Decision due November 19 on Waterford Airport application for eight new hangars
Why It MattersPrivate funding for hangar capacity alongside a longer runway points to a regional Irish airport positioning for larger commercial jets and a possible return of scheduled passenger flights.
A planning decision is due by Thursday, November 19, on an application by Waterford Airport Limited for eight new hangars at Waterford Airport. The proposal would provide a combined 16,553 square metres of hangar space along with office facilities. It also includes a new aircraft parking apron linking the hangars to the airside area, car parking, set-down areas, security fencing, bicycle parking and two ESB substations. An existing hangar on the site would be demolished to make way for the development. The application was lodged in September, and a Natura Impact Statement has also been submitted.
The hangar plans form part of a wider redevelopment of the airport, in which around €30 million is being invested through private funding. Major works include extending the runway to 2,287 metres and widening it to 45 metres, which is intended to allow larger commercial jet aircraft to operate from Waterford. Construction on the redevelopment was formally launched in May. Waterford City and County Council has previously indicated that the project could allow scheduled passenger flights to return to the airport as early as summer 2027.
