Dublin Airport celebrated its 85th anniversary with a speech from CEO Kenny Jacobs, reflecting on the airport’s journey since its inception as Collinstown Airport.
Originally designed to handle 100,000 passengers annually, Dublin Airport now accommodates over 100,000 passengers daily.
The airport contributes approximately 2.5pc to the Irish economy, supporting 116,000 jobs and generating €9.6bn in economic value, with over 50pc of jobs created in Fingal.
Kenny Jacobs acknowledged Ireland’s aviation achievements and outlined the role of Dublin Airport in maintaining global connections.
The Speech
“Good morning, everyone. It’s a pleasure to have you here today on this momentous occasion. We’re celebrating a big milestone for Dublin Airport as it marks 85 years of operations. I’m thrilled to see such a diverse group representing various sectors of the aviation industry—our airline partners, handlers, the Department of Transport, the IAA, and all the partners involved with Dublin Airport on both the operational and commercial sides. Everyone is really welcome here today.
This is a fantastic day for us as we celebrate 85 years since what was originally called Collinstown Airport, now known as Dublin Airport, first opened. It all started 85 years ago, during very dark times for Europe. The Germans were about to invade Belgium, and Europe was in turmoil with very little air travel happening. Only the Irish, at that time, would think it’s a great idea to start an airport at Dublin.
The plan was to handle 100,000 passengers a year, with just a grass runway and a very small terminal building. Look at us today! For most of the year, we handle 100,000 passengers every single day. We now have two terminals, two runways, and a very bright future ahead.
It’s fitting that the first flight from Dublin was to Liverpool, symbolizing the close connections we have with the UK, our closest neighbor. Even today, Dublin to the UK remains the most popular route we have at the airport. Dublin Airport has been a game changer for the Irish economy, representing about 2.5pc of economic activity in Ireland. There are 116,000 jobs dependent on Dublin Airport, generating 9.6bn euros in economic value. That’s absolutely incredible! It’s an engine of our economy, and over 50pc of those jobs are created here in Fingal, which is why we’re delighted to be here with Fingal County Council.
Looking through the years, Ireland’s prosperity, happiness, and status in the world have grown alongside this airport. Never underestimate the important role Dublin Airport plays, especially in a time when barriers are going up and nations are looking inward. It’s important that Ireland, through Dublin Airport, continues to lead the world, remaining open for business and keeping our global connections strong.
This airport is all about people. In 85 years, over 700m people have traveled through Dublin Airport, and over 30,000 people have worked here. Today, it’s still about people—it’s about travel, connecting people, and building relationships. My very first flight was from this airport, and I also emigrated from Ireland through Dublin Airport. Fifteen years later, I returned. I understand what it means to come and go from Dublin Airport and its unique place in the Irish story.
The Irish excel in aviation, and sometimes we underestimate our achievements. Whether it’s the leasing industry, airports, airlines, or other aviation sectors, we are globally respected. Pioneers like Tony Ryan, who set up GPA and then Ryanair; Michael O’Leary, who made Ryanair what it is today; and Declan Ryan, who created Viva and is still involved in airlines in South America—all of these figures highlight Ireland’s unique position in global aviation. We need to be proud of this and leverage it for future growth.
Looking out at the crowd today, I see airport police, the fire service, operations, commercial teams—everyone is represented. This is all about the team, their dedication, professionalism, and passion for aviation, which have made this airport what it is today. I want to say a huge thank you to the team at Dublin Airport. Gary and his team are doing a fantastic job for passengers and airlines. Here’s to the next chapter of growth at Dublin Airport and a very bright future. Thank you!”
