Locals view Dublin Airport as a positive force for the community

A large majority of Fingal residents (82%) continue to view Dublin Airport as a positive force in their community, according to new independent research with 86% agreeing the airport supports economic growth and local jobs.

The Fingal Community Survey Report, titled Views and Perspectives of Fingal Communities Regarding the Operations and Development of Dublin Airport – February 2026, was conducted by RED C Research throughout 2025 and shows strong and growing support for Dublin Airport’s role in the local economy, its place in the community and its future development.

The latest report is the fourth independent research study commissioned by daa.

Key findings

• 86% agree the airport supports economic growth and supports local jobs
• 82% support further development at Dublin Airport
• 77% believe Dublin Airport does more good than harm in the community
• 69% see the airport as a trustworthy neighbour
• 65% of residents have a positive view of Dublin Airport’s impact on their local area
• 63% say it helps improve quality of life locally

The research also highlights communication as the area where expectations are highest, with around half of residents saying they feel the airport is open and transparent.

The report identifies this as a clear opportunity for further engagement and improvement with 28% feeling communication on local issues is unclear. While 1 in 4 residents (25%) don’t notice any aircraft noise, most describe it as a small amount (44%) or a medium amount (19%) with a minority (11%) noticing a large amount.

Dublin Airport Authority Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

Importantly, support for future development remains strong, including among those affected by noise.

Overall sentiment towards Dublin Airport continued to improve throughout 2025, with positive ratings increasing and negative sentiment remaining very low at just 4%.

Gary McLean, Managing Director of Dublin Airport, said: “This research shows that Fingal communities clearly recognise the value Dublin Airport brings in terms of jobs, connectivity and quality of life.

“We’re encouraged by the strong support for future development, including from people who experience noise.

“At the same time, the findings are very clear that we must keep improving how we communicate, listen and respond locally. That’s a responsibility we take seriously and this survey helps guide where we focus our efforts.”