Cork Airport Bids Farewell to 45-Year Aviation Veteran Ann Walsh
Cork Airport legend Ann Walsh retires after 45 years keeping our skies safe. From weather reports to air traffic admin, a true aviation hero.
A Ringaskiddy woman who has been keeping Cork's skies safe for nearly half a century has signed off from her final shift at Cork Airport's air traffic control tower.
Ann Walsh concluded her remarkable 45-year career with AirNav Ireland today, having started as a fresh-faced communications assistant in September 1980. The dedicated administrator has been an integral part of the team ensuring aircraft safety at Cork Airport for longer than many of her colleagues have been alive.
Walsh's journey began straight after completing her Leaving Certificate and a commercial course, when she joined the Department of Transport and was assigned to Cork Airport as a communications assistant.
Ann Walsh:
"My job was to type up the latest weather reports every 30 minutes and weather forecasts every three hours and circulate them to the air traffic control officers. When that office closed, I was assigned to the Air Traffic Control and Engineers administration office, and I have worked there ever since."
Today, AirNav Ireland CEO Ger Caffery travelled to Cork's air traffic control tower to personally recognise Walsh's extraordinary service spanning four and a half decades in air traffic management.
Ger Caffery, CEO AirNav Ireland:
"On behalf of all of us in AirNav Ireland, I thank Ann for dedication and commitment over the past 45 years. All of us will miss her presence here and we wish her every happiness in her retirement."
During her tenure, Walsh has witnessed dramatic changes in aviation technology and a significant increase in air traffic at Cork Airport. Throughout these transformations, she has consistently provided essential administrative services to air traffic control officers and engineers responsible for aircraft safety.
Walsh credits the strong teamwork and friendship among tower colleagues as playing a vital role in maintaining the safety standards that protect all aircraft arriving and departing from Cork.
Despite her sadness at leaving, Walsh remains optimistic about the future of her beloved workplace.
Ann Walsh:
"I am very sad to leave, but I have no doubt the person who takes over from me will have a great time working with this team."
AirNav Ireland operates as the air navigation service provider for Irish-controlled airspace, managing thousands of flights daily with a focus on safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Further information about AirNav Ireland's services and career opportunities is available at www.airnav.ie.
