Government expected to provide funding to Waterford Airport

It is expected that capital supports will be provided to Waterford Airport once passenger flights return.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, has this morning announced the publication of a new regional airports programme, providing capital supports to regional airports across the country.

The Regional Airports Programme 2026-2030 will provide almost €45 million in capital investment to regional airports such Shannon, Kerry, Donegal and Ireland West (Knock).

In a statement to the press, The Department of Transport said it is also expected that Waterford Airport will become eligible for supports during the lifetime of the programme when scheduled passenger services return.

Reacting to the funding this morning, Minister John Cummins said, “This is important clarity from the Department of Transport that Waterford airport is expected to become eligible for funding similar to other regional airports once fully operational.” 

Minister Cummins said the funding will be provided at the earliest possible opportunity and a part of Budget deliberations once schedule passenger services are confirmed for the airport.

The funding will provide additional supports towards airport safety, security and sustainability. 

The government has previously shown hesitancy in financially supporting the reopening of the airport, and the Department of Transport stalled on the approval of business cases which were submitted by stakeholders.

Government uncertainty over funding ultimately opened the door to a fully funded private investment from US businessman Kelcy Warren, who pledged €30 million to reopening the airport.