Dublin Airport Cleared to Expand Night Flight Operations
Dublin Airport has received approval from Ireland’s national planning authority, An Coimisiún Pleanála, to increase its nighttime flight capacity and extend the operating hours of its second runway. The decision marks a significant development for the airport’s future growth and operational flexibility, particularly for airlines seeking additional scheduling options during off-peak hours.
Under the new ruling, the number of flights allowed between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. will rise from an average of 65 to 95 per night across the entire airport. The airport’s North Runway, which previously faced tighter restrictions during these hours, can now operate from 6 a.m. until midnight. This expanded timeframe brings the runway’s operational hours closer to global norms and supports greater efficiency across the airport’s infrastructure.
As part of the approval, the airport must implement a new annual noise quota to align with international best practices in noise management. This requirement reflects growing awareness of the environmental and community impact of airport operations, balancing growth with sustainability goals. Airport operator daa has welcomed the planning permission, noting that it “removes uncertainty for Dublin Airport and the airlines” that depend on consistent and predictable access to runway slots, especially during peak and transitional hours.
However, daa also expressed concern about the imposed cap of 35,672 nighttime aircraft movements per year, indicating that while the decision supports progress, operational limitations remain. The cap may affect long-term planning for future demand, especially as Dublin Airport continues to grow as a hub for transatlantic and European travel.
This decision is expected to boost airline confidence and facilitate route expansion, particularly for carriers operating overnight and early morning services. It also enhances Dublin Airport’s position as a key gateway in Western Europe, where competition for air traffic is intensifying amid rising passenger numbers and shifting travel patterns.
With the updated guidelines now in place, airlines and stakeholders can plan with greater clarity, potentially opening the door for more cargo and long-haul services during nighttime hours. The ruling represents a step forward in the airport’s efforts to modernize its operations while maintaining a responsible approach to noise control and community engagement.
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