The blessing of the aircraft at Dublin Airport will take place for the 77th time this Christmas, after Father Des Doyle, chaplain of the Catholic Church at Dublin Airport, received security clearance to carry out the traditional blessing.
The tradition of blessing aircraft began in 1947 and has taken place on Christmas Day since 1967 when the airport is closed.
Fr Doyle has undergone the same vetting process as daa employees to be airside to counsel passengers, employees, and perform activities like the blessing of the planes.
CEO of daa, Kenny Jacobs said: “daa is always looking to the future, but we respect tradition as well. Safety is paramount in the aviation industry and Fr Des’s security clearance has enabled him to support the spiritual needs of Dublin Airport employees and passengers for many years. “The Christmas blessing is a cherished part of his ministry at the airport, and we are delighted to be able to support the continuance of this 76-year tradition.“We welcome people from all faiths and all walks of life to the airport and are committed to supporting all groups that wish to express their faith here.”
DAA provides a multi-faith prayer room in Terminal 2 for people of all faiths and spirituality.
Individuals without airside clearance will not be able to be facilitated on a temporary pass for similar events, but will be supported to hold landside events. Separately, Dublin Airport will celebrate the 60th anniversary of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Church at Dublin Airport on July 26, 2024.
