04 Mar 2026 – AVEA Calls for Immediate Clarity on Passenger Cap at Dublin Airport
AVEA, the representative body for some 140 visitor attractions across the island of Ireland, has written to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport calling for the immediate lifting of the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, warning that uncertainty is now a direct risk to Ireland’s tourism growth ambitions.
Collectively, AVEA’s members welcome 25 million visitors annually and support 6,500 jobs. As an island nation, CEO Catherine Flanagan emphasised that “Connectivity is the oxygen of our business. Without certainty on airport capacity, we cannot deliver on Ireland’s tourism potential.”
The recently published Tourism Statement of Strategy sets a target of €3 billion in additional overseas tourism revenue by 2031, with 94% of visitors arriving by air. Dublin Airport recorded a record 36.43 million passengers in 2025, despite the limitations of last winter’s cap. “When airlines cannot plan routes with confidence, the entire sector—from major attractions to the smallest regional experiences—feels the impact,” Flanagan said.
While acknowledging strong performance at Shannon, Cork, and Belfast airports, AVEA notes in its submission to the Committee that Dublin remains the primary gateway to the island of Ireland, and a critical hub for onward regional distribution. The association also welcomes Dublin Airport’s progress on carbon mitigation initiatives.
Flanagan concluded: “Airlines, tour operators and conference organisers are planning as far ahead as 2029. Ireland cannot afford ambiguity. The Government must provide swift, clear confirmation that the passenger cap will be permanently lifted. Tourism jobs, regional economies, and Ireland’s global competitiveness depend on it.”
