Pleanála, and, as Doyle explains, this project is a “great example of the application of our eco-design approach.”
The 3.9km route will transport 440,000 commuters daily and will connect Broombridge to the M50 in 13 minutes with four new stops along the way. The design for the extension includes a 350-space park-and-ride facility, featuring PV Panels to support EV charging, new walking and cycling ways and connection to Dart+, rail, bus and active travel networks.
Sustainable design and biodiversity
Several steps are also being taken to reduce carbon emissions including the use of a specific grass track type, low-carbon concrete and sustainable drainage systems. Around 4,000 cubic metres of site-won material will be reused while the project should also deliver a net biodiversity gain with new trees being planted and new habitats created.
“The Luas Finglas designs reflect Egis and Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s shared commitment to sustainability. The designs emphasise environmental, social and biodiversity requirements to ensure the planned new route delivers for the communities it serves, enabling social and economic growth while protecting native ecosystems, the area’s cultural heritage and the environment,” Doyle says.
Why
the N/M20 Cork to Limerick project is a sustainable transport solution
The N/M20 Cork to Limerick project is identified as a priority investment in the Government’s National Development Plan 2021–2030.
The Department of Transport, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Limerick City and County Council are progressing the development of the N/ M20 Cork to Limerick project.
Providing active travel pathways
As the largest single active travel project to be undertaken in Ireland, the project will provide up to 100km of safe, shared active travel pathways connecting communities from Blarney to Patrickswell. It encourages walking and cycling for work, school and leisure. It links communities, promotes healthier lifestyles and reduces transport emissions.
Transport hubs along the route will feature park-and-ride facilities for public transport, park-and-share and electric vehicle (EV) charging, connecting to local communities with the new active travel network.
for developing the dual carriageway motorway or reallocating existing road space for new active travel infrastructure.
Sustainable transport management measures
To encourage sustainable transport choices, support Ireland’s climate action plan and support the maintenance and renewal of the new transport infrastructure, the project team recommends implementing demand management measures, including distance-based, barrierfree tolling.
Bypasses along the route
Bypasses along the route will remove strategic traffic and heavy goods vehicles from communities. This will significantly improve air quality, reduce noise levels and support public realm improvements, sustainable transport and vibrant communities.
Safer, faster M20 motorway
Freight hub with extensive transport facilities
A freight hub in Mallow will provide facilities for parking, welfare and EV charging for heavy goods vehicles in accordance with European and National transport policies. The project will facilitate efficient public transport options, including the opportunity for quicker intercity express bus services and improved efficiency on existing bus services in the communities between Cork and Limerick. The project will utilise over 60% of existing N20 road corridor
The M20 motorway (120kph), will be five times safer than the current N20 single carriageway. It will reduce intercity journey times by 30 minutes on average. The provision of 80km of divided dual carriageway could prevent 200 fatal or serious injury collisions over the 30-year appraisal period. The addition of 100km of segregated walkways and cycleways will significantly improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging healthy active travel.
Peter Walsh CEO, Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Andrew Doyle Country Director for Transportation, Egis in Ireland
Why Dublin’s reliable light rail service is the sustainable line to take
Early in the 20th century, Dublin was envied around the world for its large and impressive tram network, which ran in the city between 1872 and 1949.
Ireland’s safe, sustainable light rail
What goes around comes around. Luas — the light rail system that replaced it in 2004 — has an even more enviable reputation as a safe and reliable way to travel around the capital. Crucially, because it’s powered by 100% certified renewable energy, it’s sustainable too. Over the past 20 years, half a billion passenger trips have been made on Luas (the Irish word for ‘speed’) and all with zero emissions.
Dublin’s Luas light rail network is safe, reliable and sustainable. It’s also supporting the city’s economy by improving access to jobs, education and key services.
