Belfast City Airport has launched a public consultation on £200 million draft investment proposals designed to accommodate growing passenger demand by 2040.
Belfast City Airport (BHD) has announced a public consultation on its potential £200 million draft investment proposals, following the submission of Proposal of Application Notices (PANs) to Belfast City Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council.
Alongside consultation on the planning applications, the airport will also undertake a voluntary public consultation on proposed changes to its current Planning Agreement, governed by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), giving the community an opportunity to comment on the full package of draft proposals.
The consultation period runs from 29 September to 27 October 2026. Residents, businesses and stakeholders can learn more and share feedback in person at consultation events, in writing to the airport’s Master Plan Team, via a dedicated consultation website, or by email, with responses used to inform any future planning applications.
Matthew Hall, Chief Executive at Belfast City Airport, said: “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.
“We encourage local residents, passengers, and businesses to attend one of our consultation events, find out more about our draft proposals, and share their views… the feedback received will help inform any future planning applications and we look forward to hearing from everyone with an interest in the airport’s future.”
Belfast City Airport is anticipated to need to grow to carry 7 million passengers annually by 2040. To support that growth, the airport’s draft proposals would enhance passenger facilities, improve operations and invest in critical infrastructure, strengthening Northern Ireland’s connectivity and economy.
In parallel with the draft infrastructure proposals, Belfast City Airport will be seeking amendments to its existing Planning Agreement to ensure it can meet forecast demand and unlock associated benefits, including increased connectivity to the UK and Europe.
Hall added: “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.”
For more information about Belfast City Airport’s consultation period and how to get involved, visit: belfastcityairport.com/vision.
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