A decision on whether to limit overnight take-offs at Dublin Airport to fewer than 36 flights per night is expected to be announced today by An Coimisúin Pleánala.
The planning commission proposed in September to cap late-night flights at 13,000 per year, representing almost a two-thirds reduction from 2023 levels. Airlines have warned of significant impacts from the proposed restrictions.
Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien briefed his Fianna Fáil parliamentary party last night on the issue, confirming that a decision is due today. He assured members that the party would “continue to be” a supporter of Dublin Airport.
The proposal emerged after local residents’ groups and environmental activists appealed a planning decision that would have extended north runway opening times by two hours. However, their appeal was rejected.
Dublin Airport operator DAA has strongly opposed the restrictions, describing them as a “backward step that will significantly impact aviation and passenger numbers.” The company argued there were “significant contradictions” in replacing existing noise quotas with flight number limits.
DAA warned that a 60% reduction in nighttime flights would have “significant implications” for both passengers and airlines operating from Ireland’s busiest airport.
The decision will affect Dublin Airport’s capacity to accommodate late-night and early-morning flights, potentially impacting route networks and passenger convenience.