New €30m Waterford Airport runway project takes off as as commercial flights set for return

Waterford Airport. Work is getting underway on extending the runway at Waterford Airport as the sod was turned on a €30m construction project there on Monday.

Work is underway on extending the runway at Waterford Airport as the sod was turned on a €30m construction project there on Monday.

Development work will commence immediately, including a major runway extension and infrastructure upgrades. The new runway will be lengthened to 2,287 metres and widened to 45 metres to accommodate large commercial jet aircraft. The upgrades will enable the return of commercial passenger services, with a target of handling of more than 400,000 passengers annually within three years.

Last October, Waterford City and County Council approved a €30m investment including backing from a US investor, believed to be US oil billionaire Kelcy Warren. The redevelopment envisages the return of commercial passenger services by late 2027 with the airport aiming to cater for up to 400,000 passengers annually by 2032.

Waterford Airport chief executive and investor William Bolster said the airport will bring huge economic benefits for the region. “This sod turning marks a hugely significant milestone for the airport, Co Waterford and the broader South East region. It reflects our commitment, collaboration, and ambition to enhance connectivity and support economic development across the region," said Mr Bolster.

"For decades, people across Waterford, Wexford, Kilkenny, Carlow and South Tipperary have spoken passionately about the need for stronger connectivity and improved regional infrastructure. Now, finally, we are moving from conversation to construction.”

Waterford's aviation history dates back almost half a century. The airport was granted an operational licence in 1981, with international flights granted the following year. In 1985, Ryanair launched its inaugural scheduled flight to London Gatwick from Waterford Airport. Since 2002, the Waterford Airport Search and Rescue Base have responded to emergency taskings countrywide from the airport, in addition to work with the RNLI, HSE, Garda Síochána, Defence Forces, local authorities and other agencies. 

Commercial flights continued and in 2008 the airport reaching over 100,000 passengers that year. However, for the past 10 years, the airport does not offer commercial routes.

Waterford deputy mayor Cllr John Pratt said: “Today’s ceremony signals the beginning of a major new phase in the development of Waterford Airport and its future role in strengthening regional connectivity and supporting economic growth and investment across Waterford and the wider South East region.” 

Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley said the airport is a key piece of infrastructure in the National Planning Framework. "We are looking forward to a fully developed Waterford Airport which will act as a catalyst for growth, not only through passenger services, tourism and enhanced connectivity, but also by supporting offshore wind energy projects along the South East coast, enabling South East Technological University’s expansion in aerospace education and training and opening up new opportunities for business and FDI investment.”