Aviation Industry

Wednesday, 25 February 2026

Questions (66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71)

Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

66. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport in light of the Irish Aviation Authority’s press statement of 11 February, which confirmed that the temporary UAS Geographical Zone (UGZ T2) in Cork was established following discussions between AirNav Ireland and a BVLOS operator, the consultation which took place with other airspace users and industry stakeholders prior to the establishment of this zone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15466/26]

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Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

67. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport with respect to the temporary UAS Geographical Zone (UGZ T2) in Cork, given that the consultation on UGZ T2 opened simultaneously with the zone taking effect, will he explain how this satisfies the requirement for meaningful stakeholder engagement prior to restricting previously permitted UAS operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15467/26]

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Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

68. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport whether the Irish Aviation Authority engaged with representative industry bodies, including an organisation (details supplied), prior to announcing UGZ T2; and if not, the rationale for proceeding without such engagement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15468/26]

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Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

69. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport when establishing the temporary UAS Geographical Zone (UGZ T2) in Cork, the consultation took place with Cork City Council and other relevant local authorities and the way in which this process aligns with Actions 3, 6 and 7 of the National Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (August 2025), which envisage local authority involvement in UAS Geographical Zone determination and planning alignment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15469/26]

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Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

70. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport whether the decision to introduce the recent Geozone in Cork was preceded by consultation and stakeholder engagement consistent with the commitments outlined in the National Policy Framework on Unmanned Aircraft Systems; whether a report or statement of reasons was published following that consultation; and whether he is satisfied that the decision-making process complied with principles of fair procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15470/26]

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Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

71. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport whether he will confirm, in establishing the temporary UAS Geographical Zone (UGZ T2) in Cork whether the safety case and supporting risk assessment were shared with stakeholders before the announcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15471/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Transport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 66, 67, 68, 69, 70 and 71 together.

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), the civil aviation regulator, is responsible for the regulation of Irish airspace and ensuring it is used safely and efficiently. To achieve this, the IAA certifies Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), who manage specific areas of airspace designated to them for the provision of services such as Air Traffic Control (ATC). Any aircraft operating in the control zone is subject to entry conditions. AirNav Ireland manages access to Cork ATC control zone.

The IAA and AirNav Ireland are independent State bodies that are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards and balancing the needs of all airspace users.

I have asked the IAA to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the matters he has raised.

Question No. 67 answered with Question No. 66.

Question No. 68 answered with Question No. 66.

Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 66.

Question No. 70 answered with Question No. 66.

Question No. 71 answered with Question No. 66.