Ryanair has formally requested additional flight slots from the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) to accommodate Leinster Rugby’s European Rugby Champions Cup (ERCC) and United Rugby Championship (URC) fixtures.
It comes as a move that could significantly impact the fortunes of both Leinster Rugby and the Irish aviation industry, in a test of policy.
The airline’s application seeks to charter flights to Bristol, La Rochelle, and Cardiff during the December 2024 and January-February 2025 period. This move has been met with potential resistance due to existing restrictions on Dublin Airport’s capacity.
The Challenge of Dublin Airport’s Capacity
Dublin Airport’s 2007 traffic cap, a measure implemented to manage growth and infrastructure limitations, has been a recurring point of contention in recent years.
The IAA has already indicated that it will not grant additional slots for Christmas extras or Rugby International extras this year.
In doing so, it has cited the passenger cap as the primary reason for the decision. Ryanair, however, argues that the cap is outdated and no longer reflective of the airport’s current capabilities.
Ryanair’s Appeal to the Minister
Frustrated by the IAA’s stance, Ryanair has turned to Transport Minister Eamon Ryan for intervention.
“Sadly, we have not yet secured slots from the IAA for these extra Dublin flights to Bristol, La Rochelle and Cardiff. This is because of the outdated (2007) 32m passenger cap at Dublin Airport,” said CEO Michael O’Leary.
“Transport Minister Ryan, whose Constituency is in Dublin Bay South (the home of Leinster Rugby), has failed to take any action to scrap this outdated and irrelevant traffic cap.”
The airline has called on the Minister to issue a ministerial direction under Section 10 of the Aviation Regulation Act, 2001.
This would potentially authorize all additional slot requests for Leinster Rugby charters, Christmas extras, and other special events. Ryanair has now provided the Minister with a draft direction letter, urging him to take immediate action to address the issue.
The Consequences of Inaction
If the IAA rejects Ryanair’s application and the Minister fails to intervene, Leinster Rugby could face significant logistical challenges in fulfilling their European fixtures, states the airline.
The team may be forced to travel by boat or depart from alternative airports, such as Belfast or Cork. This could have negative implications for supporters and the team’s performance.
A Test of Irish Aviation Policy
Ryanair’s plea for additional slots presents a crucial test for Irish aviation policy. It highlights the tension between the need to accommodate growing demand and the limitations of existing infrastructure.
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the future of Dublin Airport. It also bear further implications for the Irish aviation industry as a whole.
Conclusion
As the deadline for the IAA’s decision approaches, with pressure is mounting on both the regulator and the government to find a solution. This outcome should hopefully balance the interests of airlines, passengers, and the environment. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Irish aviation for years to come.
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