Daa posts jump in turnover amid pent-up demand among ...
The operator of Dublin and Cork airports, the Daa, has reported a strong post-covid recovery as pent-up demand led to holidaymakers splurging on travel plans despite cost pressures.
In an statement on the Daa’s performance during the first six months, it reported that passenger numbers flying in and out of the Republic’s two busiest airports reached 17m, compared to 13m in the same period last year.
“There were significant improvements to the overall passenger experience at Dublin Airport in the first half of the year compared to last year and passenger satisfaction ratings are now back to the standards that we routinely delivered pre-covid,” said Daa chief executive Kenny Jacobs.
The Daa posted turnover of €459m, an increase of 55%, driven by activity at Dublin Airport. The Government officially lifted most of pandemic restrictions at the beginning of 2022, with Dublin Airport crumbling under pressure as eager travellers swarmed to fly abroad.
“Security queue times at Dublin Airport have improved month on month, with 92% of passengers getting through security in less than 20 minutes between January and June this year,” said Mr Jacobs.
Meanwhile, Cork Airport welcomed 1.3m passengers in the first half of the year and is expected to have its busiest year ever for international traffic of 2.7m passengers.
The Daa’s total operating costs, including payroll, came to €253m, representing an increase of 28% on the same period last year, fuelled by the resumption of normal airport operations post-pandemic.
The Daa’s international retail, consultancy, and management business, operated through Aer Rianta International and Daa International also grew, with combined revenue reaching €122m, compared to €81m in 2022.
The rise in revenue in Daa’s 24 international retail stores in 13 countries was driven by the combination of increased passenger volumes and increased passenger spends since last year for Aer Rianta International, while Daa International's business generated revenues of €16m.
Ryanair recently announced that it cut its winter 23/24 schedule at Dublin Airport due to Daa's rising passenger charges of 45%. However, the Daa said it is not increasing charges by that much.
