Airlines are threatening to cancel flights to Dublin if the authorities do not allow an increase in passenger traffic

Dublin Airport is embroiled in a heated dispute regarding passenger traffic. The decision to increase the limit by 25%, from 32 million to 40 million passengers per year, is still pending. In response, airlines are threatening to cancel flights if this adjustment does not occur.

Airlines for America (A4A), an industry group representing major carriers like American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, FedEx, UPS, and others, is advocating for the expansion. They argue that without it, tourism in Ireland will suffer, and jobs at Dublin Airport will be jeopardized. The Irish Independent has covered the ongoing disagreement.

A4A has noted significant growth in passenger numbers on US-Ireland routes, with a 76% increase from 2013 to 2023. They anticipate similar growth in the foreseeable future.

Various airport-related businesses and airlines are also echoing calls for expansion, warning that airlines departing from the airport would have dire consequences for the economy. Given that Irish businesses rely on A4A and the airport, the departure of such a prominent group would severely impact their financial stability.

The IAG Group, owner of British Airways, Aer Lingus, Vueling, and Iberia Express, echoed A4A's sentiments. Additionally, Etihad, JetBlue, Egyptair, WestJet, HiSky, Aurigny, Ryanair, and numerous other companies have expressed their intentions to increase passenger traffic to Ireland.

Conversely, residents residing near the airport and environmental organizations have been protesting against the expansion, citing concerns about aircraft noise and environmental impacts.

The Fingal County Council, tasked with making the final decision, is facing pressure from both factions. A verdict is expected by the end of February.