Dublin Airport Cap Removal Moves Closer

Dublin Airport operator daa has welcomed Ireland’s proposed legislation to remove the airport’s controversial 32 million-passenger cap, saying that the measure provides a clear path toward resolving a restriction that has become a major concern for airlines.

The Irish government has approved publication of the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026, legislation that would give Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien the power to amend or revoke the cap following environmental assessments and public consultation.

The move marks the latest step in efforts to resolve a dispute that has increasingly drawn international attention, including intervention from U.S. airlines concerned about the impact of the restriction on transatlantic growth.

“Addressing the passenger cap at Dublin Airport is hugely important for Ireland and we welcome the action being taken,” says Nick Cole, deputy CEO of daa. “The proposed legislation rightly recognizes Dublin Airport’s role in supporting economic growth, connectivity and jobs.”

The 32 million annual passenger limit was imposed in 2007 as a planning condition tied to construction of Terminal 2. Although the cap remains legally in place, Dublin Airport handled about 36.4 million passengers in 2025 after Ireland’s High Court granted stays preventing enforcement action.

Airport operator daa and the Irish government have both argued that the restriction is outdated and no longer reflects the airport’s strategic role in supporting Ireland’s economy, tourism sector and international connectivity.

The proposed legislation would establish a mechanism allowing the minister to amend or remove the cap after consulting with independent planning body An Coimisiun Pleanala, which would conduct any environmental assessments required under European Union law and undertake a public consultation process.

The legislation would run in parallel with the airport’s existing infrastructure application, which is currently being assessed by Fingal County Council. That application seeks permission to increase the passenger cap and develop additional airport infrastructure, including new piers, aircraft stands and an integrated transport hub.

Earlier this year, Airlines for America (A4A), representing carriers including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and JetBlue Airways, filed a complaint with the U.S. Transportation Department alleging that continued enforcement of the cap could violate the U.S.-EU Air Transport Agreement.

The group argued that enforcement could result in airlines losing historic slots at Dublin and potentially constrain transatlantic services. A4A asked Washington to consider retaliatory measures against Irish carriers if Ireland failed to address the issue.

O’Brien says he hopes to secure enactment before the parliamentary summer recess and move quickly to complete the environmental assessments required before an order can be made.