Belfast City Airport has opened a public consultation on its draft 200 million pound investment proposals, running from 29 September to 27 October 2026. The plans are designed to accommodate growing passenger demand, with the airport anticipated to need to carry 7 million passengers a year by 2040.

Belfast City Airport is located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and is owned by a fund managed by private equity firm 3i. In its latest accounts, the airport reported turnover of 30.3 million pounds, up 8% year on year, with operating profit rising to 5.2 million pounds from 3.7 million pounds.

The consultation follows the submission of Proposal of Application Notices to Belfast City Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council. Alongside consultation on the planning applications, the airport is also running a voluntary public consultation on proposed changes to its existing Planning Agreement, which is overseen by Northern Ireland's Department for Infrastructure.

Residents, businesses and stakeholders can share feedback in person at consultation events, in writing to the airport's Master Plan Team, through a dedicated consultation website, or by email, with responses used to inform any future planning applications.

The draft proposals would enhance passenger facilities, improve operations and invest in critical infrastructure, as demand for air travel across the island of Ireland is forecast to double by 2040.

"This is an exciting time for Belfast City Airport, as we move from setting out our vision for the future to beginning the formal consultation process on our draft proposals. These proposals have been designed to help accommodate the future demand for air travel across the island of Ireland, which is set to double by 2040, in a way that is responsible, sustainable, and mindful of our neighbours," said Matthew Hall, chief executive of Belfast City Airport.

"This potential investment represents a significant long-term commitment to Belfast and Northern Ireland. By planning ahead for future demand, we can ensure the airport continues to support connectivity, tourism, trade and economic growth, while delivering the infrastructure needed for future generations of passengers and businesses," Hall said.

For the sector, the consultation marks a further step toward one of the largest single infrastructure commitments proposed at a Northern Ireland airport.

Source: International Airport Review / British Aviation Group