Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 July 2025
123. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the position regarding the permitted use of Shannon Airport by the US Military is under review, in light of increasing military tensions involving the United States of America; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35419/25]
View answerUnder the terms of the Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order, 1952, all foreign military aircraft wishing to overfly, or land in, the State require diplomatic clearance from the Minister of Foreign Affairs.Diplomatic clearance is subject to strict conditions, including that the aircraft is unarmed; that it carries no arms, ammunition or explosives; that it does not engage in intelligence gathering; and that the flight in question does not form part of a military exercise or operation.The policy of diplomatic clearance is well known and is fully understood by the United States and other international partners, and is done in full compliance with Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality.Successive governments have made landing facilities available at a number of Irish airports to the United States and other foreign militaries for well over 50 years. Arrangements for foreign military aircraft to land in Irish airports are governed by strict conditions, as I have outlined. These conditions are applicable to foreign military aircraft from all other countries seeking to land in Ireland or overfly Irish airspace. My Department ensures detailed procedures are in place to ensure all relevant parties are fully aware of the requirements relating to applications for permission for foreign military aircraft to overfly or land in the State.
