Belfast City Airport has announced the intake of six new participants into its High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme, further strengthening its commitment to developing the next generation of aviation professionals.

The long-running initiative was expanded in 2025 to include an IT engineering apprenticeship for the first time, reflecting the airport's evolving technical requirements. This new role joins five additional positions within the Airport's Fire and Rescue Service. The six successful recruits—Paul McNally, Ethan McKee, Jordan McDowell, Daniel Fusco, Liam Cunning, and Daniel Burke—are now working toward industry-recognised qualifications while gaining practical experience in their respective departments.

Now in its 12th year, the programme was originally designed to combat youth unemployment in Northern Ireland by providing a direct pipeline into the aviation industry. To date, it maintains a 100% success rate for apprentices transitioning into permanent, full-time employment at the airport. Aileen O'Kane, Head of People and Purpose at Belfast City Airport, said: "At Belfast City Airport, our people are at the heart of everything we do, and the High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme reflects our commitment to fostering a positive work environment where individuals can succeed. The programme plays an important role in building a skilled workforce, creating new pathways for young people to develop specialist, future-focused skills while supporting the airport's long-term growth. Each apprentice has shown strong commitment and potential, and we're confident they'll continue to excel in the aviation industry."

Apprentice Firefighter Daniel Fusco noted that the programme provides a unique opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals in a live operational setting. This sentiment was echoed by Jordan McDowell, the airport's first Apprentice IT Engineer, who added: "The High Flyers Apprenticeship offers hands-on experience you simply can't get anywhere else. I'm excited to be part of the team and to develop the skills needed to work in such a unique environment."