Belfast International Airport opens first phase of £100m redevelopment

Belfast International Airport has opened the first phase of its £100m redevelopment programme, completing a major terminal extension aimed at improving passenger capacity, security processing and retail facilities at Northern Ireland’s busiest airport.

image: Belfast International Airport

The opening marks the delivery of the initial stage of a wider five-year investment programme led by airport owner VINCI Airports, with the latest works including a new terminal extension featuring upgraded security screening equipment, expanded passenger areas and a redesigned arrivals forecourt. The development also introduces a significantly enlarged duty-free and retail space intended to support future passenger growth and enhance the airport experience.

The airport said the new security hall has been designed to accommodate next-generation screening technology, allowing more efficient processing of passengers and supporting expected increases in traffic in the coming years.

The first phase of the investment was officially opened in May 2025 by Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, alongside representatives from VINCI Airports.

The £100m programme is being delivered in stages, with further upgrades planned across the terminal over the coming years. The wider project is expected to include additional gates, expanded passenger seating and further improvements to operational efficiency and sustainability performance as part of long-term capacity planning.

Belfast International Airport said the investment is intended to support both current demand and future growth in passenger numbers, as well as strengthening its role in tourism, trade and connectivity for Northern Ireland.