Cork Airport has once again claimed top honours on the European stage, being named Best Airport in Europe (under 5 million passengers) at the prestigious Airports Council International (ACI) EUROPE Best Airport Awards 2025. This marks the third time the airport has received the accolade, having previously won in 2017 and 2019.
The award celebrates outstanding achievements in passenger experience, operational performance, sustainability, innovation, and route development. Cork Airport, Ireland’s fastest-growing air hub, has consistently demonstrated excellence across these domains.
Record Passenger Growth and Expanded Connectivity
In 2024, Cork Airport welcomed 3.2 million passengers, a 10% increase from 2023. The airport is expected to surpass 3.4 million passengers in 2025, continuing its upward trajectory. This robust growth has been supported by the launch of four new routes to Corfu, Izmir, Bilbao, and Bordeaux, further enhancing Cork’s connectivity to continental Europe.
Additionally, the airport welcomed a new airline partner, SunExpress, bolstering its carrier portfolio and route diversity. Cork’s expanding route network is not only a win for travellers in the south of Ireland but also plays a vital role in regional economic development and tourism.
Sustainability Leadership Recognised Nationally
Cork Airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship has also received national recognition. The airport was named Best Performing Commercial Semi-State Body for energy reduction for two consecutive years by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). This reinforces Cork Airport’s leading role in the transition towards greener aviation infrastructure in Ireland.
Sustainable operations have been central to Cork Airport’s strategy, aligning with broader national efforts to reduce emissions and promote energy efficiency across public and semi-state bodies.
Major Investment Secures Future Growth
In May 2025, Taoiseach Micheál Martin unveiled a major €200 million investment plan by daa (Dublin Airport Authority), aimed at expanding Cork Airport’s infrastructure to accommodate projected passenger growth. The development includes:
- A new mezzanine level to expand the security screening area
- A larger duty-free retail zone
- An upgraded executive lounge
- Additional boarding gates and aircraft stands
- New car park spaces
- A new pier, enhancing overall airport capacity
This ambitious upgrade will future-proof the airport to handle over five million passengers annually in the years ahead.
Speaking on the award, the Taoiseach congratulated the airport, saying:
“It is clear the Airport is going from strength to strength and this award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of Niall MacCarthy and all his team there.”
Tribute to Airport Staff and Regional Pride
Cork Airport’s Managing Director, Niall MacCarthy, praised his team:
“This award is a fantastic endorsement of the incredible people who make Cork Airport what it is — from our frontline teams to those behind-the-scenes, and everyone in between.”
Kenny Jacobs, CEO of daa, echoed these sentiments:
“This award’s not just for the airport — it’s for Cork, for Munster, and for Ireland. We have big plans for Cork.”
Cork Airport continues to be a shining example of how regional airports can thrive through innovation, strategic investment, and unwavering focus on passenger satisfaction.
