Sod turning event at Waterford Airport is a red letter day for the South East

Minister of State for Planning & Local Government, John Cummins TD has hailed today’s sod turning event at Waterford Airport as a red letter day for Waterford and the wider South-East region.

The Waterford Fine Gael TD was speaking as the sod was turned at Waterford Airport, paving the way for a long-awaited runway extension that will ultimately lead to the return of commercial flights for the first time since 2016.

Speaking at the event, Minister Cummins said: “This is a red letter day for Waterford and the entire South East region as we gather to see this project commenced. It’s been a long time coming but it’s fantastic that this day has arrived and I really want to commend all of the stakeholders that have worked together over the last number of years – in particular the last 12 months – in relation to getting this project on site. This is a really exciting time for Waterford and the entire South Eastregion. I’m really looking forward to it being delivered and the return of commercial connectivity to the region.”

Minister Cummins has also confirmed that Waterford Airport will be eligible for operational funding support under the Regional Airports Programme 2026-2030, once scheduled passenger services resume.

“Although Waterford Airport is not eligible under the 2026 Programme as it does not yet have scheduled passenger services, I will ensure that funding is provided at the earliest possible opportunity and part of Budget deliberations once scheduled passenger services are confirmed. I have always said that I will work with the new airport owner, management and stakeholders to ensure financial support is forthcoming to develop and maintain new route development from Waterford Airport. As a member of Government, I look forward to ensuring the Regional Airports Programme delivers the necessary support to sustain scheduled passenger services at Waterford Airport,” the Minister concluded.