Dublin Airport Expands Bus Services to offer 35 Million Bus Seats by 2025
Dublin Airport Terminal 2
Dublin Airport is set to significantly increase its bus service offerings, providing passengers with more transportation options than ever before, following the issuance of new permits for bus operators. This development comes after a successful tender process, positioning the airport as a central hub for bus connectivity across Ireland, with services extending to all 32 counties.
Starting in March 2024, Dublin Airport, already recognized as Ireland's largest bus interchange, will see an increase in daily bus departures. From around 900 buses per day in the previous year, the number is projected to rise to more than 1,000 in 2024, reaching up to 1,200 per day by 2025. This expansion is in response to a commitment from operators to provide a seat for every passenger, aiming to offer over 35 million bus seats by 2025, with plans to further increase capacity based on demand.
Vincent Harrison, the Chief Commercial and Development Officer at daa (Dublin Airport Authority), highlighted the significance of this upgrade. "The introduction of more bus options is fantastic news for travelers through Dublin Airport. With the airport serving as a major bus interchange and the decline in car journeys to the airport since 2019, these enhancements are expected to promote the use of public transport further," Harrison explained. This move aligns with daa's ongoing efforts to improve accessible and appealing transport links to the airport.
The re-tendering process has reinforced Dublin Airport's relationships with key operators including Dublin Express, Aircoach, Citylink, Wexford Bus, Bus Éireann, Expressway, Flightlink, and services supported by the National Transport Authority (NTA). These operators are set to occupy designated bus stops across the airport from March 2024, ensuring widespread accessibility for passengers and staff alike.
Additionally, the Zone 16 Coach Park will continue to accommodate scheduled services from JJ Kavanagh, Dublin Coach, Airport Hopper, John McGinley, and M4 Direct, further broadening the spectrum of transport options available to airport users.
This expansion not only benefits passengers but also supports the 19,900 individuals employed at Dublin Airport, with approximately one-third of both departing passengers and staff currently utilizing bus services to access the airport. The planned improvements are expected to attract even higher usage in the years to come.
In tandem with the bus service enhancements, daa has submitted ambitious proposals for a new Ground Transportation Centre, slated to be located strategically between the airport's two terminals. This facility is designed to enrich the passenger experience with amenities such as toilets, retail outlets, and comfortable waiting areas, potentially near a future metro stop, according to plans submitted to Fingal County Council.
These comprehensive developments at Dublin Airport underscore a commitment to advancing connectivity and convenience for passengers and staff, facilitating a seamless travel experience and supporting sustainable transport solutions.
