Plans to make more places available for aircraft mechanic apprenticeships in the Republic of Ireland have been welcomed by Atlantic Aviation Group (AAG).

The Irish independent MRO specialist says that it will deliver an additional 75 places from September this year due to the expansion announced by the Irish Department of Further and Higher Education and the National Apprenticeship Office.

AAG says this will play a key role in a national effort to double annual apprenticeship intake from 79 to 160. The move is seen as a vital response to growing global demand for skilled aircraft maintenance engineers.

Chief executive Shane O’Neill said: “We are proud to support this expansion and to train apprentices not just for our organisation, but for the benefit of the entire Irish aviation sector.

“This investment reflects the strategic importance of developing a strong pipeline of engineering talent to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving industry.”

As one of Europe’s leading independent MROs AAG employs more than 800 people at locations in Shannon and Brize Norton in the UK.

It has a history spanning 65 years, AAG offers a wide range of services including aircraft maintenance, design, engineering, Part 147 training, and aircraft management solutions.

AAG considers itself a leader in aviation training. The firm provides education and on the job experience through its EASA Part 147-approved training academy.

The company’s apprenticeship programme has produced numerous award-winning graduates and continues to be a vital stepping stone for careers in aviation.

Anthony Brennan, chief people officer at AAG, said: “Doubling the number of training places is not just a win for the industry—it’s a win for apprentices across the country who will now have greater access to a rewarding and internationally respected career path.

“We look forward to welcoming a new cohort of ambitious future engineers to Shannon later this year.”

Announcing the apprenticeship expansion, Ireland’s minister for further and higher education, research, innovation and science, James Lawless said:

“I am pleased we were able to rapidly double training places for this important apprenticeship and bolster Ireland’s position as a key player in the global aviation industry.

“It is essential the apprenticeship system is agile and can scale up or down quickly as required, based on the dynamic needs of the sectors we serve.”