Belfast City Airport seeks to extend operating hours and attract more flights

Extended operating hours and a rise in flights are part of proposals to expand operations at Belfast City Airport.

A one-hour increase in scheduled operations would move the airport to a 16-hour day, with flights running up to 10.30pm, while maintaining the current no-fly period between midnight and 6.29am. 

This would see annual traffic movements rise from 48,000 to 61,000, accommodated “within the airport’s existing noise contour area limit and environmental controls”.

The docklands gateway to the Northern Ireland capital is seeking amendments to its existing planning agreement in parallel with draft infrastructure proposals as part of a 2040 masterplan designed to attract a potential £200 million in private investment.

The airport currently serves 24 destinations across the UK and Europe by Aer Lingus, British Airways, easyJet, KLM and Loganair. 

Chief executive Matthew Hall said: “Extended operating hours and increased annual traffic movement limits are critical for Belfast City Airport to be able to meet the forecast increase in demand for air travel and enable it to unlock the associated benefits, including increased connectivity to the UK and Europe. 

“They are also essential to support the investment needed to deliver the infrastructure required for the airport’s long-term growth. 

“The proposed changes would provide the operational flexibility required to facilitate airline schedules and future route development, while continuing to operate within a framework that recognises the importance of balancing growth with our commitment to being a responsible neighbour.” 

Further information will be provided in the coming weeks as the airport undertakes an extensive programme of community consultation, including public information events. Feedback received during the consultation will help inform final proposals. 

Northern Ireland’s airports are projected to need to handle up to 21 million passengers a year with air travel demand to and from the island of Ireland expected double in the next 15 years.

It is anticipated that Belfast City Airport will need to grow to handle seven million of these passengers annually by 2040. 

To support that growth, the airport’s draft proposals would enhance passenger facilities, improve airport operations and “invest in critical infrastructure, strengthening Northern Ireland’s connectivity and economy”.

If realised, the 2040 masterplan could generate £1.7 billion in annual economic contribution to the regional economy and support over 23,000 jobs across Northern Ireland, according to the airport.

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.”