Belfast City Airport has launched a public consultation on its draft Master Plan 2040, setting out proposals for growth over the next 15 years.
The draft plan outlines potential private investment of up to 200 million GBP, which the airport estimates could support over 23,000 jobs regionally and contribute around 1.7 billion GBP in annual gross value added (GVA) to the Northern Ireland economy.
The document sets out key measures including:
- Expansion of terminal and airfield facilities
- Improvements to surface access
- New developments such as a hotel and more electric vehicle charging points
- The possibility of a rail halt on the Bangor line, which would make the airport the first on the island of Ireland with a direct rail link
Projections from aviation analysts suggest passenger demand across the island could double to 90 million per year by 2040. Under the draft plan, Belfast City Airport would aim to accommodate 7 million passengers annually within that timeframe.
The airport has noted that the plan would double its direct workforce to around 2,200, alongside further development of its apprenticeship academy and community engagement initiatives.
To meet forecast demand, the airport proposes increasing its annual cap on aircraft movements from 48,000 to 61,000. It has stated that no runway extension would be required.
Matthew Hall, Chief Executive of Belfast City Airport, said:Delivery of our Master Plan is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will benefit passengers and businesses across the region, whilst delivering key elements of the Northern Ireland Executive’s Programme for Government.
Every airport on the island of Ireland will need to play its part in meeting future demand, and this draft Master Plan exemplifies Belfast City Airport’s commitment to doing so, while reinforcing our position as a vital economic enabler for the region.
We want more passengers to arrive by public transport and leave their cars at home, hence a focus on greener journeys within the Master Plan.
Sustainability measures, including progress towards net zero, form part of the strategy. Encouraging more passengers to use public transport is highlighted as a priority, with a feasibility study underway with Translink into the proposed rail link.
The consultation runs until 11 November 2025. The draft Master Plan can be viewed at belfastcityairport.com/vision, where responses can also be submitted. Feedback is also being invited by post or at public engagement sessions.
