VINCI Airport has launched a £100 million five-year investment plan to increase operational efficiency, improve the passenger experience and enhance the environmental performance of Belfast International Airport.
Phase one of the programme is already underway and due to be complete by Summer 2024, with the construction of a new security building adjacent to the current terminal building. The £25 million facility will transform the passenger security experience with the addition of Standard 3 X-ray screening equipment, which means passengers no longer need to remove electronics or liquids from their hand baggage.
Existing facilities, including the airside departure area will also be revamped to incorporate additional departure gates as well as extra seating. The Border Force area will also be extended over the next five years, while new catering and retail outlets will also be joining the departures area.
With traffic at the Belfast hub already exceeding 4.5 million since January 2023, these investments are needed to improve operational efficiency and quality of service. Additional jobs will be generated as a result of the build with an estimated 400 jobs with local construction firms.
The airport will also benefit from a 26 MWp new solar farm on the airport site, which will generate 22.4 GWh of electricity, to be injected into the grid and save 125,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. The farm will be developed, financed, built and operated by VINCI Concessions’ photovoltaic subsidiary SunMind.
“VINCI Airports’ investment will support Belfast International Airport’s positive dynamic by strongly improving the passenger experience,” said Nicolas Notebaert, CEO of VINCI Concessions & President of VINCI Airports.
“The airport plays a pivotal role for aviation, tourism and the wider local economy. As a long-term partner, VINCI Airports is committed to sustainably develop the airport and increase its environmental performance.”
