Belfast City Airport seeks to expand flights and operating hours

Belfast City Airport is seeking permission to expand its operations as part of its 2040 Master Plan. The proposal includes extending evening flight times by one hour, moving the daily limit from 21:30 BST to 22:30 BST, and increasing the annual flight cap from 48,000 to 61,000 air traffic movements, representing a 27% increase.

The expansion aims to accommodate a projected rise in passenger demand, with a goal of serving 7 million passengers annually. The master plan involves £200 million in investment and includes new airfield infrastructure, extended passenger facilities, additional parking, and a potential hotel. A key component of the long-term strategy is the development of an air-rail link to connect the airport with the city’s railway, a project requiring cooperation with the public transport operator Translink.

Chief Executive Matthew Hall stated that the changes are “critical” to provide the operational flexibility needed for airline schedules and route development. Implementing these changes requires modifying the airport’s legally binding Planning Agreement through a process involving public consultation and approval from Belfast City Council and planning authorities. The proposals may face opposition from local residents and environmental groups.