First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have opened the first phase of a £100 million investment programme into Belfast International Airport.
On Tuesday, the Ministers unveiled a plaque to officially mark the opening of a new terminal extension, which houses a ‘new state-of-the-art security hall, an upgraded duty-free experience and a new arrivals area.’
The upgrades mean that passengers will no longer have to remove liquids or electronics from their hand luggage.
Belfast International Airport has been owned by VINCI Airports since 2018, which is investing the majority of the £100 million five-year investment programme.
A spokesperson for VINCI Airports said: “The first £25m investment phase, which is now complete, features the transformative 1600 sqm Duty Free store which combines Duty Free, Food & Beverage and Travel Essentials all under one roof. For the first time, passengers will have access to iconic global brands as well as beloved local ones.”
“The new security hall has been purpose built for growth to ensure the area can adapt with passenger demand and features state of the art Next Generation Security Equipment meaning passengers no longer have to move liquids or electronics from hand luggage making for amore seamless transition through the security process – the wide open space provides passengers with a more relaxed experience,” they added.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “This impressive transformation of the terminal building shows Belfast International Airport’s commitment to improving its facilities and operational efficiency in order to enhance passenger experience.
“Improving our air connectivity with Europe and the rest of the world is key for growing business and tourism.
“This first part of the £100million investment plays a key role in our goal of delivering wider economic growth and creating jobs. I look forward to seeing the next phases of the programme come to fruition in the years ahead.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “Belfast International Airport is very much part of the fabric of Northern Ireland and a key gateway for domestic and international travel. It plays a pivotal role in connectivity, tourism and economic growth and the opening of this new, modern terminal extension will bring a range of benefits.
“I want to commend the airport’s management and its owners for their commitment to making such a significant investment in transforming and modernising the facility.
“I have no doubt that this airport will continue to grow as a regional asset and as a symbol of our global aspirations, and I wish everyone well for the next phases of this project.”
