Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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116. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of flights that have been delayed and rescheduled on the Donegal to Dublin and Dublin to Donegal route since January 2024; the reasons for delays and rescheduling of flights on these routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26943/24]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware the current Public Service Obligation (PSO) air service contract in place on the Donegal/Dublin route provides twice daily two-way air services. This Exchequer funded service, facilitating same day return trips from Donegal and further international connectivity from Dublin Airport, marks Government’s commitment to ensuring continued connectivity to this region.

In response to the Deputy's question, in accordance with the performance reports submitted to my Department, the Table below sets out the number of delayed flights under this contract since January 2024.

Delayed Flights by Month on the PSO Air Service Route (Jan – May 2024)

I would like to advise the Deputy that incidents of flight delays due to air traffic control hold-ups and issues with third party handling agents etc. would be considered non-attributable to airlines. So too are delays due to adverse weather conditions, such as ice and wind, which can bring additional safety restrictions to operations.

However, flight delays considered attributable to airlines would be those relating to aircraft technical matters and crewing issues. It was unfortunate that technical difficulties with aircraft on this route resulted in the majority of delayed flights over this five month period. I’ve been advised that this performance issue has largely been due to supply chain issues (availability of spare parts) which is having a significant impact on operators of ATR aircraft worldwide.

That said, I can advise the Deputy that the airline's performance in relation to attributable delayed flights remains well within the 90% on time performance standard set out under contract.

I can assure the Deputy that regional connectivity is of critical importance to this Government and that my Department continues to monitor the airline's performance in accordance with the PSO contract for the provision of these air services.