Cork Airport Embarks on Ambitious Expansion to Accommodate 5 Million Passengers Annually

The first of six significant capital projects to facilitate Cork Airport’s growth and handle up to 5 million passengers annually is now underway, beginning this summer.

Daa Outlines Plans for Major Capital Projects

Daa chief executive Kenny Jacobs announced the projects, including the demolition of the current terminal, slated for completion by the end of 2027.

With a record 3.1 million international passengers last year, Cork Airport expects to reach 3.3 million in 2023. Jacobs stated that achieving 5 million passengers within three years is feasible.

The initial project involves extending the security screening mezzanine to install new C3 screening machines, eliminating the need for liquid removal from carry-on bags.

Future Developments at Cork Airport

Subsequent projects include:

• Construction of a new carpark adjacent to the existing multi-storey carpark
• Development of a new solar farm to support airport operations
• Building of two forward boarding gates in the current terminal
• Demolition of the old terminal (likely early 2024) and construction of a new pier for additional aircraft

Jacobs emphasized, “These projects form the six building blocks for Cork Airport’s future. We’ll start work in the second half of this year and finish by 2027. This expansion will enable Cork Airport to handle more than 5 million passengers per year.”

Cork’s Growth and Dublin’s Capacity Challenge

January 2023 figures showed a 7% increase in passengers at Cork Airport compared to the previous year, while Dublin Airport’s numbers remained stagnant due to a cap.

Jacobs confirmed Cork’s position as Ireland’s fastest-growing airport for the second consecutive year, attributing the growth to factors beyond the Dublin capacity restriction.

“The Dublin cap isn’t the main driver of Cork’s growth. There’s a need to rebalance aviation across Ireland, focusing on regional airports,” Jacobs said.

He added, “Dublin’s cap is a lingering issue. It’s causing airlines to question Ireland’s aviation strategy, leading them to consider destinations like Gatwick and Manchester.”

Dublin Airport’s Future and Legal Battles

Jacobs anticipates overall passenger growth at Dublin Airport by 1 million in 2023, with a temporary boost from March to November due to legal proceedings lifting the cap during those months.

He expressed hope for growth in Dublin in 2025 but noted the cap remains in place, potentially affecting winter scheduling.

To address the cap, Daa is pursuing legislative action, planning applications, and legal challenges. A legal appeal has been referred to the European Court of Justice, but Jacobs believes this process could take a year.

Jacobs stated, “We need urgent action from the Government to lift the Dublin cap in 2025. This will allow airlines to plan for the coming winter without uncertainty.”

Cork Airport’s Strategic Priorities

Jacobs emphasized Cork’s strategic priorities include expanding its winter schedule to European destinations rather than focusing on transatlantic routes.

He highlighted the importance of securing year-round routes to Berlin, Copenhagen, Madrid, Lisbon, and Warsaw, describing these as priority destinations.

Jacobs addressed the drop of Aer Lingus’s Amsterdam flight by KLM, stating, “Amsterdam hasn’t been removed from Ireland’s map. It’s just a change in which airline is serving the destination.”

Competition and Planning Process

The competition for routes has intensified, particularly from British airports. The Labour government in the UK has invested heavily in capacity expansion at major airports, including Heathrow, City, Luton, Stansted, and Gatwick.

Gatwick has achieved a 16 million passenger capacity increase within 13 to 14 months, contrasting with Ireland’s slower 36-month process for an 8 million passenger expansion.

According to Jacobs, “We need to expedite planning processes in Ireland to remain competitive with UK airports and address the Dublin capacity cap.”

Local Competition Considerations

Waterford Airport has attempted to attract commercial flights, a move Jacobs deemed unlikely given the challenges posed by competition from existing carriers.

He stated, “Ryanair’s skepticism about Waterford’s potential indicates a difficult case for securing viable commercial routes. We have many airports already, and investors are more inclined to support infrastructure that can make a significant difference.”

Jacobs concluded, “While Waterford Airport might work effectively for cargo, general aviation, or training, it’s unlikely to attract the major airlines needed for substantial growth.”

The Path Forward for Irish Aviation

Cork Airport’s ambitious expansion and strategic priorities highlight a future focused on international growth and regional airport development.

As Ireland navigates the challenges posed by the Dublin capacity cap, efforts to reform planning processes and balance regional development hold the key to sustainable aviation growth.

Conclusion

Cork Airport’s expansion plans signify a commitment to becoming Ireland’s premier international hub, accommodating more than 5 million passengers annually by 2027.

As the aviation sector faces significant challenges, including competition from British airports and a Dublin capacity cap, rapid reforms and strategic investments will be crucial to sustaining Ireland’s aviation industry.

Stay tuned for updates on the progress of Cork Airport’s capital projects and the ongoing negotiations to address the Dublin capacity restriction.

We invite your thoughts and comments on these developments. Join the conversation and share your insights on the future of Irish aviation.

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