A new report released today has calculated that noise from Dublin Airport has caused health impacts on local residents valued at over €772 million. The study, commissioned by St Margarets The Ward Residents Group (SMTW) and prepared by PMCA Economic Consulting, examined data on aircraft movements and noise pollution affecting communities in Fingal and County Meath.
According to the findings, nearly 17,000 people have developed cardiovascular issues attributed to airport noise exposure, while approximately 121,000 residents have experienced various health problems. The report further indicates that over 71,000 local residents were categorized as “highly annoyed” by airport noise, with more than 32,500 suffering from severe sleep disturbances.
The study’s methodology drew comparisons with a 2023 Brussels Airport analysis, which found similar patterns of disturbance affecting approximately 109,000 people with sleep disruption and 53,000 with cardiovascular issues around the Belgian facility, resulting in potential health economic costs of nearly €2.5 billion annually.
SMTW spokesperson Dr. Niamh Maher called for reconsideration of airport expansion plans in light of these findings, stating that “aircraft noise is causing real harm to local people and now we can see that cost in economic terms.” She advocated for “balanced airport development” rather than maximizing passenger numbers.
The report’s release coincides with Dublin Airport operator DAA launching a new noise information portal for community members. The online tool aims to enhance transparency by providing location-based data on airport operations and noise management, allowing residents to analyze noise conditions at specific locations.
DAA Chief Executive Kenny Jacobs acknowledged the challenges of balancing airport operations with community needs, stating, “We take seriously the impact that airport operations has on the local community.” He noted that community feedback had emphasized demands for greater transparency and information access.
According to The Journal, the debate over Dublin Airport’s impact comes as Taoiseach Micheál Martin recently called it “imperative” to lift the €32 million passenger cap at the facility, which handles approximately 85% of Ireland’s air passenger traffic.