Irish Aviation Authority Reports Strong Performance and Navigates Industry Challenges

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has published its Annual Report for 2024, marking its first full year of operations following the significant reorganisation of civil aviation regulation in 2023.

• The IAA reported a turnover of €37.4 million in 2024
• Profit after tax was €1.9 million
• 40m passengers passed safely and securely through Irish airports
• Irish aircraft registry has grown to 1,435 aircraft, with over 220 aircraft transactions
• Over 21,500 active flight crew licenses
• 18,000+  active training certificates for drone pilots
• 4,425 air passenger rights complaints handled, €360k in refunds and €1.2m in compensation secured for passengers

The report highlights strong financial results, continued prioritisation of safety, and the Authority’s proactive role in addressing regulatory and industry challenges amid ongoing growth in Ireland’s aviation sector.

The IAA reported a turnover of €37.4 million and a profit after tax of €1.9 million for 2024, reflecting a stable financial position. The IAA maintained oversight of 1,435 registered aircraft, including 516 in the Irish AOC fleet and 612 general aviation aircraft, further cementing Ireland’s status as a global aviation hub.

There are currently over 21,500 active flight crew licenses and more than 18,000 unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operator and active pilot competency certificates issued by the IAA, supporting the sector’s safety and technological advancement.

The report also highlighted the aviation sector’s continued growth, with Ireland’s six international airports collectively handling a record 40 million passengers.

Speaking at the IAA AGM held today, Ms Rose Hynes, Chair of the IAA said, “2024 was a year of growth, resilience and regulatory excellence for the Irish Aviation Authority. As Ireland’s aviation sector continues to expand, the IAA stands ready to meet emerging challenges, support innovation, and uphold the highest standards of safety and consumer protection.

There has been much discussion over the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, and The High Court, in an April 2025 ruling, commended the IAA’s ‘fair and candid approach’ in the proceedings, describing it as an ‘exemplary model’ for public authorities involved in judicial review cases. The IAA has pledged to support all efforts to resolve the cap issue and facilitate the full utilisation of Dublin Airport’s infrastructure.”

Irish Aviation Authority Chief Executive, Declan Fitzpatrick added: “2024 marked a year of further growth for civil aviation in Ireland, with increasing connectivity to Europe and beyond. Airports recorded strong passenger numbers, and activity among Irish aviation employers continues to increase.

Aircraft leasing, production and design organisations, personnel training, aircraft and component overhaul are all indicating a positive growth outlook. The recent ‘first flight’ in Ireland by an all-electric commercial cargo aircraft is indicative of the ongoing innovation within aviation.

A key challenge for the industry is to attract talent and qualified personnel, especially aircraft maintenance engineers. We strongly welcome the Government’s commitment to a major expansion of apprenticeship opportunities for aircraft maintenance engineers in Ireland, with the number of training places set to double from 79 in 2024 to 160 from September 2025. It is a great time for any young person to begin a career in aviation.

I would like to acknowledge the continued dedication and commitment of the IAA staff to delivering an effective aviation regulator for Ireland. Our people and their expertise and dedication continue to be our single greatest asset. Our professionalism and commitment will continue to be at the heart of everything we do”.

For further information, please refer to the full Irish Aviation Authority Annual Report 2024 here