Dublin Airport's current control tower, which would not have a view of a proposed new runway, hence the IAA's application to build a taller tower

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has applied to An Bord Pleanála under special strategic infrastructure legislation to construct a new 86.9-metre control-tower building next to the existing control centre at Dublin Airport. If approved, it will be the third-highest building in Ireland.

The IAA needs to construct the new tower because the current facility would not have a view of a new runway proposed for the airport.

The IAA, which uses a €115m system to manage air traffic, also wants to construct a support and administration building under the plan. The existing Dublin air-traffic-control centre is on the western side of the airport, close to the Dublin Bus depot.

The IAA recently signed a new 25-year lease for 38,000 square feet of office accommodation at the former headquarters of the Irish Times in Dublin 2. The Times Building is being developed by Cavan-based P Elliott & Co on D'Olier Street.

The organisation is expected to move into the building in April 2010 from its existing office on Burgh
Quay.