Luas is operated and maintained by public transport company, Transdev. “Trams are the backdrop of this city,” explains Eoghan Sweeney, Deputy Managing Director. “Part of Luas’ appeal is accessibility because approximately one-quarter of Dublin’s population live within one kilometre of a Luas stop,” he says. “With over two decades of trusted partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and National Transport Authority (NTA), we have delivered half a billion zeroemissions public transport journeys through the Luas — supporting a sustainable Ireland for all.”
Inclusive operations and community work
Because the service is fully integrated with the wider transport network, increasing numbers of passengers view it as a more viable alternative to car use (travel time is estimated to be 37% shorter than car travel).
and the people who travel on our trams — and educate young people about the service we provide,” says Sweeney.
Expanding network boosts productivity
It’s a service that keeps growing. Since 2009, Transdev has mobilised four extensions across the system, including the Cross City extension in 2017, which created a Luas network for the first time and enabled sustainable public transport by light rail from north, south, east and west Dublin. Expansion has also supported regeneration and development in areas of the city by improving access to jobs, education, shops, restaurants and other services. Then, in 2019, new 50-metre trams were introduced into the network. “These are one of the longest trams operating in the world and can carry nearly 400 people,” says Rooney.
With over two decades of trusted partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and National Transport Authority (NTA), we have delivered half a billion zero emissions public transport journeys. WRITTEN
Greenway
It’s also an inclusive form of transport, notes Dave Rooney, Operations Director. “The trams are fully accessible,” he explains. “It’s vital to ensure that travel is made as easy as possible for anyone with a disability.” To that end, staff will receive training at the Wayfinding Centre, to learn how people with access needs experience journeys on public transport. Transdev, with a diverse workforce of over 650 staff and a growing number of female employees, is also working with the communities it serves. This includes St Aidan’s School, Fettercairn, Ballyogan Community Centre and St Patrick’s Athletic FC Youth Programme, plus many schools across the system. “This is a way to strengthen links between ourselves
Integrating urban sustainability
Yet, it’s Luas’ sustainability focus that is a key selling point for passengers.
“It’s at the heart of what we do as an operator,” says Sweeney. “Our sustainability plan was first published in 2011 and is aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. It seeks to reduce waste, energy and emissions. Light rail can help reduce Dublin’s traffic congestion, lowering emissions from cars and other forms of transport. Because the system needs less space compared to road vehicles, it doesn’t disrupt the urban landscape as much as highways or large rail stations might.”
Ben Dwars, CEO, asserts that the company will continue to work in collaboration with its key stakeholders to deliver and continually improve services. “Luas exemplifies many of the principles of sustainable transport: low emissions, high efficiency, reduced congestion and urban integration,” he says. “Luas remains a strong model of sustainable urban transportation. We’re looking forward to and excited for the future where we will continue to care, share and dare.”
Sponsored by Transdev
Rethinking parking: from nuisance to a tool for sustainable mobility
Strategic parking management can support sustainable transport goals. Tailored, sustainable solutions will help Local Authorities meet their communities’ needs.
S“ustainability is at the heart of what we do,” says Alan Dunne, Managing Partner, Iregan Advisors, a transformation consultancy specialising in mobility and parking strategies. It collaborates with Local Authorities, suppliers and expert partners to enhance accessibility, reduce emissions and improve urban liveability. While often seen as a mundane necessity, Dunne says: “Parking can proactively support, or significantly hinder, sustainable transport and climate action objectives.”
Parking strategies that focus on equity Abundant, cheap parking has been shown to encourage car use, which can lead to increased congestion and emissions. In contrast, strategic management of parking — through pricing, kerbside allocation and enforcement — can discourage unnecessary car use while promoting sustainable options like walking, cycling and public transit. This is crucial for Ireland’s climate goals and reducing car dependency. “Parking strategies must also consider ‘captive’ users,” Dunne adds, “such as those with mobility challenges, ensuring equity while supporting Ireland’s broader goals of reducing car dependency.”
