Belfast City Airport has unveiled proposals that could see flights operating later into the evening as part of wider plans to expand the airport and accommodate future growth in passenger demand.
The airport is seeking approval to extend its current evening operating time from 9.30pm to 10.30pm, giving airlines greater flexibility when planning services to and from Belfast.
It is also proposing a significant increase in the number of permitted annual aircraft movements, with the existing limit of 48,000 flights a year potentially rising to 61,000 – an increase of around 27%.
Changes to existing planning agreement
For the proposals to proceed, changes would be required to the airport’s legally binding Planning Agreement.
The process is expected to involve local councils and relevant planning authorities, with any final decision on amendments likely to involve Northern Ireland’s Infrastructure Minister.
The proposals could also face scrutiny from people living close to the airport, as well as environmental organisations concerned about additional flights and later operating hours.
Belfast City Airport Chief Executive Matthew Hall said the changes were important if the airport is to respond to anticipated growth in demand for air travel.
According to the airport, greater flexibility around operating hours and aircraft movements would help airlines develop schedules and potentially support the introduction of new routes, while maintaining commitments to surrounding communities.
Bigger plans for Belfast City Airport
The proposed changes form part of a much broader vision for the future of the airport.
A Pre Application Notice (PAN) has now been submitted, beginning a period of public consultation before a full planning application is expected later this year.
Plans being considered include expanded passenger facilities, improvements to airfield infrastructure, additional car parking and other developments associated with the airport.
A new hotel is also included within the proposals.
The expansion project was initially outlined last year and would represent a significant investment in the airport’s facilities if planning permission is ultimately secured.
Potential rail connection
One of the most notable elements of the plans is the possibility of creating a direct pedestrian connection between Belfast City Airport and a future rail halt.
The airport wants to protect the opportunity for such a link to be developed as part of the wider project, potentially making it easier for passengers to travel between the terminal and Northern Ireland’s rail network.
Any new station would require cooperation with public transport operator Translink.
Belfast City Airport and Translink have already signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore the options and determine what could potentially be delivered.
Public consultation ahead
The submission of the Pre Application Notice means the public will have an opportunity to have their say before the airport submits its full planning application.
With proposals covering later flights, more annual aircraft movements, expanded terminal facilities, parking, a hotel and the potential for improved rail connectivity, the plans could substantially change how Belfast City Airport operates in the years ahead.
The airport argues that the expansion is necessary to meet future travel demand and support route development, while the planning process will also have to consider the potential impact on neighbouring communities and the wider environment.
What do you think? Would later flights and more routes be good for Belfast, or would extending operations until 10.30pm have too much of an impact on nearby residents?
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