An organization representing U.S. airlines has voiced strong opposition to the Irish aviation regulator’s decision to impose restrictions on flight slots at Dublin Airport this winter due to a passenger cap, claiming it violates the US-EU Open Skies Agreement. Airlines for America, which includes major carriers such as American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, and JetBlue, has joined the legal action initiated against the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) by airport operator daa, as well as Ryanair and Aer Lingus.
In a statement, Airlines for America expressed its desire for a swift resolution to the matter. “The decision from the IAA to apply a restriction on passenger numbers for operations at Dublin Airport is a violation of the US-EU Open Skies agreement,” the organization said. “The filing made today is part of our ongoing effort to urge all governments involved—the Irish government, the European Commission, and the US government—to urgently resolve this matter before irreparable damage is done not only to US airlines, but also to Dublin Airport and the Irish economy.”
Dublin Airport serves as a vital transatlantic link and economic gateway between the United States and Europe, making the implications of the IAA’s decision particularly significant.
The High Court has granted leave for the parties involved to challenge the IAA’s May 7 decision, which limits the total number of passenger seats available by airlines operating out of Dublin Airport to 14.4 million for the winter season. The daa has warned that adhering to this restriction could lead to a breach of the airport’s annual passenger cap of 32 million, predicting a potential excess of up to 1 million passengers this year.
Ryanair and Aer Lingus have also criticized the IAA’s decision, labeling it legally flawed and detrimental to their winter service offerings. They argue that the imposed restrictions will hinder their operational capabilities during a crucial travel season.
The case is set to be heard in full on December 3, and the involvement of Airlines for America is likely to intensify pressure on the Irish government to lift the passenger cap.
The US-EU Open Skies Agreement, established to enhance transatlantic air travel, allows airlines from both regions to operate freely on various routes, significantly contributing to the economic growth and connectivity between the two territories.
