Belfast International Airport will raise its drop-off zone fee from £3 to £5 starting Monday 9 March. The zone sits next to the terminal building and allows drivers up to 10 minutes for passenger collection or drop-off.

A free alternative exists in the long-stay car park, where drivers can wait 15 minutes before charges apply. Blue badge holders receive 30 minutes free in the short-stay car park.

Airport operators cite cost pressures affecting businesses across Northern Ireland as the reason for the increase. They emphasise ongoing efforts to upgrade facilities through a £100 million investment programme.

Recent investments include a new terminal extension, security hall and improved duty-free area. Work on forecourt layout changes will start soon to improve traffic flow and public transport access.

Such fees help fund airport operations amid economic challenges in the region, where businesses face higher costs for energy and materials.