Volunteers put new terminal to the test

The new €600m terminal at Dublin airport was taken for a test flight today as volunteers helped check out the facilities.

The trial at T2 came ahead of the official opening next month.

Around 2,000 people signed up to take part in the day long simulation.

They checked in, went through security and even boarded planes, but there were no take-offs this time round.

When T2 opens it will house Aer Lingus, Etihad and four US airlines.

The airport authority explained the need for the tests.

“The trials are designed to simulate typical airport operational scenarios and are central to Dublin Airport Authority’s plans to commence operations in Terminal 2, safely and effectively,” said a statement.

The three-year project to build the terminal and the nearby Pier E for aircraft was completed in May.