Powerscourt Airfield

The closure was a private decision by the landowners, the Slazenger family, who own the Powerscourt Estate. The primary reason was a strategic change in land use related to the development and operation of the adjacent luxury Powerscourt Hotel (now part of the Autograph Collection). The land occupied by the airfield was repurposed, and the operation of a private airstrip was likely deemed incompatible with the noise, safety, and aesthetic requirements of a high-end hotel and resort.

The site of the former airfield has been fully absorbed into the grounds of the Powerscourt Hotel, Resort & Golf Club. The grass runway is no longer distinguishable and the land is now part of the landscaped estate, blending in with the golf course and open parkland. There are no remaining signs of aviation infrastructure such as hangars, wind socks, or runway markers.

Powerscourt Airfield was a private, unlicensed grass airstrip. Its significance was not national or military, but rather to the general aviation community in Ireland. It was primarily used by the owners of the Powerscourt Estate, their guests, and a small number of private pilots who had permission to land. The airfield was renowned among pilots for its stunningly beautiful and challenging approach, flying over the scenic Wicklow mountains and the grounds of the famous estate. Operations were limited to light, single-engine aircraft such as Cessnas and Pipers. It was a unique and picturesque landing spot rather than a hub for commercial or frequent traffic.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening the airfield. The land has been permanently and successfully repurposed as part of a major, high-value tourism and hospitality asset. Reverting the land to an airfield would be economically unviable and logistically incompatible with the current use of the Powerscourt Estate. The reopening is considered highly improbable.