Belfast City Airport has lodged Proposal of Application Notices with Belfast City Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council, marking the formal start of public consultation on a major expansion programme. Subject to feedback, the airport expects to submit full planning applications later this year.

The draft plans, part of the airport’s Master Plan 2040 vision, include extended passenger facilities, new airfield infrastructure, additional parking, a hotel, and a pedestrian link designed to safeguard the option of a future rail halt directly serving the airport. The airport and Translink have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore what a rail halt might involve.

Separately, the airport is seeking to modify its legally binding Planning Agreement to extend scheduled evening flights from 21:30 BST to 22:30, and to increase the annual flight cap from 48,000 to 61,000 movements. The final decision on those operating changes would rest with the infrastructure minister. The draft amendments also specify a one-hour increase in the scheduled operating day, from 15 to 16 hours, while retaining the no-fly period between midnight and 06:29. The airport has said the proposals would remain within the existing noise contour and environmental controls.

Chief executive Matthew Hall stated that the extended operating hours and higher traffic movement limits are critical for meeting forecast rises in air travel demand. He said the changes would provide the operational flexibility needed for airline schedules and future route development, while balancing growth with a commitment to being a responsible neighbour.

Economic appraisals have estimated the project could generate £1.7 billion for the economy and support more than 23,000 jobs. The airport has said new estimates suggest air travel to and from the island of Ireland is expected to double by 2040, and that it anticipates carrying around 7 million passengers annually by that date.

The notices represent a potential £200 million private investment. The airport has confirmed the proposals do not include any extension to the existing runway. A separate voluntary public consultation on the planning agreement amendments will run alongside the statutory process, giving communities the opportunity to comment on the full package of proposals.