By Lynda Myer
In order to constructing a tunnel beneath the crosswind runway, Dublin Airport operator DAA has been granted planning permission.
Although the Ryanair airline argued that this €200m tunnel would add costs for passengers and damage the recovery of Irish aviation, an Bord Pleanála has ratified the underpass.
With almost 24m external width, and around 5.5m internal height from road to tunnel ceiling, the intended tunnel will comprise an enclosed section approximately 0.7km long, as well as an overall alignment of around 1.1km from entry to exit, whereas the underground section is due to be up to 17.5m below existing ground level.
In a statement to T&TI, DAA said: “The new vehicle underpass would be built in the middle of the airfield, underneath the crosswind runway, to connect the Eastern Campus with the West Apron. The tunnel is required to improve access and safety on the airfield, allowing for the segregation of aircraft and vehicles, and the movement of vehicles to the West Apron, which has been restricted since the opening of the North Runway in August 2022.”
For advancing the cargo operations, transit operations, general aviation, stand-by parking and contingency stands, access to the West Apron is critically important.
The twin-cell tunnel is slated to be used by cargo operators, fuel bowsers, tugs, loaders, steps and catering trucks.
DAA also added: “The underpass will be critical to ensure Dublin Airport maintains safety standards and meets future operational requirements. The project will create over 160 jobs during the construction phase.”
