Government looking to address passenger cap at Dublin Airport

The Government are set to publish the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026, which will provide them with the power to address the cap at Ireland’s largest airport.

Minister for Transport, Daragh O’Brien, will engage with An Coimisiún Pleanála, who are carrying out the environmental assessment required under EU law before amending the passenger cap.

The DAA’s ‘Infrastructure Application’ is being assessed by Fingal County Council and is being progressed along with the Bill.

This planning application aims to raise the passenger cap, as well as to include capacity-enhancing projects and an integrated transport hub.

Minister for Transport Daragh O’Brien said: “This Government recognises the strategic importance of Dublin Airport as our primary international gateway, and the vital role it plays in supporting economic growth, connectivity and jobs across the State.

“I am delighted to have delivered on the commitment set out in the Programme for Government to address the passenger cap, with today’s Government approval for the publication of the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026. The Bill will now be presented to the Houses of the Oireachtas to follow the parliamentary process through to enactment, which I am hopeful of concluding before the summer recess.

“I am committed to ensuring that the legislation is enacted this summer, that the necessary environmental assessments are completed within the strict timelines set out in the Bill, and that an Order is made to amend or revoke the passenger cap as soon as possible. I am equally committed to ensuring the continued growth of the airport is delivered in a sustainable and balanced way, and that daa continues to act as a good neighbour.”