Friday, September 22, 2023
Ryanair has canceled 17 routes from Dublin Airport and shifted 19 “eco-friendly” aircraft to other European airports amid a dispute over charges and environmental policies.
The airline cited Dublin Airport’s rising passenger charges, alleged capital expenditure mismanagement, and the absence of a meaningful environmental incentive scheme as reasons for the move.
Ryanair’s chief executive, Eddie Wilson, stated that the reduced flights would result in a roughly 10 percent decrease in passenger numbers compared to the previous year. The airline also accused the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) of past mismanagement, including understaffing security during the summer, wasteful infrastructure projects, and a lack of support for low-cost access and sustainable growth.
Ryanair claimed that the 19 planes moved from Dublin were part of its “gamechanger enviro-friendly” fleet of Boeing 737 8200 aircraft, known for reducing noise by 40 percent and CO2 emissions by 16 percent while accommodating 4 percent more passengers per flight.
However, DAA countered Ryanair’s claims, asserting that regulated charges at the airport, determined by the aviation regulator, were set to rise by only 6 percent in 2024. The airport operator also highlighted the presence of discount schemes aimed at incentivizing eco-friendly airlines.
Kenny Jacobs, the CEO of DAA, expressed surprise and disappointment at Ryanair’s decision, emphasizing that the airline could have operated lower CO2 emission and quieter aircraft at Dublin Airport by taking advantage of the new discount schemes. Jacobs disputed Ryanair’s claim of a 45 percent increase in charges in 2024, stating that it was false.
The dispute between Ryanair and Dublin Airport reflects the challenges faced by airlines and airports in balancing economic concerns, environmental goals, and financial sustainability.
Tags: dublin airport, Ryanair
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
