The passenger limit has been capped at 32 million passengers a year since 2007. The limit was set up to reduce traffic, noise pollution and other disturbances that impact the people in the locality of the airport.
The proposed removal of the passenger cap has sparked significant debate for several years. Local residents have expressed strong opposition, while businesses and aviation industry representatives argue that eliminating the restriction is vital for the continued expansion of the airline sector.
A spokesperson for Mr O’Brien said that removing the passenger cap is “a priority for the Minister of Transport,” adding that “lifting the cap and preventing any future cap is critically important for our country in terms of connectivity and economic growth.”
In recent years, however, the cap has been described as “a false inhibitor.” Mr O’Brien stated that Dublin Airport is “a critical employer” and “a critical piece of infrastructure” for the country.
However the Oireachtas Transport Committee have recommended that The Government should carry out an environmental and climate impact assessment before lifting the limit in Dublin Airport.
Airlines for America have stated that there may be repercussions for Ireland if the cap stays in place. Ryanair have also said that the continuation of this limit has led to them reducing the flights the have of offer by 10%
