Belfast City Airport publishes plan to reach 7m passengers by 2040

Matthew Hall CEO of Belfast City Airport

Belfast City Airport’s Draft Master Plan 2040 has been published, aiming to unlock €235m in private investment and support 23,000 jobs, contributing €2bn annually to Northern Ireland’s economy.

The plan includes a potential rail halt, making it the first airport on the island of Ireland with rail connectivity. The airport projects handling 7m passengers by 2040, doubling its current workforce to over 2,200.

Sustainability goals include advancing net zero ambitions and increasing EV charging facilities. Public consultation on the plan is open until 11 November 2025, with community engagement events scheduled in October 2025.

Matthew Hall shared: “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 Executive’s Programme for Government.”

The economic benefits from delivery of our Master Plan will be significant. By 2040, we could generate £1.7bn in GVA for Ireland and support over 23,000 jobs across the region, including over 1,100 new roles at the airport campus.”

We want more passengers to arrive by public transport and leave their cars at home, hence a focus on greener journeys within the Master Plan. If Belfast City is not able to meet growth in passenger demand, there will be constraints on the region’s air connectivity which would frustrate ambitions to improve economic productivity, increase foreign direct investment, grow tourism and create more jobs through activity at the airport. Belfast City Airport is more than just a gateway it is a major part of our economy.”

First minister Michelle O’Neill shared: “This master plan shows great ambition and a really bold vision for the future.”