8 December 2025
What makes a great flying club? Whatever it is, Limerick Flying Club has it in spades and last week won the top award as Aviation Company of the Year in Ireland’s Aviation Industry Awards 2025.
The club, based at Coonagh Aerodrome two miles west of the city, also won the General & Sport Aviation Award.
According to the Awards organisers, Limerick Flying Club was recognised for its safety-centred strategy, structured talent-development initiatives and measurable community impact.
Coonagh Aerodrome following recent upgrades. The club’s three Tecnams are visible. Photo: William Gaule
“Limerick Flying Club has demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in aviation, combining safety, innovation, and community engagement to outstanding effect,” the judges said.
“Their commitment to nurturing talent, promoting best practices, and delivering memorable experiences has set a benchmark across the industry.”
Judges also noted the club’s data-driven performance monitoring, commitment to innovation and strong governance. They highlighted how its sustained investment in skills, community partnerships and the promotion of best practice has reinforced its influence within Ireland’s aviation ecosystem.
Other winners in the Awards included airport operations, technology, sustainability, and innovation, highlighting the breadth of competition across the industry.
Coonagh Aerodrome. Image: Google Earth
Limerick Flying Club (LFC) is a not-for-profit club established by aviation enthusiasts in 1971 following the relocation of Shannon Flying Services to Galway. The founders, Foncy Hobbins, Brendan Beegan and Bryan Carpenter, with the permission of airfield owner Arthur Toppin, acquired its first aircraft, a Cessna 150E (EI-AOO) that year.
Over the decades, the club has grown from a handful of members to a thriving community of over 100 members, operating modern Tecnam aircraft alongside privately owned planes.
