The Brazilian community in Ireland has been eagerly anticipating a direct flight between Dublin and São Paulo, but it seems those plans have been stalled due to the current passenger cap at Dublin Airport. Kenny Jacobs, CEO of Dublin Airport operator DAA, explained that discussions had taken place with LATAM Airlines about establishing a direct route from Dublin to São Paulo. However, LATAM hesitated to move forward, concerned about the uncertainty caused by the airport’s 32-million passenger cap. The airline considered shifting one of its Heathrow-São Paulo frequencies to Dublin but was unsure if the route would remain viable beyond the initial winter period.
Jacobs revealed that Dublin Airport, with the cap imposed due to traffic concerns on the M50 back in 2006, has been forced to discourage airlines from expanding or adding new routes. This has impacted not only the potential São Paulo connection but also airlines like Breeze, EasyJet, Ethiopian, Jet2, and Royal Jordanian, who have postponed their plans to operate out of Dublin.
Without the restriction, Jacobs estimates the airport could comfortably handle 37 million passengers in 2024. He emphasized that while Dublin has complied with all regulations, the cap is outdated, especially as the airport has improved its transportation infrastructure, with 35% of passengers now arriving by bus.
The delay in lifting the cap is a lost opportunity for both the airport and the Brazilian community in Ireland, who would greatly benefit from the ease of direct travel to São Paulo. Jacobs stressed the need for faster action on planning and infrastructure development to meet growing demand and allow Dublin Airport to reach its full potential.
