Donegal Airport Expresses Disappointment Over Dublin Route Changes

Donegal Airport’s management has voiced strong disappointment following the announcement by the Department of Transport confirming the terms of a new public service obligation (PSO) route contract with Emerald Airlines. Despite requests to delay the decision, the contract linking Donegal with Dublin Airport is moving forward, raising concerns about significant changes that may adversely affect passengers and the local community.

In a formal statement dated February 10, 2026, signed by Chairman Garry Martin, the airport management outlined their objections to the changes. They highlighted the potential negative impact of losing overnight aircraft basing in Donegal and the elimination of a crucial midday flight. These alterations, according to the management, threaten the connectivity and service reliability that passengers have come to expect.

The statement emphasized that the decision to execute the contract came despite the airport’s request for a pause to allow for a thorough legal review. Martin stated, “We are extremely disappointed that our request has not been acceded to by the Department of Transport.” This frustration stems from the airport’s efforts to engage with Department officials throughout the tender process. Since October 2025, officials indicated they could not discuss the tender until the contract was signed.

The management detailed specific concerns about the proposed changes to the route. The absence of overnight aircraft at Donegal Airport, a practice in place for the past 21 years, removes the assurance of timely morning departures for time-sensitive users. Additionally, the removal of the midday flight has sparked confusion and concern, as it served a vital role for business, health, and tourism-related travelers.

Martin pointed out that the proposed schedule, featuring a 06:30 flight arriving from Dublin and an 20:30 departure from Donegal, does not align with customer needs. He explained, “The loss of the midday rotation is inexplicable… the replacement of the afternoon flights neither meets the needs of customers nor do they make any commercial sense.”

The management first learned of the material change in aircraft basing on January 13, 2026, through informal discussions among airline crews. This marked a turning point for the airport, as they had no direct line of communication with Department officials, who had continually declined to engage. In the absence of official dialogue, Donegal Airport management sought to raise their concerns through political channels.

Martin acknowledged the support received from local political figures, notably Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher, who assisted in advocating for the airport’s position. The management has held numerous discussions, including a meeting on February 4, 2026, where they articulated their concerns to the Minister for Transport and the Secretary General of the Department.

Central to the airport’s argument is the assertion that the needs of customers have not been adequately considered. They believe submissions made prior to the tender process were either ignored or misinterpreted during the evaluation. The management expressed that the new contract does not align with the spirit of a PSO route, failing to enhance service for passengers while prioritizing the airline’s profitability.

In conclusion, the management of Donegal Airport is actively pursuing legal advice and aims to finalize their review shortly. Their goal is to ensure that services meet the requirements of customers in Donegal and beyond. Martin expressed gratitude for the community’s support during this challenging time and reiterated the airport’s commitment to advocating for necessary changes. Once legal consultations are complete, the Board will announce their strategy moving forward, aiming to address the concerns of both passengers and the Department of Transport.