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Apache Airflow MCP Server

airflow_trigger_dag

Destructive

Trigger an Apache Airflow DAG run using the DAG ID or UI URL, with optional configuration including custom run ID, logical date, and run notes.

Instructions

Trigger a DAG run with optional configuration.

Parameters

  • instance: Instance key (optional; mutually exclusive with ui_url)

  • ui_url: Airflow UI URL to resolve instance (optional; takes precedence)

  • dag_id: DAG identifier (required if ui_url not provided)

  • dag_run_id: Custom run id (optional)

  • logical_date: Optional ISO8601 logical date/time assigned to the new run

  • conf: Configuration object as dict or JSON string (optional)

  • note: Run note/comment (optional)

Returns

  • Response dict: { "dag_run_id": str, "ui_url": str }

  • Raises: ToolError with compact JSON payload (code, message, request_id, optional context)

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
confNo
noteNo
dag_idNo
ui_urlNo
instanceNo
dag_run_idNo
logical_dateNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Annotations already indicate destructiveHint=true. The description adds the return format and error handling details. However, it does not disclose potential side effects (e.g., creating a run even if another is active) or authorization needs beyond what annotations imply.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is well-structured with a lead sentence, a parameter list, and return/error details. It is slightly lengthy but each section adds value. Front-loading the main action is effective.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's complexity (7 parameters, mutual exclusivity, output schema exists), the description covers the essential information: how to specify the DAG and instance, what configuration and notes can be provided, and the expected returns and errors. No major gaps.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 0%, so the description must fully explain parameters. It provides clear descriptions for all 7 parameters, including mutual exclusivity between 'instance' and 'ui_url', the meaning of 'conf' as a dict or JSON string, and the optional nature of most fields. This adds significant value over the schema alone.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the action ('Trigger a DAG run') and the resource ('DAG run with optional configuration'). Among sibling tools like 'airflow_get_dag_run', 'airflow_list_dags', etc., this uniquely describes a mutation that initiates a run, making the purpose distinct.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description implies usage for starting a new DAG run, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'airflow_get_dag_run' (for retrieving an existing run) or other lifecycle tools. No exclusion criteria or prerequisites are mentioned.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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