Irish Air Line Pilots Association (IALPA)

Lobbying Organisation Irish Air Line Pilots Association (IALPA)

Date published 04 Jun, 2026

Relevant Matter Legislation

Public Policy Area Transport

Period 1 May. 2026 to 31 Aug. 2026

Specific Details Concern about the proposed expansion of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to all flights departing Europe

Intended results The Irish Air Line Pilots’ Association (IALPA) wrote to Minister O’Brien about the proposed expansion of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), the relevant matter, which is EU legislation on aviation emissions. The letter argues this policy would increase costs for Irish airlines, reduce competitiveness, and affect jobs and connectivity. It stresses Ireland’s reliance on air travel and calls for a fair, globally coordinated approach.

Name of person primarily responsible for lobbying on this activity Nicola Hughes

Did any Designated Public Official(DPO) or former Designated Public Official(DPO) carry out lobbying activities on your behalf in relation to this return? You must include yourself, and answer Yes, if you are a current DPO or a DPO at any time in the past. (What is a Designated Public Official?) No

Did you manage or direct a grassroots campaign? No

Was this lobbying done on behalf of a client? No

Lobbying activity

The following activities occurred for this specific Subject Matter Area.

Letter (1)

The letter highlights concerns about the EU ETS expansion, the relevant matter, which is EU legislation on aviation emissions. It warns that rising carbon costs could place financial pressure on airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus, leading to higher fares and fewer routes. It also emphasises risks to jobs and Ireland’s economy, and calls for government action to protect aviation and invest in greener technologies.

Designated public officials lobbied

The following DPOs were lobbied during this return period on this specific Subject Matter Area. These DPOs were involved in at least one of the Lobbying Activities listed above, but not necessarily all of them. As returns are specific to a Subject Matter Area the above Lobbying Activities may be associated with multiple returns.

Darragh O'Brien Minister (Department of Transport)