Airport operator daa has welcomed the decision by the Irish government to build a light rail link from Dublin Airport to Dublin city center and Swords.
Paschal Donohoe, the minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, announced today (September 29) that the construction of a 16.5km (10.3mi) light rail line connecting St Stephen’s Green to Swords via Dublin Airport had been approved. There will be a journey time of 19 minutes from O’Connell Street to Dublin Airport. Construction of the new Metro North line is due to begin in 2021 and should be completed by 2026 or 2027.
Kevin Toland, chief executive, daa, said, “We have been highly supportive of the plans for a rail link from Dublin Airport to the city center for many years and we’re pleased that the government has approved the new Metro North option.
“Dublin Airport plays an essential role in the Irish economy, supporting trade and tourism and a Metro link to the city center will significantly improve the transport options for passengers.
“A rail link to the city center is an essential element of Dublin Airport’s long-term growth plans and we welcome the fact that the new Metro service will be underground at the airport as this will allow an efficient transfer of passengers from the Metro to the terminals and vice versa.”