Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport (DUB/EIDW): Ireland’s Premier Global Gateway and Transatlantic Hub

Dublin Airport (DUB/EIDW) is officially recognized as a 4-Star Airport by Skytrax and firmly established as the busiest airport on the island of Ireland. Located just 10 km north of Dublin city center, the airport plays a crucial role as a major European and Transatlantic gateway.

Recent data shows the airport’s robust growth, with over 20.3 million passengers passing through the terminals in the first half of 2025 alone, and passenger satisfaction scores averaging a strong 8.7/10 for departing travelers. The airport operator, daa, forecasts approximately 36.2 million passengers by the end of 2025, underscoring its pivotal status in global travel.

Terminals and Enhanced Passenger Experience

Dublin Airport operates with two modern, continuously upgraded terminals, Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), designed to handle high passenger volumes efficiently.

• Next-Generation Security: A major enhancement has been the widespread installation of advanced C3 security scanners in both terminals. This technological upgrade eliminates the need for passengers to adhere to the previous 100ml liquid limit and removes the requirement to take electronics out of hand luggage, significantly speeding up security clearance.
• Premium Amenities: Passengers benefit from complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, expansive duty-free shopping areas, and over 45 food and beverage outlets. The main executive lounges, the Liffey Lounge (T2) and the Martello Lounge (T1), have been fully revamped. Furthermore, a full renovation of the 51st and Green lounge in T2 has commenced, and a new Irish bar is currently being fitted out.
• Comfort and Accessibility: The airport has installed over 1,000 new seats, many featuring charging facilities. Dedicated Fast Track options, including the repositioned T1 Fast Track on a new mezzanine floor, ensure expedited passage. The exclusive Platinum VIP private terminal service has also expanded its capacity to cater to high-end business and private travelers.

Global Connectivity and Record-Breaking Route Expansion

As a critical hub for major carriers like Aer Lingus and Ryanair, Dublin Airport offers connections to over 150 destinations worldwide, with a strong emphasis on North America.

New and Enhanced Routes (Winter 2025/2026 & Summer 2026):

The airport has unveiled an ambitious schedule, with notable additions and frequency increases:

• Long-Haul Expansion: Aer Lingus is set to launch its largest-ever transatlantic schedule. This includes a brand-new year-round direct service to Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) beginning in April 2026. Furthermore, a highly anticipated new long-haul route to Cancun, Mexico, will commence in January 2026.
• Transatlantic Strength: The airport offers up to 190 weekly flights to North America. Recently launched routes to Nashville, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis (Summer 2025) will continue through the winter. Capacity is also being increased on established routes like New York (JFK), Boston, and Orlando.
• European & Middle East Growth:
  • New routes include Aer Lingus flights to Turin (Italy) and Tromsø (Norway), the latter being a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing.
  • New airline SkyUp is operating a service to Chișinău, Moldova.
  • Middle East connectivity is surging: Emirates has introduced a third daily flight to Dubai, Qatar Airways has increased its service to Doha (up to 17 times per week), and Etihad Airways is growing frequency to Abu Dhabi, with up to 13 weekly flights planned by March 2026.

Transportation Options and Airport Access

Situated conveniently close to the city, Dublin Airport offers varied and efficient transport links:

• Bus Services: The airport is well-served by public transport. Dublin Bus (Routes 16 and 41) and dedicated commercial operators like Aircoach provide reliable connections to the city center, typically taking around 30 minutes. Ticket costs generally range from 7 to 10 EUR.
• Taxi and Car Rental: A taxi journey to central Dublin takes approximately 20 minutes with an estimated fare of 25 to 30 EUR. Major on-site car rental services include Sixt, Hertz, and Enterprise.
• Parking: Extensive parking facilities are available with a capacity exceeding 20,000 vehicles, accommodating both short-term and long-term needs.

Infrastructure Development and Future Capacity Goals

Dublin Airport operator daa is undertaking a significant €2.9 billion Capital Investment Programme to future-proof the airport.

• Capacity Removal: Following governmental approval, legislation is being drafted to remove the long-standing 32 million annual passenger cap. This move is essential to facilitate the airport’s planned growth toward 40 million passengers annually, ensuring Ireland’s continued connectivity and economic competitiveness.
• Major Projects: Key infrastructure developments include major upgrades to Terminal 1, the construction of a new pier at Terminal 2, expanded U.S. Customs Preclearance facilities, and the new West Apron Vehicle Underpass (€265 million).
• The North Runway: The recently opened North Runway, the first international runway built in Ireland in over three decades, has significantly boosted operational capacity and was recognized with the prestigious Engineering Endeavour of 2022 award.
• Sustainability Commitment: The airport remains dedicated to environmental goals, committing to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

Essential Airport Contact Information