The Long-Running Saga on Dublin Airport’s Passenger Cap is Set to Take Another Turn.
DAA is preparing to resubmit its planning application to Fingal County Council in an effort to lift the cap on passenger numbers, reigniting a debate that has been ongoing for months.
DAA is seeking approval to increase the airport’s capacity to 36 million passengers annually. In a planning notice published Wednesday, the operator confirmed that no physical expansion is proposed—only a change to existing restrictions.
A DAA spokeswoman stressed the urgency of the issue, stating: “Resolving the passenger cap is crucial for Ireland’s economy and connectivity. The Programme for Government recognizes this and has committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve a solution swiftly.”
This comes after FCC rejected DAA’s initial application last month, citing regulatory non-compliance and an inadequate public notice description. The move frustrated DAA, with a spokesman previously describing the council’s decision as “baffling and bewildering” and calling for planning authority to be shifted to An Bord Pleanála.
With Dublin Airport already nearing its current capacity and passenger demand expected to rise, the outcome of this latest application will be closely watched. One thing is certain—this contentious issue is far from over.
