Dublin Airport is preparing for one of its busiest weekends on record, with nearly half a million passengers expected to pass through its terminals over the June bank holiday period.
Airport authorities project that more than 115,000 passengers will travel through the airport each day from Friday, May 30 to Monday, June 2, bringing the total to approximately 480,000 over the four-day stretch. Of those, nearly 250,000 will be outbound travellers, with another 230,000 passengers arriving into the capital.
Friday is set to be the busiest day of the weekend, with airport officials forecasting that almost 124,000 passengers will travel through the facility that day alone.
Graeme McQueen, spokesperson for Dublin Airport, said the numbers reflect the start of a peak summer travel season, with passenger demand at an all-time high.
“This will be the busiest June bank holiday weekend ever at Dublin Airport,” McQueen said. “The coming days, which follow what has been a very busy month of May, are yet further evidence of the huge demand that’s out there to fly in and out of Dublin.”
However, McQueen also noted that the current passenger cap at the airport is limiting further growth. He warned that restrictions on passenger numbers are deterring airlines from introducing new routes and additional capacity.
“Were it not for the passenger cap, the numbers travelling this weekend—and throughout the summer—would be even higher,” he added.
Travellers are being advised to arrive early and plan ahead to avoid delays. Dublin Airport recommends that passengers check in at least two hours before short-haul flights and three hours before long-haul departures.
Security screening guidelines are also being reinforced. Liquids must be limited to 100ml or less and placed in a clear, sealed plastic bag no larger than 20cm x 20cm. Passengers are also reminded to remove hoodies, bulky jumpers, and boots that rise above the ankle before screening.
“By preparing smartly in advance, passengers can avoid needless delays and get their trip off to a smooth start,” McQueen said.
With the airport preparing to operate at near capacity, authorities are urging all travellers to follow advice to ensure a safe and efficient travel experience over the long weekend.
