Minister to Seek Cabinet Approval This Month to Scrap Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
The Minister for Transport will seek Cabinet approval this month to scrap Dublin Airport's 32 million passenger cap. This move, aimed at supporting economic growth, faces environmental concerns from the Green Party and the Transport Committee. US aviation officials also advocate for its removal.
The Minister for Transport is set to seek Cabinet approval this month for legislation to scrap the 32 million passenger cap at Dublin Airport. This proposed legislation would empower Darragh O’Brien to revoke or amend the current cap and prevent future caps.
The Department of Transport confirmed in February that the cap would be scrapped, citing Dublin Airport's essential role in Ireland’s economic growth. Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has been a vocal critic of the cap. The DAA welcomed the government's decision, while the Green Party expressed concerns about its impact on climate targets.
The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport's pre-legislative scrutiny of the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026 warned of gaps and potential legal challenges. It recommended an independent assessment of environmental and climate implications, noting the Bill does not address night flights. US aviation officials, including Chris Sununu of Airlines for America, have also pressed for the cap's removal, highlighting its contention for US airlines.