The US industry group Airlines for America has warned that failure to expand Dublin airport could negatively impact US tourism, foreign direct investment, and the Irish economy.
Major airlines, including American carriers like American Airlines, United, Delta, FedEx, and UPS, are pressuring planners to increase Dublin Airport’s passenger cap from 32m to 40m annually.
Airlines and business lobbies have emphasised the urgency for Fingal County Council to approve the increase in the passenger cap to sustain growth and prevent potential economic risks.
Concerns from airlines like Ryanair, British Airways, IAG, Aer Lingus, Emirates, and others also highlight the potential consequences of not expanding Dublin Airport, including the diversion of business to other airports and hampering growth opportunities.
Fingal County Council is expected to provide an update on the expansion decision by Monday, but planners may request additional time or information before finalizing their decision.
The planning application from the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) consists of over 7,000 pages, with over 370 submissions received from various stakeholders including individuals, resident groups, politicians, airlines, and business associations.
The volume of submissions and detailed planning application indicate the complexity and significance of the decision-making process regarding the Dublin Airport expansion.
Airlines for America said in a submission: “The number of passengers travelling between the United States and Ireland grew by 76pc between 2013 and 2023, representing an average annual growth rate of 5.8pc. A4A is anticipating a similar annual increase in US-Ireland passenger traffic in the coming years.”
Fingal council said: “An initial decision on the application is due later this month.”
