Planning Commission Faces Backlash at Dublin Airport Over Night-Flight Limit Decision

Dublin Airport's planning commission has faced criticism from both airlines and residents over a decision to allow 50% more night-time flights in a shorter "night-time" window, alongside a new quota system for noise. Airlines are concerned about limits on flights in the 5am-7am morning window, while residents are dissatisfied with increased pollution and noise. The airport authority is investing millions in noise insulation and home purchases, but both parties are threatening to challenge the decision in court. The reconstituted planning appeals board, An Coimisiún Pleanála, faces blame for the decision.

Dublin Airport has received planning permission to increase its night-time flight operations and extend the hours of use for its second runway. The decision, made by An Coimisiún Pleanála, has sparked criticism from both airlines and residents, who are concerned about the impact on flight schedules and noise pollution.

The number of flights permitted at the airport as a whole has increased from an average of 65 a night to 95 between 11pm and 7am. Previously, flights were not allowed to take off or land on the second runway, known as the north runway, during these hours. However, the airport can now use the runway up to midnight and from 6am [1].

A key aspect of the decision is the implementation of a Noise Quota Scheme. This system will limit the type of aircraft that can operate during night-time hours based on their noise emissions. Aircraft exceeding a particular noise limit will not be able to take off or land at night [1].

An Coimisiún Pleanála has set a cap of 35,672 night-time flights over a 364-day period to protect residential amenity. The commission believes that a quota system alone could permit an increase in night-time flights without adequately considering the cumulative impact on surrounding communities and the environment [1].

Airlines have expressed concern about the restrictions on flights between 5am and 7am, which they argue could disrupt their schedules and affect their operations. Dublin Airport Authority (daa) has welcomed the decision, noting that it will allow for more efficient utilization of the airport's infrastructure. However, daa has also expressed disappointment with the night-time movements cap and noise quota, stating that it will continue to engage with the local community to mitigate the impact of airport operations [1].

Residents and environmental groups have criticized the decision, arguing that it will increase noise pollution and negatively impact the health and quality of life of those living near the airport. They have called for a more comprehensive review of the airport's noise management policies [1].

The decision has also been criticized for its potential impact on the airport's ability to grow and meet future demand. Dublin Airport Authority is seeking permission to increase the annual number of passengers to 40 million, but the current restrictions could hinder these plans [1].

The reconstituted planning appeals board, An Coimisiún Pleanála, faces blame for the decision, which has been seen as a barrier to resolving ongoing debates about the airport's passenger cap and noise management policies [1].

References:
[1] https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2025/0717/1523927-dublin-airport-flights/
[2] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g2xde8w17o