Iregan Advisors’ client base includes Local Authorities across Ireland, whom they support through evidence-based solutions that combine data analytics with global best practices and local insights. “We’ve worked with many of Ireland’s Local Authorities and supported initiatives like the Department of Transport’s Demand Management strategy,” Dunne notes. Their work extends from optimising parking supply and allocation to integrating active travel infrastructure that encourages low-carbon mobility.
Parking as a tool for sustainable mobility Electric vehicle (EV) charging is another critical component of Ireland’s sustainable mobility future. The consultancy is helping Local Authorities develop and implement EV charging strategies by leveraging parking data and collaborating with experts. “The goal is to seamlessly integrate EV charging into existing parking arrangements, supporting Ireland’s transition to cleaner energy while ensuring accessibility and ease of use,” he explains.
Dunne envisions a reshaped role for parking in Ireland’s transport landscape. “Parking will need to align with Ireland’s climate action goals and the National Sustainable Mobility Policy,” he concludes. “We see policy and technology together being central to managing kerbside access. Effective and intelligent parking management will play a key role in enabling broader sustainable change.”
Sponsored by Iregan Advisors Alan Dunne Managing Partner, Iregan Advisors
Multiple EV chargers, more locations and expanded coverage for Ireland
Our public charging network is steadily improving, especially in terms of the variety of options and locations, which has expanded significantly compared to before.
We are moving away from the single charger sites you had to stop at, to multiple charge points you might choose to stop at, as choice in where to stop is now an option. However, we do see inconsistent geographic coverage, and demand remains consistent with the parallel growth of vehicles and chargers.
Scaling up EV charging infrastructure
We track electric vehicle (EV) charger applications to guide the public on what is coming, with currently over 80 planning applications for fast charger sites being tracked on our page. These new or existing sites, like what has been installed to date, can be hindered by our grid capacity and the timelines it takes for these new or existing sites to obtain a new or upgraded grid connection. By the end of 2025, the charging network will triple what was in place before 2023, placing a larger demand on our grid’s capacity and infrastructure requirements.
Investment in EV recharging and the grid Thankfully, we are seeing investment and forethought in this regard through Phase 1 (granted) and Phase 2 (open to applications) EV Recharging Infrastructure Light Duty Vehicle (LDV) National Road Grant Scheme, the Shared Island Sports Scheme and the EU Just Transition Fund scheme. They provide approximately €100 million in the public EV charger rollout. This is alongside Budget 2025 outlining an additional €750 million in funding for electricity grid infrastructure development, which will play a part in the grid capacity and upgrades required for a much larger electrification effort.
What does this mean for EVs and the grid? There is a minimum of 30MW of charging required through Phases 1 and 2 of the EV Recharging Infrastructure LDV National Road Grant Scheme alone — far from being insignificant. An EV can be a large draw on the grid, but they also play a crucial part in balancing the grid by being large sinks and sources as required. They are just large batteries on wheels, adding an influential aspect to our national grid’s infrastructure.
Cycling infrastructure needed to shake safety concerns
While high levels of car use are more understandable in rural environments, it is a cause for concern in urban areas, like Dublin, where 53% of trips are still taken by car.
The most recent National Household Transport Survey, conducted in 2022 by the National Transport Authority, found that 69% of trips taken nationally are by car, with walking the next most popular mode of transport, at 19%. Trips taken by bus account for 4% of trips, cycling 2%, and trips taken by train or Luas amount to just 1%.
Driving over cycling dominance
Heavy reliance on driving leads to significant congestion in urban areas and increases carbon emissions. Despite a substantial rail network and the potential for active travel, these options are not fully utilised, often due to perceived safety issues, lack of reliability or access. This is perhaps most obviously apparent in the low uptake of cycling nationally. In recent years, there has been renewed interest in cycling, driven by environmental concerns, health benefits, and urban mobility. A recent survey of 1,000 Irish adults, conducted on behalf of Engineers Ireland, shows that a majority (64%) of the public surveyed never cycle, while statistics from the Central Statistics Office show that a majority of those who do are male and over 35 years old.
