The Big Jetaway

air passenger numbers will soar to record high over holiday weekend

PASSENGER numbers through Dublin Airport are to soar to record highs this weekend.

The Bank Holiday will see the total rise to 422,000 – up 4% on last summer’s busiest period.

Delays at security are expected, so passengers are urged to ditch that lastminute coffee and head straight for the screening area after check-in.

Communications manager Siobhan O’donnell revealed 2,780 flights were scheduled for the next three days – but added airport capacity had increased.

“The addition of 14 new routes to our route network this year, coupled with extra frequencies on 39 existing ones has contributed to the increase in passenger numbers. Both terminals have a wide variety of restaurants and shops beyond the security screening area.”

And management insist passengers can sail through security if they make sure their carry-on luggage is ready for inspection.

Almost 15 million passengers have passed through Dublin Airport in the first half of this year – 855,000 more passengers than in the same period last year. Before leaving home, travellers should make sure they know which terminal they are headed for. Aer Lingus, Emirates, Norwegian and all the US carriers operate from Terminal 2 while all other airlines operate from Terminal 1.

Saturday is also tipped to be the busiest day of the year at Cork Airport. More than 44,000 will pass through Ireland’s second biggest hub over the weekend. Managing director Niall Mccarthy said: “We are delighted to welcome the significant extra frequencies on many of our summer routes. “This is one of our busiest weekends as passengers from across the south of Ireland embrace the convenience, flexibility and choice that is offered when flying from Cork.” He credits the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East tourist trails with attracting visitors south. Meanwhile, Dublin Bus warned some of its southside services will be disrupted by the 10km Dun Laoghaire-rathdown Bay Road race on Monday