Ireland’s four regional airports have received over €11m in direct Exchequer supports through 2023, with the per passenger subsidy highest for Donegal Airport.

Minister of State Jack Chambers said the operational support for Donegal, Kerry, Ireland West (Knock) and Shannon airports is for air traffic control, fire services and security.

“This level of funding, which is 4.5% higher than last year’s overall operational funding allocation to these airports, supported eligible salary costs in the areas of safety, security and air traffic control in 2023,” the minister said.

The operational funding is in addition to the €16.6m in capital supports announced earlier this year, will see a total of €28m in funding being dispersed to Irish regional airports this year.

Minister Chambers added: “Ireland’s connectivity to the rest of the world is essential for our continued economic development, attracting and sustaining foreign direct investment, facilitating tourism while also keeping us connected with friends and family abroad. 

“With these Exchequer supports, overall passenger traffic at regional airports up to end October this year has shown a 9% increase, when compared to the same period in 2019.”

The Regional Airports Programme also funds projects with a sustainability focus, encouraging airports to reduce emissions and build climate resilience.  Public Service Obligation air services between Donegal and Dublin are also supported under the programme.

The per passenger subsidy for Donegal Airport is €17. When the capital funding for the airport is included, the per passenger subsidy for flights connecting Donegal with Dublin and Glasgow increases to €31 per flight.

Cork Airport is not eligible for operational supports under the programme in 2023 due to the strong rebound in passenger traffic in 2022 (2.24m pax).

However, capital funding of €6m was made available to Cork Airport this year to fund commencement of a significant security screening project in 2024.