Perception of cycling as unsafe
The same Engineers Ireland survey found that 82% of rural respondents perceive cycling as unsafe or very unsafe, with only mild improvements of perception in urban areas, with 75% of those polled seeing it as somewhat or very unsafe.
This perception of cycling is one of the key challenges increasing its popularity as a mode of transport. Ireland’s low uptake of cycling, even in urban areas, contrasts poorly with many other European states, most particularly the Netherlands, where more than onequarter of trips (28%) are completed by cycling, according to the Netherlands Institute for Transport Policy Analysis.
Improved cycling infrastructure needed While investment in cycle infrastructure has increased in recent years, a greater emphasis on the development of structurally separated cycle lanes, speed limit reductions across urban areas, and more widespread access to public bike schemes can help to improve Ireland’s uptake of this highly sustainable and healthy mode of transport.
Damien Owens Director General, Engineers Ireland
Matthew Sealy Chairperson, Irish EV Association
Move with change: the business case for cutting your fleet’s carbon footprint
Transitioning to zero or low-emission vehicles, such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), can significantly lower running costs through tax savings and operational efficiencies.
Reducing your fleet’s carbon footprint makes both environmental and financial sense, and Mahony Fleet is here to help you move with change.
Financial advantages of low-CO2 fleets
Operational savings for BEVs come from their lower fuel and maintenance costs, as they have fewer moving parts requiring maintenance than traditional vehicles. For PHEVs and HEVs, savings are achieved through reduced fuel consumption and the associated tax benefits.
Both zero and low-CO2-emitting vans and cars attract reduced road tax, potentially saving businesses thousands annually across larger fleets. For drivers, the zero emissions of BEVs and lower emissions of PHEVs result in reduced Benefit-inKind (BIK). These tax incentives and fuel savings mean transitioning to low-emission vehicles significantly reduces costs for the company and employees over time.
received for several years. We believe understanding the differences between modern powertrains is key to making the best choice for your fleet, and we’re available to help your company move with change.
Battery electric vehicles
BEVs are fully electric vehicles that require external charging. Producing zero tailpipe emissions, BEVs are the most environmentally friendly option and ideal for companies aiming to achieve net-zero carbon targets quickly.
Tax incentives and fuel savings mean transitioning to low-emission vehicles significantly reduces costs.
Reducing your fleet’s carbon footprint can be one of the quickest ways to achieve your company’s overall environmental goals while delivering tangible financial rewards. At Mahony Fleet, we have been supplying vehicles and fleet services to Irish companies since 1966 and have witnessed significant changes in our customers’ vehicle needs for nearly 60 years.
‘How to navigate the electrification of both car and van fleets’ is one of the most common questions we have
Irish construction firm is building towards a better sustainable future
Astute companies in the engineering sector are integrating sustainable solutions into every facet of their operations and learning best practices by collaborating with their peers.
EPlug-in hybrid vehicles
PHEVs combine an internal combustion engine with a rechargeable battery. They allow for short trips in electric-only mode, reducing emissions and fuel costs while providing the flexibility of petrol or diesel for longer journeys. PHEVs are a practical choice for fleets that want to begin their journey to electrification.
Hybrid electric vehicles
HEVs use a self-charging battery system that doesn’t require external charging. While not entirely electric, HEVs are more fuel-efficient and emit less CO2 than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. Contact Mahony Fleet to learn more about our available fleet leasing options and what powertrains we think would best suit your company’s needs.
ngineering may not be synonymous with sustainability, but many large firms have long focused on emissions reduction and efficiency while smaller companies are now leveraging resources to begin their sustainability efforts.
For example, Sorensen Civil Engineering, a construction company established in 1977, has been involved in building everything from wastewater treatment plants and flood relief schemes to fishing harbour developments and transport infrastructure. It started to transform its sustainability approach after a decade of substantial growth.
Putting sustainability at the heart of decision-making
“In the last 18 months, we’ve grown from 80 employees to around 180,” says John Wallace, Managing Director. “This allows us to align with other major players in the industry and embed sustainable practices across our operations.” Initiatives include reducing company carbon emissions with plant machinery that runs on HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and prioritising environmental stewardship.
