A major step forward for regional aviation in Ireland was marked today, Monday 18 May 2026, with the official sod-turning ceremony for the long-awaited development of Waterford Airport. The milestone signals the beginning of a transformative €30 million construction phase that aims to restore and significantly expand commercial air services in the South East.
The ceremony was led by Deputy Mayor of Waterford, Councillor John Pratt, alongside members of Waterford City and County Council. Public representatives, key stakeholders, and members of the regional business community gathered at the airport terminal before proceeding onto Runway 21, where the official sod was turned, marking the transition from planning to construction.
Central to the development is the substantial extension and upgrading of the airport’s runway. The existing infrastructure will be lengthened to 2,287 metres and widened to 45 metres, bringing it in line with the requirements for larger narrow-body commercial jet aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families.
This upgrade is widely viewed as a game-changer for the region, enabling the return of scheduled passenger services for the first time in over a decade. Airport management has set an ambitious target of handling more than 400,000 passengers annually within three years of completion, positioning Waterford as a key regional gateway once again.
In addition to the runway works, broader infrastructure improvements will enhance operational capability and safety, ensuring the airport meets modern commercial aviation standards.
Speaking at the event, Councillor John Pratt highlighted the strategic importance of the project: “Today’s ceremony signals the beginning of a major new phase in the development of Waterford Airport and its future role in strengthening regional connectivity and supporting economic growth and investment across Waterford and the wider South East region.”
The project has long enjoyed strong backing not only locally but also at national level, with Waterford Airport identified as a key infrastructural asset in the National Planning Framework and included in the Programme for Government.
William Bolster, CEO of Waterford Airport, described the sod turning as a “hugely significant milestone” for both the airport and the wider region. He emphasised that this development reflects years of advocacy and collaboration: “For decades, people across Waterford, Wexford, Kilkenny, Carlow and South Tipperary have spoken passionately about the need for stronger connectivity and improved regional infrastructure. Now, finally, we are moving from conversation to construction.”
The enhanced airport is expected to deliver substantial economic benefits, supporting tourism, improving business connectivity, and attracting inward investment. Gerald Hurley, CEO of Waterford Chamber of Commerce, reinforced this view, noting that the fully developed airport will act as a catalyst across multiple sectors:
- Boosting passenger travel and tourism
- Supporting offshore wind energy projects along the South East coast
- Facilitating the expansion of aerospace education and training through South East Technological University
- Creating new opportunities for foreign direct investment
Waterford Airport has played an important role in Irish aviation since it was granted its operational licence in 1981, followed by international status in 1982. Ryanair launched its first-ever scheduled service from the airport to London Gatwick in 1985, marking a historic moment for both the airline and Irish aviation.
Through the 1990s and early 2000s, the airport hosted a range of scheduled services, with summer routes to destinations such as Bordeaux, Faro and Malaga. Passenger numbers peaked at over 100,000 in 2008. While commercial passenger services ceased in subsequent years, the airport has continued to play a critical role through its Search and Rescue (SAR) base, which since 2002 has responded to thousands of emergency callouts nationwide, working alongside agencies including the RNLI, HSE, An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces.
With construction now underway, optimism is high that Waterford Airport will soon reclaim its position as a vital transport hub for the South East. The runway extension represents not just an infrastructure project, but a renewed commitment to regional connectivity and economic development.
