US Airlines Pressure Ireland to Scrap Dublin Passenger Cap

Airlines for America (A4A) has formally asked the US Transportation Department to challenge Ireland and the European Union over plans to impose an annual passenger limit at Dublin Airport.

A4A warns that the proposed cap would restrict growth and reduce travel options for passengers flying between Europe and the US. The group estimates that enforcing a 32 million passenger ceiling would cut overall airport traffic by roughly 11 percent.

Capacity cap draws sharp criticism

Ryanair, which recently announced cuts to over 4 million seats on European routes, has emerged as one of the most vocal opponents of the policy. The airline accused Irish leaders of failing to act quickly to remove the cap, despite repeated assurances. Ryanair says the restriction artificially suppresses demand at one of Europe’s fastest-growing airports.

CEO Michael O’Leary stated that lifting the cap would immediately open the door for additional routes and flight frequencies from both European and US carriers. He also said these changes could boost employment and tourism demand during the peak summer 2026 season.

Additionally, Irish Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien has acknowledged that the restriction is no longer fit for purpose and limits Dublin’s ability to meet growing travel needs.

Benefits of lifting the cap

The passenger cap is expected to be removed this year, allowing Dublin Airport to fully utilize its capacity. Airlines would gain greater flexibility to expand networks, particularly on long-haul routes from the US, Asia, and the Middle East.

The 32 million passenger cap was introduced in 2007 as a temporary planning condition while Dublin Airport constructed Terminal 2.

Although the terminal has been operational for years, the cap has remained in place, increasingly at odds with rising passenger demand and expanded airport infrastructure.

Photo by Joshua S. on Unsplash