FTA Ireland (FTAI), the organisation that represents the businesses supporting Ireland’s supply chain, has reacted with disappointment to the final decision made by An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) on nighttime operations at Dublin Airport.
Niall Cotton, FTAI’s Chief Executive, explains, the final ruling disregards recommendations made by the organisation and its members, and will restrict the logistics industry in its efforts to support economic growth for Irish businesses.
“While we support the introduction of a noise quota at Dublin Airport – as a measure to address noise concerns while allowing for growth and commercial flexibility consistent with international best practice – we remain concerned about the addition of a fixed annual cap of nighttime aircraft movements,” he says.
“We acknowledge that the new cap is set at a substantially higher level than the initial proposal presented, but it only preserves the status quo. This risks limiting future growth in international trade, particularly for cargo operators. Once the cap is reached, growth would depend on the use of larger aircraft, which may not be feasible due to market and operational constraints. The cap will also discourage investment in quieter, low- or zero-quota aircraft, undermining progress toward more sustainable aviation.”
As Mr Cotton continues, there is also uncertainty around whether such a cap on movements is actually needed: “Whether the cap is needed on top of the noise quota to meet the Noise Abatement Objective (NAO) remains speculative,” he continues. “Under EU Regulation 598/2014, restrictions must not be more restrictive than necessary. We stress that policy decisions should be evidence-based, not driven by hypothetical scenarios.”
Currently, cargo flights, though comprising under 15% of nighttime movements, support €1.1 billion in GDP, 15,000 jobs, and €19 billion in trade annually. Much of the cargo moving through Dublin overnight comprises time-sensitive cargoes, including perishable produce, pharmaceuticals & medical devices, critical manufacturing components and high-value goods.
“It is clear that the situation is still not resolved fully,” Cotton concludes. “FTAI and its member businesses, which keep the Irish economy stocked with everything it needs, is keen to continue working closely with government agencies and industry stakeholders to develop a clear, future-oriented vision that supports sustainable growth, innovation, and Ireland’s economic competitiveness.”
The Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTA Ireland) is a prominent membership trade association that supports businesses in the transport and logistics sectors. Its mission is to “inspire, advocate, and endorse safe, efficient, and sustainable transport operations and supply chains.” FTA Ireland provides valuable resources, training and advocacy for members, helping them navigate industry regulations, improve operational efficiency, and adopt sustainable practices. Through its efforts, the association plays a key role in shaping the future of transport and logistics in Ireland.
