Popular aviation influencer Shaun Dunne has taken on a new role at Dublin Airport, a move he sees as a significant step towards his long-term goal of becoming a commercial pilot. Dunne, 19, who gained a following through his social media page Shaun's Aviation, started training as a passenger service agent shortly after finishing his final secondary school exams.
Dunne's social media presence began as a childhood fascination with radio scanners and has since grown into a notable source for aviation news and travel updates, amassing nearly 32,000 followers. He now balances his airport duties with maintaining his online platform.
"Pilot is still the aim," Dunne stated, emphasizing that his new position provides valuable experience and financial support for his pilot training, which can be costly without a cadetship. He is currently working at the check-in desks and will eventually move on to boarding passengers and making announcements. Dunne has established boundaries regarding what he can share about his job online, adhering to Dublin Airport's policies on branding and security-sensitive information.
His online recognition has also extended to his workplace, with colleagues and passengers aware of his social media activities. Dunne is often a source of information for travelers, particularly during disruptions when official airline communication may be limited. He described his first week on the terminal floor as "interesting" and has expressed that Shaun's Aviation will continue as a hobby he intends to maintain.
