Inhabitants of multiple southern suburbs in Dublin were startled by what they believed to be a low-flying airplane over their heads on Saturday afternoon, just before 5. Some suggested that the Aer Lingus passenger plane may have veered off its usual course, indicating trouble. However, it was later revealed that the plane was executing a scheduled flyover for the 2024 College Football Classic that the airline was sponsoring between Georgia Tech and Florida State.
The Aviva Stadium’s surrounding air space had been made temporarily restricted by the Irish Aviation Authority from 3:45pm to 4:15pm. Flight data revealed that the flight, operated by an Airbus A330-300, departed from Dublin Airport and flew southwards across Dublin Bay, turned around the Dalkey area and navigated northwards through Dublin’s southern suburbs before reaching the stadium. It then returned following the same route.
Reactions to the unusual flight varied on social media, ranging from amusement to momentary panic. The plane’s low altitude surprised many, particularly in neighbourhoods such as Ballinteer and Ranelagh.
The exciting game, which was awaited eagerly, started at the Aviva Stadium at 5pm. A swarm of supporters, proudly wearing the gold and white colours of Georgia Tech or the maroon and white of Florida State, filled Dublin, particularly Lansdowne Road, for the annual game.
Padraic O’Kane, director and co-founder of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, anticipates that roughly 25,000 Americans travelled specifically to Dublin for the event and that a crowd of 47,500 will fill the seats at the fully booked event while another four million fans will tune in globally to watch the teams compete.
Mr O’Kane outlined the significant advantages for Ireland of hosting 25,000 enthusiastic spectators, as well as broadcasting to a millions-strong viewership in the United States. He added that American football is swiftly gaining popularity in Ireland, both on the field and on the screen.
The inaugural College Classic game took place back in 1988, pitting Boston College against Army. In 2025, Iowa State is set to duke it out with Kansas State, while Pittsburgh is slated to face Wisconsin two years later. Both these games will unfurl at Aviva.
To manage the surge in traffic around the stadium, a rigorous regulation scheme has been implemented along all entry and exit routes. Fans are guided by a colour-coded system to ensure smooth access and exit from the match.
Garda Supt Timothy Burke from Donnybrook Garda station emphasised the primary focus of everyone’s safety and enjoyment of the event. He highlighted the importance of adhering to the colour-coded entry system, meticulously indicated on the tickets. This system extends beyond the match as well, requiring spectators to leave the stadium via the same route they entered, further contributing to the safety of the area surrounding Aviva Stadium.