Belfast City Airport has released its final Master Plan 2040, laying out an ambitious £200 million vision to increase capacity, enhance connectivity, and embed sustainability at the heart of its future development. Following extensive public consultation in late 2025, the plan sets out how the airport aims to grow from 2.4 million passengers annually today to 7 million by 2040, while remaining within its existing noise contour thanks to a transition toward quieter, cleaner new‑generation aircraft. The Master Plan details a significant expansion of airport infrastructure, including an extended terminal with upgraded security and baggage systems and a new two‑storey pier. The number of aircraft stands is expected to rise to 21, supported by additional apron space and new taxiways. Surface access will also undergo major improvements, with the creation of a redesigned multi‑modal forecourt that prioritises public transport and enhances access for buses, taxis, cyclists, and pedestrians. The plan further incorporates complementary on‑site developments such as a new airport hotel and an electric‑vehicle charging forecourt, strengthening passenger facilities and supporting the shift toward more sustainable modes of travel.
One of the most transformative elements of the plan is the airport’s collaboration with Translink to explore the delivery of a direct rail connection to the terminal. If realised, Belfast City Airport would become the first airport on the island of Ireland with a dedicated rail halt, dramatically improving access and reducing reliance on private cars. This initiative forms part of a broader sustainability commitment outlined in the airport’s 2024 Sustainability Strategy. The strategy includes ambitions to accelerate the airport’s net‑zero operations target to 2040, ten years ahead of its previous goal, supported by improved energy efficiency, the introduction of additional onsite renewable generation and the facilitation of Sustainable Aviation Fuel in line with UK government mandates. Efforts to reduce private car usage will be reinforced through targeted improvements to public and active transport links, enhancing the airport’s overall environmental performance.
The economic implications of the Master Plan are substantial. By 2040, the airport’s expansion is projected to generate £1.7 billion in Gross Value Added across Northern Ireland each year and support more than 23,000 jobs region‑wide, including over 1,100 new positions on the airport site itself. Increased capacity and improved connectivity are expected to boost investment, strengthen business links to the UK and Europe, and attract more inbound tourists. The plan also aims to help retain the significant proportion of Northern Ireland passengers who currently travel via Dublin Airport due to its wider choice of destinations, ensuring more of the region’s travel demand is served locally.
The Master Plan has been shaped by robust consultation. During the eight‑week consultation period, 72 percent of public respondents supported the overall vision, while 95 percent of surveyed passengers expressed approval. Political leaders across Northern Ireland also welcomed the economic and connectivity benefits outlined in the plan. Some concerns were raised regarding future operating hours, environmental impacts, and the potential increase in aircraft movements; however, the airport emphasises that any changes to operating hours or annual movement limits would undergo separate assessment and full public consultation. Importantly, the forecast increase in flights is expected to remain within the airport’s existing noise limits due to the use of quieter, more fuel‑efficient aircraft types.
Overall, the Master Plan 2040 provides a strategic blueprint for ensuring Belfast City Airport can meet future demand in a sustainable, responsible, and economically beneficial way. It aligns closely with the Northern Ireland Executive’s Programme for Government and UK aviation policy, both of which highlight the importance of strengthening regional connectivity and making best use of existing runway infrastructure. Airport Chief Executive Matthew Hall describes the plan as a vital step in securing Northern Ireland’s long‑term competitiveness, enhancing tourism, and unlocking new opportunities for people, businesses, and communities across the region. The full Master Plan and associated reports are available here.
