Dublin Airport challenge to night-time flights cap adjourned over planning decision

An Bord Pleanála is considering DAA’s request for a relaxation of the restrictions imposed on night-time flights as a condition of 2007 planning approval for the new North Runway

DAA’s proposed “relevant action” would replace the numerical cap with a noise quota between 11.30pm and 6am and would allow for more flight take-offs at Dublin Airport and landings than is seemingly permitted by the planning condition.

A High Court challenge to Fingal County Council’s enforcement notice to restrict night flights at Dublin Airport was adjourned mid-hearing on Wednesday to await the outcome of a planning decision that overlaps with key issues in the case.

The State-owned DAA (Dublin Airport Authority) had concluded its opening arguments and Aer Lingus had begun making submissions on the second day of the hearing when Mr Justice Richard Humphreys queried whether continuing the trial was the best approach.