Aviation chiefs behind the planned second terminal at Dublin Airport have to learn from mistakes of the M50 fiasco, it was claimed today.
The future of the Irish aviation industry relies on constructing a larger than planned second terminal in the capital, according to Fine Gael transport spokeswoman Olivia Mitchell.
"The fiasco of the M50, which was already too small when finally completed, should serve as a clear warning that infrastructural projects must take future growth into account," she said.
"The two chief domestic airlines are now suggesting that they cannot be accommodated within the original plans for a 50,000 square metre terminal. "It is absolutely essential that the size of the proposed second terminal at Dublin Airport is increased to at least 75,000 square metres."
It is hoped the second terminal will be operational by 2009 and cater for up to 15 million passengers a year.
Ms Mitchell admitted questioning the suitability of the chosen site for the expansion, highlighting that the additional capacity must cater for additional aircraft gates as well as passenger terminal space.
"Since the site was chosen for the second terminal, Aer Lingus chief executive Dermot Mannion has indicated his intention to reinvigorate its cargo business," she continued.
"It is not clear if the original terminal configuration would provide sufficient parking stands for cargo aircraft and landside facilities. "Those facilities and the space for cargo business will now be put under even greater pressure by an expanded terminal."
Ms Mitchell admitted the redesigning and relocating the second terminal could cause some delays, but warned it is more vital to get the investment right.