Belfast International Airport has officially launched the first phase of its £100 million transformation, with a brand-new terminal extension designed to enhance passenger comfort, streamline security procedures, and elevate the travel experience. As Northern Ireland’s busiest airport and part of the global VINCI Airports network, Belfast International Airport is taking a bold step forward in modernizing its infrastructure and boosting regional connectivity.
New Terminal Extension: A £25M Milestone
The first completed stage of the investment—valued at £25 million—features a 1,600 square meter terminal extension that significantly redefines the airport’s core offerings. Passengers can now enjoy a spacious new security hall fitted with Next Generation Security Equipment (NGSE), along with a reimagined Duty-Free zone and improved arrival facilities.
This opening marks the beginning of a five-year investment program launched by VINCI Airports, the company that has managed Belfast International since 2018. The program is focused on future-proofing the airport for anticipated passenger growth and enhancing its role in Northern Ireland’s tourism, business, and economic sectors.
Next Generation Security Technology
One of the most anticipated elements of the expansion is the new security hall, which introduces state-of-the-art Next Generation Security Equipment. Passengers no longer need to remove liquids or electronics from their hand luggage, dramatically reducing wait times and simplifying the screening process. The area’s wide, open design contributes to a more relaxed and efficient environment—an upgrade that aligns with global trends in airport security innovation.
The security area was purpose-built to scale with rising passenger volumes, ensuring it remains effective well into the future. With increasing demand from both leisure and business travelers, this infrastructure will play a vital role in supporting the airport’s operational needs.
Immersive Retail and Duty-Free Experiences
In addition to improved security, the new terminal houses an expanded and immersive Duty-Free area that merges shopping, food & beverage, and travel essentials under one roof. The 1,600 sqm space brings together world-renowned brands and beloved local names for a curated shopping experience that reflects both international and regional appeal.
For the first time, passengers at Belfast International Airport can access a retail offering that mirrors those found in major global hubs, featuring:
- Global luxury and beauty brands
- Local Irish spirits and gourmet products
- Integrated food and beverage options
- Convenient travel essentials
This approach not only enhances the overall passenger experience but also supports local businesses by spotlighting regional products to international travelers.
Revamped Arrivals and External Forecourt
The arrivals area has also received an upgrade, with improved flow and accessibility. A new external forecourt makes pick-up and drop-off easier, helping to reduce congestion and create a more welcoming first impression for visitors to Northern Ireland.
These enhancements are part of a broader vision to align Belfast International Airport with best practices in airport design, sustainability, and customer service. More changes are on the horizon as additional phases of the investment unfold over the coming years.
VINCI Airports’ Long-Term Vision
The airport’s long-term redevelopment plan is spearheaded by VINCI Airports, one of the world’s largest airport operators, overseeing more than 70 airports across 13 countries. Speaking during the inauguration, Nicolas Notebaert, CEO of Concessions at VINCI and President of VINCI Airports, emphasized the company’s commitment:
“This first delivery of VINCI Airports’ investment programme to modernise Belfast International Airport improves the passenger experience with state-of-the-art security features and high-quality retail offer. As the airport plays a pivotal role for aviation, tourism and local economy, VINCI Airports is committed to boosting connectivity and sustainable growth for Northern Ireland.”
Also present at the inauguration were First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, underlining the strategic importance of the airport’s development to the regional government and local economy.
Economic and Tourism Impact
Belfast International Airport currently employs over 4,000 people across its site and serves as a vital transportation hub for the region. With these upgrades, the airport is expected to break new passenger records in 2025 and beyond, further cementing its role as a driver of tourism and business in Northern Ireland.
As the largest airport in the region, Belfast International offers connections to over 70 destinations, and its expanding capabilities may pave the way for even more routes in the future. These improvements ensure that both leisure travelers and business passengers benefit from a world-class experience every step of the way.
What’s Next for Belfast International Airport?
The completion of phase one is just the beginning. Over the next three years, VINCI Airports plans to roll out additional improvements as part of the broader £100 million investment plan. Future developments are expected to include more retail and dining options, sustainable infrastructure upgrades, and expanded facilities to accommodate rising international demand.
With phase one now complete, Belfast International Airport is positioned not just to meet today’s travel expectations—but to set a new benchmark for what passengers can expect from a modern regional airport.
