By Sean Moriarty 

As Dublin Airport grapples with a passenger cap that threatens to disrupt travel plans and harm the economy, the underutilised Kerry Airport emerges as a potential solution.

Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary met with government officials this week to discuss the issue. It is time to explore the viability of scheduling some flights to the southwestern hub.

While Dublin Airport has reached its capacity limit of 32 million passengers per year, Kerry Airport remains significantly below its potential.

With ample runway space and modern facilities, it could accommodate a portion of the overflow from Dublin, easing congestion and ensuring smoother operations for both airports.

Adding flights to Kerry Airport would not only alleviate pressure on Dublin but also provide a much-needed boost to the local economy.

Increased passenger traffic could lead to job creation in the aviation sector, hospitality industry, and other related businesses.

Additionally, it would enhance Kerry's connectivity, making it a more attractive destination for tourists and business travellers.

Of course, there are challenges to be addressed. Infrastructure improvements may be necessary to accommodate the increased passenger flow, and coordination with airlines and other stakeholders will be crucial.

However, the potential benefits of utilising Kerry Airport more effectively outweigh the obstacles.

The government's decision to expedite the planning process for Dublin Airport's night flights is a step in the wrong direction.

Kerry Airport offers a viable option to alleviate the capacity issue at Dublin while also supporting regional development.