Aer Lingus proposes ‘legislative approach’ to solve Dublin Airport passenger cap

Aer Lingus has proposed to Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien a legislative approach to addressing the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. The airline’s CE Lynne Embleton referenced the proposal in a letter to O’Brien seeking a meeting to discuss the cap and separate night-time restrictions on flights. The issues are expected to be discussed when representatives of Aer Lingus meet O’Brien Wednesday. The Irish Times reported earlier this week that the Government is to consider interventions to lift the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, including potentially passing laws allowing the limit to be increased. The limit of 32m passengers passing through the airport annually is at the centre of a protracted planning saga. It was imposed in 2007 as a planning condition that allowed the airport to open a second terminal. The Government holds the view that the restriction hinders economic growth. O’Brien has received updated advice from Attorney General Rossa Fanning on the matter. The advice references the potential to pass legislation effectively carving the decision out from planning laws.<br/>