A new Regional Airports Programme (RAP) for the period 2021 to 2025 was published on 4 February 2021. This Programme will continue to support Ireland’s smallest airports, including Ireland West Airport, that operate scheduled services and handle fewer than 1 million annual passengers. Capital supports under this Programme are targeted at grant-aiding investments in safety and security enhancements and also assist the regional airports in ensuring they comply with international regulatory requirements in these areas. Funding will also support sustainability objectives, enabling these airports to identify and implement climate related efficiencies and build resilience against the likely impacts of climate change. The Programme also provides the necessary funding to support the Public Service Obligation air service between Donegal and Dublin.
In a substantial increase in funding available under this Programme in 2022, it will deliver €26m in current and €10m in capital funding to support regional airports of Shannon, Cork, Ireland West, Donegal, and Kerry and the Donegal - Dublin PSO service.
Capital funding under the RAP is allocated to eligible airports annually following an assessment of project proposals submitted by airports at the start of each year. Ireland West Airport, along with other eligible airports, will shortly be given the opportunity to submit their capital project proposals for consideration for funding in 2022. Invitations for current funding will issue to airports, including Ireland West Airport, in 2022 with funding allocations normally made by year end.