Dublin Airport says fluctuations in parking prices are due to supply and demand

Dublin Airport has blamed rising demand and the closure of a nearby privately owned car park for an increase in parking fees in recent months.

Parking has become increasingly difficult, particularly at peak times such as weekends, and the closure of the 3,500-space Quick Park facility has compounded the problem.

It comes amid reports that passengers have seen parking fees double in some cases.

A spokesman for Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) said the price of parking at Dublin Airport fluctuates depending on a number of factors, notably the time of year and the demand for parking at that time.

The DAA manages 18,500 parking spaces on campus.

“This dynamic pricing model means that sometimes a customer can pay less or more than before, allowing us to effectively manage demand for parking and ensure anyone who needs to park at Dublin Airport can do so,” said Kevin Cullinane, Communications Group Leader DAA.

“With Dublin Airport picking up significantly busier again, some passengers will pay more for parking in the coming weeks and months than they have over the past two years when the airport was much quieter with just 5 per cent of the traffic and demand in 2019 parking has been heavily discounted, leading to more discounted offers online.

“For the best available parking rates, we encourage passengers to book online in advance to take advantage of significant savings compared to our gate rates and best available deals. We also encourage passengers to travel to Dublin Airport where possible using the many available public transport options,” he added.

In the run-up to Easter week, Dublin Airport took to social media to warn travelers of a heavy demand for parking, advising people to book in advance.

The airport has become increasingly busy since the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.

Meanwhile, An Bord Pleanala has been appealed against Dublin Airport’s controversial plans to install a toll system for a new chargeable drop-off and pick-up zone after Fingal County Council gave its approval.

Fingal Independent Councilor Joe Newman brought a lawsuit against the controversial proposal.

Cllr Newman’s appeal to An Bord Pleanála included input from Fine Gael Senator Emer Currie. In her filing opposing the proposed toll scheme, Ms Currie has claimed that “Dublin Airport Authority has reduced an Irish tradition of gathering family and friends at the airport or welcoming families home at Christmas to a money grab.” .