Greater emphasis on sustainability isn’t just good for the planet. It also helps attract and retain the best industry personnel. “When a firm experiences significant growth, it needs to ensure it has enough people — and the right people. Potential employees want to work for firms
that have a good culture. They also want to know where a company is on its sustainability journey.”
It can be a challenge for smaller firms to know where to start in the sustainability realm. “The first thing we did was become a member of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. This is an online knowledge and resource platform featuring webinars and e-learning tools, where clients, contractors and suppliers work together to share best practices. It’s helped our employees and managers put sustainability at the heart of decision-making.”
Learning from more established sustainability players Nevertheless, John admits that his firm still has much to learn when it comes to sustainability, although a new development has opened up an exciting opportunity on this front. Recently, it was announced that a joint venture of Irish construction giant John Sisk & Son and Sorensen Civil Engineering had been selected as the main contractor for the €150 million Adare Bypass in County Limerick.
“This is a significant contract involving the construction of a bypass to divert traffic away from Adare ahead of the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor. It’s also a massive learning opportunity because Sisk is a leading player in the sustainability market. By learning from their expertise, we’ll be able to make our own operations more sustainable.”
Stephen Mahony Managing Director, Mahony Fleet
John Young Sales Director, Mahony Fleet
INTERVIEW WITH John Wallace Managing Director, Sorensen Civil Engineering
Sponsored by Mahony Fleet
Sponsored by Sorensen
WRITTEN BY
Tony Greenway
Aviation has no choice but to look at sustainable fuels. Otherwise, it is going to become more and more unacceptable to fly.
Backing transport firms in sustainable transport approach
Global consultant Jacobs is a specialist in sustainable solutions, supporting transport organisations across the public and private sectors to advance decarbonisation agendas.
Which areas are you working in to introduce new sustainable technologies?
With approximately 45,000 people worldwide, Jacobs works with transportation and other clients to deliver equitable, sustainable solutions for smart, integrated critical infrastructure that serves people and communities globally.
We support sectors from aviation, highways and bridges, rail and transit to ports and maritime: helping airports prepare for a future with hydrogen aircraft fuels; looking at the transition of diesel to batterypowered trains; and supporting the expansion of EV (electric vehicle) infrastructure.
How advanced is the introduction of battery-powered trains?
Testing is expected to begin soon, for example, with the introduction of a new battery-powered train to Irish Rail’s Dublin Area Rapid Transport (DART) system. These trains can use the existing electrification infrastructure and new fast-charging installations to charge the batteries to allow operation on non-electrified lines and allow the replacement of diesel trains. Jacobs has supported the Irish DART and similar projects in the UK. Similar technologies are also in service or are being introduced in other countries such as Germany, Austria and the Netherlands.
What are the challenges of EV charging?
Road users want easy access to sustainable fuel. We are involved in projects to accelerate delivery of EV charging infrastructure on road networks, helping clients in areas including funding, demand forecasting, strategic planning, service provision and delivery models. There is a clear appetite out there, but it is more than just being mindful of EV drivers as the end users. Public and commercial entities across transport, infrastructure and energy must collaborate to get the right infrastructure on the ground.
What is the future for aviation fuels?
Sponsored by Jacobs
We are helping airports understand how to be ready for new fuels. While sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is similar to existing aviation fuel, hydrogen will be more challenging for airports, particularly for larger aircraft, which will need liquid hydrogen to be kept at -253C. Our projects look at forecasting demand for hydrogen, understanding the infrastructure required and how it fits into a traditional master plan for an airport. In terms of timescale, smaller aircraft using gaseous hydrogen will likely operate this decade, with larger aircraft fuelled by liquid hydrogen potentially operating from around 2040 onwards.
Why should carriers start to think about alternative fuels?
