Belfast International Airport has unveiled the results of phase one of its £100m 5-year investment programme with a new terminal extension which includes a state-of-the-art security hall using Next Generation Security Equipment, an immersive new Duty-Free experience as well as enhancements to the Arrivals experience including a new external forecourt area.
The first £25m investment phase, which is now complete, features the transformative 1,600 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 such as Charlotte Tilbury and Rituals, enriching the airport’s retail landscape with high-quality, exciting options. The offering also celebrates Northern Ireland’s local heritage with the introduction of beloved local brands such as McConnells, Bushmills, and Boatyard Distillery.
This authenticity is further enhanced through a partnership with Tourism Northern Ireland, including initiatives like the Northern Ireland Spirits Trail, highlighting the region’s rich distilling heritage. Passengers can also explore an international tasting bar, sampling local and global products to discover and take home their favourite finds.
With further investment committed over the next three years, the airport is expected to record another record year building on the success of 2024.
Reflecting on the airport’s progress, Belfast International Airport’s Chief Executive Dan Owens said: “When we started this process around two years ago, we were focused on our goal to transform the passenger experience at Belfast International Airport. Today we can say we have made significant progress in achieving that goal. We provide employment for over 4000 people connecting almost 7 million passengers across our airline network. As the economic driver for this region in terms of economic development and tourism growth we are committed to further enhancing the passenger experience while also working with our airline partners to develop our network of routes.”
