Kerry Airport is gearing up for another year of growth in 2026, with passenger numbers in 2025 expected to exceed 430,000 for the first time. The last time passenger numbers were close to this figure was in 2008, when the airport handled 426,115 passengers. For 2026, Ryanair will launch its spring/summer schedule later this month, which is expected to see increased frequencies to sun destinations in Spain and Portugal.
The Chief Financial Officer at Kerry Airport, Basil Sheerin, said: “Growth in recent years has been driven by the professionalism of our staff, by strong performances across fuel sales, retail, and car parking, and by the flourishing of our corporate aviation services where Kerry Airport is earning a truly international reputation for quality and discretion. It will not be until 2026 when we can see the full benefits of the magnificent developments at the Airport – the new Arrivals Hall and the extended Departures Area.
“The main challenges in 2026 will continue to be attracting new airlines and routes. A lack of aircraft availability still a problem for airlines and the expansion of fleets is considerably behind forecasts. Administrative expenses remain a challenge, with increased costs in wages, local authority rates, energy, and maintenance exerting pressure on our gross profit margin. We continue to monitor these areas rigorously to ensure optimal value for money.
“The new developments that will provide larger passenger facilities at Kerry Airport are welcomed and will be a strong driver in our conversations with airlines with our capacity to handle additional routes. We will be confident that the more comfortable surroundings will encourage increased passenger spend in our Gift Shop, Catering facilities and Duty Free.”
Kerry Airport today contributes more than €18 million annually to the local economy and supports over 135 direct jobs, not to mention the countless others in tourism, transport, and service industries that depend upon its success. Over the coming months to the end of March 2026, Kerry Airport will handle 59 flights per week from Dublin, London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester and Frankfurt Hahn.
