Major UK airport reveals £200 million upgrade plans

Belfast City airport has revealed a £200 million proposal to update its infrastructure, with plans to extend its evening flights until 10.30pm.

Draft plans submitted to Belfast City Council include extended passenger facilities, new airfield infrastructure, additional parking and additional uses for the site, including a hotel.

The Master Plan 2040 could generate £1.7 billion in annual economic contribution to the regional economy and support more than 23,000 jobs across Northern Ireland if approved, said the aviation hub.

The airport is also seeking permission to operate later flights, moving from a 15-hour day to a 16-hour day with scheduled operations until 10.30pm instead of 9.30pm.

According to Belfast City, this would increase annual traffic movements from 48,000 up to 61,000 with ambitions to support seven million annual passengers by 2040.

A direct rail link serving the airport is also being explored for future journeys by the airport and Translink.

Matthew Hall, chief executive at Belfast City airport, said: “These draft infrastructure proposals have been designed to support the airport’s growth in a way that is balanced and mindful of our surroundings and, importantly, do not include any extension to the existing runway.”

According to the airport, more information will be provided in the coming weeks subject to feedback during a community consultation.

Plans would then be put to Belfast City Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council later this year.

Hall added: “We recognise the long-standing relationship we have with our local communities, and we are committed to maintaining an open and constructive dialogue as these plans progress.

“By working closely with residents, businesses, elected representatives and other stakeholders, we can help ensure the airport continues to deliver for Northern Ireland while being a considerate and responsible neighbour.”

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