The vast majority of companies in the capital want to see the removal of Dublin Airport’s Passenger Cap.
Dublin Chamber’s latest business survey shows that most firms believe that the removal of the cap is essential for their business.
A 32 million passenger limit was imposed by An Bord Pleanála when it approved Terminal Two in 2007.
However, the Dublin Airport Authority, which operates the airport, had forecast the airport would handle slightly over 33 million passengers in 2024.
Aer Lingus, Ryanair and a group of American airlines have taken High Court challenges to the bid by the industry regulator, the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), to reduce flights next summer to bring it into line with the cap.
The DAA has a separate case pending against Fingal County Council, in which it is seeking to raise the annual cap from 32 million to 40 million passengers.
According to the Q4 Business Outlook report, 84% of companies in Dublin support lifting the cap.
“International air access is essential for most firms – not just those in the tourism sector,” said Stephen Browne, Head of Public Affairs.
“They need it to stay close to their customers, their investors and their suppliers.”
“Improving air connectivity must be at the heart of the next government’s agenda,” Browne added.
“As Ireland’s primary gateway to the world, Dublin Airport must be equipped to meet growing demand and sustain the wider Irish economy.
“Dublin Chamber urges the next government to prioritise finding a means to lift the 32-million passenger cap at Dublin Airport without delay.”
The Chamber’s quarterly report also revealed notable findings on emerging markets for Dublin businesses.
Europe is the most significant market for Dublin businesses, with over two thirds (68%) citing it as a key destination.
Great Britain also emerged as a substantial market, with nearly three-in-five firms (58%) selecting it as major destination.
The third most popular market is North America, selected by approximately two-in-five businesses (41%).
Notably, over one quarter of respondents (26%) operate within domestic boundaries.
Asia and the Middle East region hold similar significance, each attracting 13% of respondents.
While they are not as prominent, they present niche opportunities for Dublin businesses.
South America emerges as a minor market, with one-in-twenty businesses (5%) targeting this region. Africa is the least cited, with 4% of respondents recognising it as a key destination.
When examining emerging markets, Europe stands out as the largest for nearly two-in-five businesses (38%).
North America is considered to be an emerging market for approximately one-in-five businesses (18%), while Great Britain follows closely behind, selected by 15% of firms.
Asia and the Middle East were each selected by 11% of respondents, while Africa and South America were cited the least by 4% and 3% of businesses, respectively.
Pic: Getty Images
