Weston Airport, located on the Dublin-Kildare border near Lucan and Leixlip, has received a major €18.9 million capital injection. John Collison, billionaire co-founder of Stripe and self-described “aviation fanatic,” led the investment with a group of partners. This marks an exciting new chapter for the west Dublin airport.
🚀 Weston Airport Infrastructure Upgrades and Expansion Plans
Since acquiring Weston Airport in 2021 from Galway builder Brian Connelly, John Collison and his team have pushed hard to develop the site. The recent €18.9 million boost increased the company’s share premium account from €11 million to €30 million. This funding has allowed them to invest heavily in airport infrastructure.
In 2023, the airport gained planning permission to upgrade its terminal facilities. The goal is to create a more unified and efficient passenger experience. As a result, the value of land, airfields, and terminal buildings increased by nearly €5 million last year.
🚁 Search-and-Rescue Base and Aviation Passion Driving Growth
Weston Airport will also host a new search-and-rescue (SAR) base. The base, including a helicopter hangar, is expected to start operating by July 2025. While the hangar plans are under review by An Bord Pleanála, the development is moving forward.
John Collison’s passion for aviation drives this growth. In 2017, he flew a twin-engine plane from Europe to the US. He still flies regularly. His father, Denis Collison, sits on the board of Weston Aviation Academy Ltd, which operates the airport.
Financial and Local Impact of Weston Airport’s Growth
Although Weston Airport reported a post-tax loss of €3.575 million in the year ending June 2024, much of this was due to non-cash depreciation costs. Meanwhile, staff numbers grew from 28 to 30, and directors’ pay rose to €181,200. These changes reflect the company’s growth and ambition.
This expansion will benefit west Dublin. It will create jobs, improve aviation facilities, and enhance emergency services with the new SAR base. Weston Airport is rapidly becoming a key player in the region’s transport and business scene.
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