Belfast City Airport has published its draft Master Plan 2040 for consultation, setting out a programme of development that would see major investment in new and upgraded facilities, transport links, and supporting infrastructure.

The plan, which could attract up to £200 million in private investment to deliver these works, outlines proposals for extended terminal and airfield capacity, improvements to surface access, and the introduction of complementary developments such as a hotel and expanded electric vehicle charging facilities. It also includes a feasibility study for a new rail halt, which would make Belfast City the first airport on the island of Ireland with a direct rail connection.

To accommodate projected passenger growth from the current level to seven million per year by 2040, the airport is seeking approval to increase the annual cap on aircraft movements from 48,000 to 61,000. No runway extension is anticipated.

Delivery of the plan would involve significant construction and engineering works, supporting over 1,100 new on-site jobs and thousands more across the region. Alongside physical expansion, the airport has committed to maintaining growth within its current noise contour limit and to encouraging investment in cleaner, quieter aircraft. Limited flexibility in evening operating hours is also being considered to help airlines schedule routes more effectively. Matthew Hall, Chief Executive of Belfast City Airport, said: "Delivery of our Master Plan is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will benefit passengers and businesses across the region, whilst delivering key elements of the Northern Ireland Executive's Programme for Government... By 2040, we could generate £1.7 billion in GVA for Northern Ireland and support over 23,000 jobs across the region, including over 1,100 new roles at the airport campus."

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland's First Minister and deputy First Minister have welcomed plans to transform and grow Belfast City Airport into 2040.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "Belfast City Airport is more than just a gateway – it is a major part of our economy. It supports hundreds of jobs, boosts local businesses and helps drive tourism. This Master Plan shows great ambition and a really bold vision for the future. I look forward to seeing how this next chapter unfolds and the positive impact it will have on our people, visitors and generations to come."

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly added: "The Belfast City Airport Master Plan has the potential to deliver huge benefits for Northern Ireland. Growing a globally and sustainable economy is a priority for us and this plan aligns seamlessly with this as it will drive connectivity and support future economic growth. It will also strengthen our tourism sector, support employment and reinforce Northern Ireland's position as a great place to work, live, visit and invest in."

The draft Master Plan is open for public consultation until November 11, 2025, with community engagement events scheduled across Belfast and North Down in October. These include:

• Thursday, October 2, at Riddell Hall, QUB, South Belfast (2–4pm and 6–8pm);

• Thursday, October 9, at Templemore Baths, East Belfast (2–4pm and 6–8pm);

• Thursday, October 16, at Holywood Library, North Down (2–4pm and 6–8pm).

The full document is available at belfastcityairport.com/vision.