Cork Airport named best in Europe for third time

Recognised for excellence in service, sustainability, and innovation, Cork Airport celebrates another milestone in its growth journey
Cork Airport named best in Europe for third time

Last year, Cork Airport saw 10% passenger growth to 3.2 million passengers, forecast to rise this year to 3.4 million passengers. Picture: Denis Scannell

Cork Airport has been named Europe's best airport, under five million passengers, at the Airport Council International (ACI) Europe Best Airport Awards held in Athens on Thursday night.

It is the third time Cork Airport has received the award, having won previously in 2017 and 2019. The award acknowledges its excellence in passenger experience, operational efficiency, route development, sustainability, and innovation.

"This recognition is thoroughly deserved," Olivier Jankovec, ACI Europe director general, said. "The airport team has worked tirelessly to enhance operational efficiency, offer an exceptional passenger experience, and deliver on ambitious environmental and sustainability goals. 

Management and staff of Cork Airport, which has been named Best Airport in Europe (under 5 million passengers) at the 2025 ACI EUROPE Best Airport Awards in Athens. Picture: David Creedon
Management and staff of Cork Airport, which has been named Best Airport in Europe (under 5 million passengers) at the 2025 ACI EUROPE Best Airport Awards in Athens. Picture: David Creedon

"Their success is clearly reflected in increased air connectivity and passenger numbers, highlighting a growing contribution to the regional economy, tourism, and competitiveness."

Last year, Cork Airport saw a 10% increase in passenger numbers, reaching 3.2 million. This is forecast to rise to 3.4 million in 2025.

In May, the airport announced a €200m investment by Dublin Airport Authority to develop new infrastructure. Plans include an extended mezzanine floor, a larger duty-free shop, an expanded executive lounge, additional car park spaces, more boarding gates, new aircraft stands, and a new pier to support growth to five million passengers.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin congratulated Cork Airport. "It is clear that Cork Airport is going from strength to strength every year and this award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of Niall MacCarthy and all his team there."

Niall MacCarthy, Cork Airport’s managing director, said: “This award is a fantastic endorsement of the incredible people who make Cork Airport what it is — from our frontline teams to those behind the scenes, and everyone in between. It’s also a reflection of the strong partnerships we’ve built with all our stakeholders, and the loyalty of our passengers who continue to choose Cork Airport.”

Dublin Airport Authority Chief Executive Kenny Jacobs said the award was well-earned recognition for the brilliant team on the ground.

"This award’s not just for the airport — it’s for Cork, for Munster, and for Ireland. We have big plans for Cork, and this is a great boost," he said.

A collection of the latest business articles and business analysis from Cork.

More in this section

The Business Hub

Newsletter

News and analysis on business, money and jobs from Munster and beyond by our expert team of business writers.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited