Air Navigation and Transport (Amendment) Bill 2026

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The Air Navigation and Transport (Amendment) Bill 2026 would tighten rules on foreign state aircraft using Irish airspace. It says such aircraft can only fly over or land in the State if the Minister expressly invites or allows it, and any permission must be tied to respect for human rights, equality, fairness, dignity and respect on board. It also gives officials and Gardaí new powers to inspect aircraft, stop flights if needed, and punish obstruction or false statements, with a requirement for the Minister to report annually on inspections. The bill also removes an older 1952 order covering foreign military aircraft, and it is meant to align Irish law more closely with international civil aviation rules.

Formal long title

BIll entitled an Act to amend the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1946 for the purpose of giving further effect to the Convention on International Civil Aviation opened for signature at Chicago on 7 December 1946; and to provide for related matters.

Last updated 19 June 2026