Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 March 2024
61. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the future plans for Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel; if the aerodrome has the capacity to maintain the two Airbus C295W’s, located at the site, and the C295 military transport aircraft in production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12765/24]
View answerAs the Deputy notes, the Air Corps recently took delivery of two new Airbus C295 aircraft, and will be taking delivery of another one of these aircraft in the future. These aircraft represent a significant investment in the Air Corps, and bring a substantial capability across a range of mission types. I understand that my Department has not been advised that the current capacity is inadequate for these new craft. The Deputy may wish to note that my Department is actively engaged with the military authorities in respect of the general modernisation of hangars in Baldonnel and such projects have been identified in the Infrastructure Plan.
