Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 November 2023
299. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport to indicate the extent to which our regional airports can contribute to easing the through traffic at Dublin Airport, thus making it a more satisfactory experience for travellers to and from this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53131/23]
View answerThe National Aviation Policy recognises the important role that regional airports play in their areas and in regional development.
Government policy on regional airports seeks to optimise conditions for connectivity and regional development, both for the social and economic benefits that can be derived from facilitating access to and from the associated regions.
That is why Government is continuing to support eligible regional airports under the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025. The current Programme provides support to Ireland’s smallest airports i.e., those that provide scheduled passenger services and handle fewer than 1 million annual passengers (on average over the two preceding financial years). This year alone, €36m has been provided by Government to support regional airports and the public service obligation air service between Donegal and Dublin.
In line with national aviation policy, I am committed to encouraging regional airports to attract new business, to achieve excellence in the delivery of service and value for passengers and airlines, and to make a sustainable contribution to their respective local economies and communities.
Traffic at regional airports has rebounded strongly after the pandemic. In this regard, I am pleased to advise that passenger traffic recorded at regional airports to October this year, shows a 9% increase over the same period in 2019 (the last comparable period before the pandemic).
I believe that our regional airports will continue to have an important role to play in supporting connectivity to our island. The further growth in passenger traffic expected at these airports in the coming years will enhance this regional connectivity.
