Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:81. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the number of passengers his Department estimate will use Cork Airport in 2022. [33830/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 23 June 2021
Ceisteanna (81, 82)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:82. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the number of passengers his Department estimate will use Shannon Airport in 2022. [33831/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 81 and 82 together.
As the Deputy will understand, given the continued uncertainty around international travel resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is very difficult to estimate the passenger numbers for next year.
The most recent industry predictions are that passenger numbers at Ireland’s State Airports are expected to return to 2019 levels (1.7m passengers in Shannon’s case and 2.6m passengers at Cork Airport) by 2023 / 2024.
However, the Government plan for the gradual reopening of international travel from 19 July has provided some much needed clarity to the aviation industry. Since this announcement, Ryanair resumed operations at Shannon Airport on 1 June with further routes expected to be added in the coming weeks. Aer Lingus flights on the Shannon – London/Heathrow route are expected to resume in September.
In recognition of the significant challenges being faced by Cork and Shannon airports, the Government established a Covid-19 Regional State Airports Programme earlier this year. This is providing both capital and operational supports to these airports in 2021 with an available budget of €32.1m.
Furthermore, on 24 February 2021, my Department secured European Commission approval for a €26 million funding scheme for Irish Airports. As part of this scheme, a €20m damages measure has been established to support State airports (Dublin, Cork and Shannon). This funding will provide State airports with flexibility to roll out route incentives/charges rebates, in consultation with airlines, with a view to supporting recovery and growth of connectivity.
The Department is currently assessing applications for this funding and would hope to be in a position to disburse this compensation in the coming weeks. In order to ensure parity of treatment, funding will be allocated to airports proportionate to the damage caused. In this regard, funding will be allocated proportionately in line with 2019 passenger numbers at the airports.