Ryanair has suggested that Dublin Airport operator DAA should utilize its surrounding land for temporary car parking during the summer season to address the ongoing shortage of parking spaces. The airline noted that DAA owns a significant amount of land near the airport, some of which could be quickly converted into a temporary parking facility. Ryanair believes that this would alleviate the pressure on parking and keep costs lower for customers.
In recent weeks, DAA has warned of a lack of parking spaces due to high demand and limited supply, particularly during peak times. The airport has advised passengers to consider using public transportation or other alternatives to reach the airport.
DAA is currently awaiting a decision from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission regarding its potential acquisition of the former QuickPark facility near the airport. The facility, which offers over 6,000 parking spaces, has been closed since the pandemic began.
DAA responded to Ryanair’s suggestion by rejecting the notion that it can simply open up fields for additional car park spaces. The airport operator emphasized that car parking requires infrastructure and planning permission. DAA stated that it operates as the fifth largest transatlantic hub airport in Europe, not a county fair.
While awaiting the decision on the QuickPark facility, Ryanair called on Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan to instruct DAA to open its owned land for temporary parking during peak times. The airline also urged DAA to withdraw its bid for QuickPark to encourage competition in car parking availability at Dublin Airport.
Ryanair further disputed DAA’s argument that a passenger price increase is necessary to address staffing shortages in security operations. Instead, the airline claimed that the extra revenue is needed by the airport operator to fund a new tunnel under the taxiway to the west apron.
DAA responded by stating that its plan to construct a vehicle underpass in the middle of the airfield is essential to enhance access and safety. The underpass would facilitate the segregation of aircraft and vehicles and the movement of vehicles to the west apron, which is currently restricted due to the opening of the new north runway.
DAA emphasized its focus on ensuring a positive passenger experience during the busy summer months. The airport operator highlighted its stable operation and the fact that over 90% of passengers pass through security in less than 20 minutes.
Eddie Wilson, CEO of Ryanair, strongly criticized Dublin Airport’s operators regarding the availability of parking this summer. He accused DAA of always finding excuses, citing insufficient security staff as last year’s problem and a lack of foresight in addressing car parking this year. Wilson stated that Ryanair proposed a straightforward solution for DAA to explore instead of making excuses, emphasizing that it is DAA’s responsibility to manage the airport and ensure sufficient parking capacity. He added that the security queues experienced last year have been largely resolved, but the current issue is with car parking.
