Relief as extension to Donegal to Dublin air service contract confirmed

Minister of State at the Department of Transport James Lawless has announced that Emerald Airlines will continue to operate the government-funded PSO air service between Donegal and Dublin airports for an additional one-year period.

Emerald Airlines was awarded this contract in 2022 following an EU public tendering process conducted by the Department in accordance with the requirements of EU Regulation 1008/2008.

This Regulation, on the common rules for the operation of air services in the Community, allows for the provision of PSO air services to isolated areas – those not adequately served by alternative transport services to administrative, business, education and medical centres.

This contract, providing twice daily two-way air services facilitating same-day return trips from Donegal and further international connectivity from Dublin Airport, marks Government’s commitment to ensuring continued connectivity to the North-West region.

The current contract, which was due to expire on February 25, 2025, has now been extended for an additional one-year period, as allowed for under contract.

"This is welcome news for all concerned," General Election Candidate Pat 'the Cope' Gallagher said. "Donegal Airport has had strong growth in passenger numbers since the pandemic. The airport was used by 38,600 passengers in 2023 and that number has increased to 39,400 already this year.

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"The Minister reassured me that the proposed cap on passenger numbers landing into Dublin will have no impact for Donegal Airport. I am well aware of the concerns that passengers, including the [430] Donegal Cancer patients, have had over the last weeks and I do hope that today's announcement will allay their fears.

"I am pleased that the Minister accepted my invitation to visit the Airport during the summer as it gave him an insight into the importance of Donegal Airport to the region. I have been a supporter and advocate for Donegal Airport all my political life and shall continue that same support if elected to the 34th Dail."

Minister of State Lawless said: “I am delighted to announce today a one-year extension to the PSO air service contract between Donegal and Dublin airports.

“Government recognises the important role this service plays in providing the people and businesses in this remote region with daily air services to Dublin, to attend medical and other important appointments. As well as supporting Government’s commitment to balanced regional development, these services also support growth of the economy and tourism in the region.

“I was encouraged to see the strong growth of this service since Emerald Airlines commenced operations, with passenger traffic peaking last year. I am delighted to witness a further 20% growth in passenger traffic to date this year.

“I am aware of concerns that some, including the Donegal Cancer Flights & Services, have raised about the potential impact of the passenger cap at Dublin Airport on the PSO air service. I wish to assure the people and businesses in this remote region that there will be no impact to passengers using this service under this important contract. I am acutely aware of the importance this PSO service has to the region, including for passengers travelling for medical reasons.”’

Ian Lough, Head of Commercial at Emerald Airlines, said: “We are pleased to announce that our contract serving the Government funded PSO air service between Donegal and Dublin has been extended until the end of February 2026. We remain dedicated to serving the Donegal community and look forward to the continued success of this vital route."