It is a vital contribution to global targets around sustainability, and particularly important for aviation. Airports can decarbonise their own footprint, but that is just a fraction of aviation’s impact, as almost all emissions come from flying. If we keep growing without decarbonising, then aviation will continue to be a huge carbon emitter as other industries decarbonise. Aviation has no choice but to look at sustainable fuels. Otherwise, it is going to become more and more unacceptable to fly.
Is there an appetite to transition towards more sustainable technologies?
Most clients are keen to meet environmental targets, but implementing these goals is challenging due to the complexity and multidisciplinary nature of the subject. Moreover, organisations vary in their maturity, understanding and intent in this area.
We can identify the best solutions, determine how they might safely be introduced and explore digital technologies that enable sustainability.
The intersection of transport and energy is ripe for commercial investment, but it’s crucial to ensure effective collaboration between the public and private sectors.
How do you support organisations on their decarbonisation journey?
We bring our knowledge and lessons learned from delivering hundreds of projects around the world to support clients. We have technical, engineering, commercial, economic and planning expertise, and energy teams that offer insights to our clients from our global experience. We offer clients advice on how best to navigate the transition to sustainable power sources. As the leading provider of sciencebased consulting and advisory solutions in aviation, we are actively involved in multiple research projects.
What does the future hold?
We are often asked: is the future SAF, hydrogen or battery-electric? The answer is all of these, and each must be developed if we are to effectively reduce our climate impact.
INTERVIEW WITH Stuart Brown Professional Head of Rolling Stock, Jacobs
INTERVIEW WITH Chris Pickard Director, Sustainable Aviation, Jacobs
INTERVIEW WITH Ben Tirunawarkarisu Director, Programmes and Advisory, Jacobs
WRITTEN BY Mark Nicholls
provided by The Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI).
Simon McKeever CEO, Irish Exporters Association
What do CSRD and CSDDD mean for the transport and logistics sector?
Find out why companies should apply both the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) together.
The two directives complement each other by providing the framework and guidance necessary for companies to transition to climateneutral by 2050. This is crucial for the transport and logistics sector’s efforts to tackle climate change and support environmentally sustainable practices. Companies should apply both together.
So what do CSRD and CSDDD mean?
The CSRD mandates transparency in sustainability reporting within financial reports.
The CSDDD requires companies to implement due diligence for environm ental and social responsibility across their supply chain and report annually.
rolled out to companies with more than 250 employees and a balance sheet of €25 million in 2025, and in 2026 to listed SMEs (with an opt-out to 2028).
CSDDD will be rolled out in 2027 to companies with more than 5,000 employees and a turnover of €1.5 billion. In 2028, it will apply to companies with more than 3,000 employees and a €900 million turnover. In 2029, it will include companies with more than 1,000 employees and a €450 million turnover.
By measuring, quantifying, and disclosing carbon emissions, companies can track their progress toward emission reduction goals and make informed decisions about sustainability strategies in their business.
By measuring, quantifying and disclosing carbon emissions, companies can track their progress toward emission reduction goals and make informed decisions about sustainability strategies in their business. There are some exemptions and, of course, penalties for noncompliance.
How will this affect the sector, particularly SMEs?
CSRD will be rolled out initially in 2024 to large public-interest entities with more than 500 employees (and EU companies already reporting under the Non-Financial Reporting Directive). It will subsequently be
Nonetheless, it is crucial for SMEs to understand that larger entities will demand higher compliance from their supply chains to meet these regulations. Therefore, SMEs must proactively understand and prepare for them.
How to find support and training
The Irish Exporters Association runs a comprehensive CSRD and Sustainability Reporting course, as well as webinars and bespoke training. The IEA collaborates with a range of business partners that support companies to minimise their environmental impact.
How IAM and drones are revolutionising the aviation industry in Ireland
Over its history, aviation has evolved into one world’s safest and most innovative industries. Innovative Air Mobility (IAM) is no exception.
The term IAM covers both new electric Vertical TakeOff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. Through integration with the existing aviation infrastructure, it is set to revolutionise the aviation industry.
