Cork Airport will not split from Dublin

Cork Airport is to remain under Dublin Airport Authority control for the foreseeable future with discussions on its independence grounded until 2019.

The new national aviation policy acknowledges that the legal framework is in place for the transfer of Cork to an independent authority but says this should only happen if it makes financial sense for Cork and the DAA.

Transport and Tourism Minister Paschal Donohoe said that the review of the airport’s status in 2019 would be repeated every five years thereafter.

“I’m very clear that, at the moment, the best location from a structure point of view to give Cork the platform it needs to grow is as part of the DAA group.”

He said he recognised the heavily-indebted airport’s progress in growing routes and passenger numbers and also the airport’s potential to benefit from new tourism initiatives.

“Cork Airport will find itself in the position of being located between the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East and, from my regular meetings with the board and management of Cork Airport, they are very well aware of the opportunity that creates.

“We want to work to create joined up marketing support to allow them to make the most of that.”

However, the policy document contains no plans for investment in infrastructure at the airport and commits only to reviewing infrastructure and capacity needs in 2018 and at five-year intervals thereafter.

Cork Airport welcomed the policy, saying it provided clarity on the ownership issue and recognised the importance of the airport as the gateway to the South.

“We welcome the Government’s commitment to work with us to exploit all opportunities for growth,” said managing director Niall MacCarthy.

Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy, however, was concerned at the lack of specifics.

“The policy falls short on identifying and committing to specific measures and actions,” he said.

But he welcomed the commitment to review ownership in 2019. “It is imperative that every effort is made by all to ensure Cork Airport is in a position where independence can be fully considered in 2019,” he said.

Shannon Airport will also be subject to a capacity review in 2018 and is not in line for any major new infrastructure before then.