Transforming Dublin Airport

We have recently deferred our plans for a new parallel runway in light of the current economic climate.

The project will now be activated when certain growth triggers, that make it clear that there is a market demand for the new runway, are reached.

While the Northern runway is being deferred, we have indicated to stakeholders that our preferred option is for a runway of 3,660 metres, as this will provide greater flexibility over the longer term and stimulate direct long-haul services to key markets.

The new runway will increase the potential long-term airfield capacity at Dublin Airport to about 50 million passengers per year. However, growing the airport to that size would require the construction of a third passenger terminal.

The new runway will be built almost two kilometres north and parallel to the existing main runway at Dublin Airport.

The planning process for the new parallel runway started in 2002 when work began on the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the development. Our plans for a new parallel runway were approved by An Bord Pleanála (the Irish Planning Appeals Board) in August 2007.

Having closely examined the 31 conditions that were incorporated in that 2007 planning approval, the DAA has concluded that Conditions Three and Five impose restrictions that would significantly reduce Dublin Airport's operational capacity at peak travel periods. 

Condition Five states that when the new runway is brought into operation, the average number of aircraft landings and take-offs at Dublin Airport shall not exceed 65 between the hours of 11pm and 7am. At present, on average, there are 72 landings and take-offs between 11pm and 7am at Dublin Airport. 

Condition Three states that the new parallel runway will not be used for take-offs or landings between the hours of 11pm and 7am. The hour between 6am and 7am is currently the busiest hour for flight departures at Dublin Airport, while the period from 11pm until midnight is one of the busiest times for flight arrivals.

The delivery of a new parallel runway is of national importance to the Irish economy.  While the DAA is conscious of the concerns of some of our neighbouring communities, we must also ensure that we maintain an appropriate balance in meeting the operating requirements of our airlines and passengers.