Ryanair Calls for Removal of Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
Ryanair is pushing for the removal of what it calls a “bogus” passenger cap at Dublin Airport, which the airline claims is leading to a loss of routes, traffic, and jobs this summer. CEO Michael O’Leary recently appeared before the Oireachtas Transport Committee to discuss the issue, highlighting that the current cap of 32 million passengers annually is hindering growth opportunities.
O’Leary emphasized that the cap is causing Ireland to fall behind other EU countries and airports, resulting in missed opportunities for increased routes, traffic, and job creation. He noted that the airport’s second runway has the capacity to accommodate 60 million passengers annually, but the current restrictions are limiting its potential.
Ryanair’s chief commercial officer, Jason McGuinness, revealed that Dublin Airport has already lost 16 potential new routes due to the cap, indicating the need for immediate action to address the situation. The airline is urging the Transport Minister to intervene and eliminate the constraints that are impeding growth and competitiveness.