Why is the McEvaddy firm challenging daa's Eastlands Cargo Village at Dublin Airport?

Desmond and Ulick McEvaddy’s firm, DA Terminal 3, has lodged a formal objection. The target is the proposed Eastlands Cargo Village at Dublin Airport. This objection is directed against the plans submitted by the airport operator, daa. The move marks an escalation in the long-running land dispute between the two entities.

Background to the Dispute

The McEvaddy brothers own a significant land bank. This plot is strategically located between the airport’s two main runways. The McEvaddy firm DA Terminal 3 has long sought to develop this land. Their vision includes a potential third passenger terminal (T3).

In January 2026, the firm’s own application for commercial aviation cargo operations was rejected. Fingal County Council refused the plans for four cargo handling units. A key reason for refusal was that the development could prejudice the future T3 development.

The Eastlands Cargo Village Objection

The current daa cargo village objection is now before the planning authorities. The daa, as the daa airport operator, submitted the Eastlands plans before Christmas. The objection reportedly centers on the same core issue. It questions the strategic use of land for the Dublin Airport Eastlands Cargo Village. This ongoing conflict highlights the complex challenges of Dublin Airport development plans.

Impact on Air Freight Capacity

The outcome of this planning objection Dublin Airport is critical. It will significantly affect Ireland's logistics and supply chain. Dublin Airport is the nation’s primary air cargo gateway. It handles the vast majority of Ireland air freight capacity.

• Data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) shows its dominance.
• Dublin Airport handles over 90% of Ireland's total air cargo volume.
• Air freight services support an estimated €1.1 billion in Irish GDP.

Industry stakeholders stress the urgent need for new cargo facilities. They require modern infrastructure to meet growing demand. The continued airport infrastructure disputes create uncertainty. This threatens the efficiency of international trade operations. A swift and clear resolution is necessary. It will ensure Ireland maintains its competitive edge in global logistics.

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