An Bord Pleanála has approved the expansion of Dublin Airport’s US Customs Pre-Clearance and Border Protection facility, reversing a previous refusal from Fingal County Council in July 2023.
The expansion aims to address chronic congestion at the existing pre-clearance facility, improving international connectivity and competitiveness for Dublin Airport as a secondary hub.
The airport operator welcomed the decision, stating it can now enhance the area for a better passenger experience without negatively impacting traffic safety or the local environment during construction.
A report from Coakley O’Neill highlighted capacity difficulties at the current facility and stressed the need for the new development to ensure efficient operation.
The pre-clearance facilities at Dublin and Shannon airports allow US-bound travellers to complete immigration and customs inspections before departure.
Coakley O’Neill shared: “Dublin Airport is the fifth largest hub for transatlantic connectivity in Europe and An Bord Pleanála recognised that the extension would promote Dublin Airport’s status as a secondary hub. It is therefore the case that the current CBP facility does not have the capacity to cater for the existing passengers. The proposed development is undeniably needed to ensure the efficient, comfortable and safe operation of the facility at Dublin Airport.”
