Belfast City Airport Unveils Blueprint for Terminal Growth
Belfast City Airport has launched a public consultation for its Master Plan 2040, a comprehensive blueprint that outlines potential private investments of up to £200 million to expand and modernise the airport. The draft plan, which can be viewed and responded to at belfastcityairport.com/vision, aims to boost economic growth in Northern Ireland, accommodate more passengers, and prioritise sustainability.
The proposed investments, from various private sources yet to be identified, will be used to expand terminal and airfield facilities, improve surface access, and encourage greener journeys within the airport's operations. The plan also includes the possibility of a rail halt on the Bangor line, making Belfast City Airport the first on the island of Ireland with a direct rail link. A feasibility study is currently underway with Translink into the proposed rail link for the airport.
The draft Master Plan emphasises Belfast City Airport's commitment to meeting future demand. To achieve this, the airport proposes increasing its annual cap on aircraft movements from 48,000 to 61,000, with no runway extension required. This expansion is expected to allow the airport to accommodate 7 million passengers annually by 2040.
Sustainability measures form a significant part of the draft Master Plan. The airport aims to progress towards net zero and prioritises encouraging more passengers to use public transport. New developments such as a hotel and more electric vehicle charging points are also proposed.
The delivery of the Master Plan is seen as a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will benefit passengers and businesses across the region. The airport estimates that this investment could support over 23,000 jobs regionally and contribute around £1.7 billion in annual gross value added (GVA) to the Northern Ireland economy.
Feedback on the draft Master Plan is being invited until 11 November 2025. Responses can be submitted online, by post, or at public engagement sessions. The consultation is a demonstration of Belfast City Airport's commitment to engaging with the local community and stakeholders as it plans for the future.
The draft Master Plan reinforces Belfast City Airport's position as a vital economic enabler for the region. By investing in its infrastructure and facilities, the airport aims to continue driving economic growth, connectivity, and sustainability in Northern Ireland for years to come.
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