Irish cabinet approves to scrap passengers cap at Dublin airport

Current passengers’ number already over the cap

The issue has gained urgency as passenger demand continues to exceed the current limit. Dublin Airport handled approximately 36.4 million passengers in 2025, setting a new traffic record and underscoring the gap between operational reality and existing planning rules. Industry stakeholders argue that maintaining the cap creates uncertainty for airlines and risks limiting Ireland’s connectivity at a time of strong travel demand.

Irish business group Ibec has welcomed the publication of the legislation and called for it to be passed by the summer. The group describes the cap as an outdated planning restriction that could damage Ireland’s international reputation if left in place. It emphasizes that as an island nation heavily dependent on air access, Ireland needs airport infrastructure capable of supporting economic growth, trade, and tourism without artificial limits on passenger numbers.

The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) has also backed the proposal, arguing that removing the cap would create opportunities for airlines to expand services and introduce new routes to Ireland. Ireland Tourism minister Peter Burke echoed that view, stating that lifting the passenger cap is an important pillar of Ireland’s tourism strategy

However, the move has also drawn criticism from environmental and advocacy groups. Children’s Rights Over Flights said it was “outraged” by the decision to move forward with legislation, arguing that removing the cap could lead to higher aviation emissions at a time when Ireland is struggling to meet climate targets. The group claims the passenger limit acts as a safeguard against unchecked aviation growth until stronger environmental policies are implemented.

Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien defended the proposed reforms, describing Dublin Airport as a critical national asset for employment, foreign direct investment, and international connectivity. He said a key piece of national infrastructure should not remain constrained by what he characterized as a planning limitation imposed nearly two decades ago, while also acknowledging the importance of balancing growth with the needs of local communities.

Another critical voice was the one from… Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary ! He renewed calls for the Irish government to scrap the passenger cap at Dublin Airport before St. Patrick’s Day on March 17. He argued that further delays risk undermining airline investment, tourism growth, and Ireland’s international competitiveness. O’Leary says the pace of progress remains too slow, noting that the promise to eliminate the cap was first made nearly two years ago.

Ryanair CEO said scrapping the cap before St. Patrick’s Day would send a clear signal that Ireland is open for growth, enabling airlines to increase capacity, create jobs, and strengthen the country’s position as a major aviation hub.