Drones expand aviation applications
Drones, not simply a means of transport, significantly expand the scope of traditional aviation. Drone Industry Insights identify 264 different applications in 17 industries, such as agriculture, arts, entertainment, energy, healthcare, telecoms and security to name just a few.
Ireland is one of the leading States in embracing this sector. Some examples currently operational in Ireland include Wing and Apian in South Dublin, transporting blood, medication and small medical devices between hospitals, pharmacies and labs in minutes. Manna Drones also deliver goods in minutes to the consumer in and over Dublin’s suburbs, avoiding traffic jams and saving the city from CO2 emission.
Enhancing surveillance and transport
Shannon-based A-techSYN manufactures long-range drones that can vertically take off and land while remaining airborne for up to six hours. These are by the Navel Service in Drug Interdiction to extend their surveillance range and can be used to help the operators of linear infrastructure (railways, highways, high voltage wires, gas pipelines, etc.) to provide unprecedentedly effective monitoring of these structures.
Dutch company Kitepower is testing tethered kites in Co. Mayo, as part of Mayo County Council’s MegaAWE project, to generate airborne wind energy. It’s a cost-effective alternative to existing wind turbines.
Additionally, eVTOLs are making their way to our skies, with Dublin-based Avolon, one of the world’s leading aviation leasing companies, placing a pre-order of 500 from Vertical Aerospace. Ireland’s size offers an ideal environment for airborne taxis and other IAM.
To help prepare for the widening spread of drones and IAM, the Authority has partnered with Lero, Dublin City Council and Maynooth University in a two-year Drone Innovation Partnership. It provides examples of good regulatory practices to make the above list of innovations and applications even longer but, most importantly, safe.
Jim Gavin Chief Operations Officer Irish Aviation Authority
Aircraft delivery solutions and setting new standards
Aviation services company offers specialised services in ferry flights, aviation recruitment, search and contracting solutions to a global clientele, including companies throughout the industry’s supply chain.
As the aviation sector continues to navigate turbulence, SG Aviation, a leading aviation services provider, celebrates two decades of resilience and innovation in 2024. Facing unprecedented shifts brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, the company has refocused its strategy to seize opportunities in a changing landscape. With its reputation for excellence, the company is now poised to address key challenges and opportunities over the next years as the industry evolves.
Aircraft delivery services
During Covid-19, we transitioned our aircraft delivery services with early alignment of EASA PART NCC regulations, our ferry flight services now operate with oversight from the Irish Aviation Authority. This proactive shift has transformed how we manage client projects, strengthened our internal compliance and enhanced our expertise.
Significant investment in this transition is already yielding returns, as clients increasingly value the heightened safety and regulatory assurance for non-commercial operations. While the industry remains competitive, we are well-positioned for growth, providing financially secure, regulation-focused solutions to meet the evolving needs of key players.
Aviation-focused recruitment growth
Over these past years, our recruitment business has expanded into complementary sectors like space and, in 2024, launched Avex Search. This is a new SG Aviation Group brand specialising in executive placements from senior to C-suite levels across the industry’s supply chain. We have partnered this year with leading companies in Ireland, and the wider EMEA regions, delivering exceptional talent for high-impact projects.
The global market presents exciting opportunities, and we are building on the strong foundation established in previous years. We also deeply value the continued trust of our loyal customers. Despite challenging market conditions, their renewed activity has been incredibly reassuring and reaffirming in terms of our market position.
Continued growth amidst challenges
Our outlook one to two years ahead remains positive while recognising the continuing challenges presented within the wider global market. However, we continue to carve out new opportunities, build value propositions in our services and develop our team, ensuring we evolve stronger as markets move forward.
How Ireland became a global hub for
international aviation leasing
Learn how has Ireland become a leader in the global aviation leasing industry and how it can continue to be a centre of excellence within the aviation sector.
