Economy Department assumes operating funding for City of Derry Airport

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced that her department has assumed responsibility for providing annual operating funding of up to £3million for the City of Derry Airport (CoDA) from April 1. 

The funding of up to £3million annually is for the period April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2029.

The Minister said: “This announcement is great news for the North-West and is another example of my commitment to regional balance.  It will enable the airport to plan for future growth in the years ahead.

“The airport serves more than the Derry City and Strabane regions.  It plays a vital part in the economic development of the entire North-West.  

“The funding will enable Derry City and Strabane District Council to use the Council funds it previously provided the airport, towards supporting the North-West’s ongoing competitiveness and ability to trade, attract inward investment and inbound tourism.”

Steve Frazer, Managing Director at City of Derry Airport said: “Today’s announcement is pivotal for the future stability of City of Derry Airport to continue serving as key infrastructure connecting people to and from our North-West gateway. This announcement ensures we are well placed to continue supporting the regions ambitious growth plans and our continued contribution to the region’s economy.  

“We’d like to thank Minister Archibald and her predecessor Conor Murphy for recognising the value of CODA’s contribution, providing connectivity for our residents, visitors, business community and investors across the whole North-West and beyond.

"It is also very important today to recognise the decades of support from Derry City and Strabane District Council which has allowed the airport to continue providing connectivity and contributing to economic growth for all areas across the North-West.” 

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr said: “This long-term financial commitment over four years provides a much-needed bedrock of stability, allowing the Council and City of Derry Airport to strategically plan for sustainable growth and development of the Airport. 

"This four-year funding package very substantially reduces the financial burden from Council and local ratepayers and provides the airport with stability to allow it to fully realise its potential as a key economic driver for the North-West region.

"The City of Derry Airport is a critical infrastructure asset that provides connectivity and is fundamental to business and tourism in the area. I want to acknowledge and welcome the Government’s recognition of the strategic importance of the Airport to the city and region in terms of the significant role it plays in economic connectivity and providing local employment.”