myguideTravel Blog

DAA losses place question mark over Terminal 2

April 28th, 2010

The Dublin Airport Authority (formerly Aer Rianta) which operates Ireland’s 3 international Airports (Cork Airport, Shannon Airport & Dublin Airport) and Aer Rianta International (The DAA’s Duty free division) has reported losses for 2009 following a major slump in passenger numbers across the 3 airports and a 50% drop in profits at the duty free division.

Despite the losses the DAA paid a dividend in 2009 to the Government of almost €20 million.

The Authority has agreed a restructuring plan with staff that will save €38 million a year and reduce headcount by 300, however this year will see the opening of Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport which will undoubtedly add to the cost burden at the DAA.

The second  terminal was planned some years ago when passenger numbers were projected to grow, however the existing terminal currently copes very well with the new passenger number reality. This is a major concern as the added cost is unlikely to be offset by new passeneger numbers.

Checkin Area 14 in the old terminal which was opened in the basement to cope with additional passengers during the T2 construction period is now closed for most of the year placing a major question mark over the need for a new terminal.

Entry Filed under: Airports, Ireland, Ireland travel