The foundation of Ireland’s aircraft leasing industry can be traced back to the establishment of Guinness Peat Aviation in Shannon in 1975. Ireland’s rich aviation heritage, skilled talent pool, comprehensive double tax treaty network, pro-enterprise policies and stable political and legal system have fostered a fast-growing, internationally oriented aviation leasing industry.
Increasingly mainstream aircraft leasing
The past number of years has seen aircraft leasing become more mainstream. Leasing an aircraft allows the airline to manage cash flow while growing its fleet and giving flag carriers access to the newest, most fuelefficient aircraft on the market. Research shows that almost half of the world’s commercial fleet is now leased, and this trend is expected to grow further.
Economic contribution
Ireland’s aircraft leasing industry is crucial to the International Financial Services sector. It significantly contributes to the economy through job creation, revenue generation and broader economic impacts. PwC research 1 — based on responses to a detailed survey provided by members of Aircraft Leasing Ireland (ALI), the Ibec group representing aircraft leasing in Ireland — found that the industry contributes significantly to the economy through two key factors: employee economic impact and Irish suppliers’ expenditure (USD823 million), alongside its payroll exchequer contribution (USD152 million). This expenditure supports 8,543 full-time equivalent employee jobs in Ireland, up 71% since 2018.
Sustainability essential for aviation
Sustainability is a prerequisite for the continued long-term growth and success of the aviation industry. ALI launched its Sustainability Charter in October 2022. It is based upon the aviation industry’s ambition to achieve net zero in 2050 and the ALI members’ desire to be part of the solution.
Ireland’s aviation needs stability
Ireland is an unrivalled centre of excellence within aviation. To continue succeeding in a competitive landscape, it must maintain its reputation as a predictable and commercially conscious regime. This involves ensuring measures or policies do not add costs or complexity to aircraft leasing while supporting aviation’s path to net zero by 2050.
Source: 1. https://www.pwc.ie/reports/taking-flight-2023.html
Growth of Ireland as a location for the aviation industry
Ireland’s aviation sector now spans the full value chain from airlines to lessors, component manufacture to aftermarket maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and parts services.
Ryanair may have grown to be Europe’s largest airline and the world’s third-largest by passengers carried, but unquestionably, Ireland is an important global player thanks to being at the centre of the world’s aircraft leasing industry. It’s estimated that at least one in every five commercial aircraft flying now is either owned, managed or registered in Ireland through the 40-plus Aircraft Leasing companies in Shannon or Dublin.
Partnership between government and industry
The industry in Ireland can best be described as a connected ‘ecosystem’ with national development agencies like IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland (EI), Solas and Shannon Airport’s IASC. They all support significant multinational and local company investments in training, R&D and development assistance, all designed to best ensure the industry maintains and enhances its global competitiveness and skills. Similarly, the Irish Aviation Authority has been a key enabler and supporter of agency and industry efforts to continue developing and adapting to market changes.
Ongoing growth of the sector in Ireland In recent years, the industry has seen significant new investments by Lufthansa Technik for (advanced engine part repairs in Shannon), a return to its engine maintenance heritage in Kildare for engine services as well as expansions at IAC (international aircraft painting) and Standard Aero in Cork.
The industry has also seen significant growth by Irish-owned firms like Atlantic Aviation MRO in Shannon and Dublin Aerospace with its new Centre for Landing Gear Repair. Not to be outdone, Ryanair has opened and already expanded its new MRO base in Shannon. Away from the airport across the island, Ireland now also hosts multiple manufacturing and after-market operations including Airbus, Boeing, Honeywell, Panasonic and Collins Aerospace, all supporting a global aviation client base.
More people now work in the aviation industry in Ireland than ever before, highlighting how globally competitive and capable the Industry in Ireland has become. Despite its size, Ireland is estimated to get about 4% of all new aviation investments in Europe, with both the IDA and EI expecting additional positive news in the coming months.
AnnMarie Mahon Commercial Director,
Gerard Flaherty Vice President, Aerospace and Engineering, IDA Ireland
Elizabeth Bowen Director, Aircraft Leasing Ireland