Belfast International Airport (BFS) – Northern Ireland

Belfast International Airport is an airport 11.5 NM northwest of Belfast in Northern Ireland. Formerly known as Aldergrove Airport, after the nearby village of Aldergrove, Belfast International is Northern Ireland’s busiest airport and the second busiest airport on the island of Ireland after Dublin Airport. Visit the airport website. We do have another post that covers details about Belfast Airport Parking or Park and Fly Belfast Airport .

Entrance of Belfast International Airport
Belfast International Airport

Belfast International Airport: Your Gateway to Northern Ireland

Belfast International Airport is the largest airport in Northern Ireland and a major gateway for both business and leisure travelers. Located approximately 13 miles northwest of Belfast city center, the airport offers a range of facilities and services to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Brief History of Belfast International Airport

Belfast International Airport has a rich history dating back to the 1920s when it was originally used as a landing strip for light aircraft. Over the years, the airport has undergone several changes and expansions to become the bustling airport it is today. In 2019, over 6.2 million passengers traveled through the airport, making it one of the busiest airports in the United Kingdom.

Location and Facilities BFS Airport

The airport is conveniently located just off the M2 motorway and is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. The terminal building offers a range of facilities and services including;

  • Shops
  • Restaurants
  • Bars
  • Currency exchange
  • ATMs
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Short-stay parking
  • Long-stay parking
  • Valet parking

Airlines and Destinations from Belfast International Airport

Belfast International Airport serves over 70 destinations across Europe and beyond, with airlines such as easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, and Wizz Air operating from the airport. Popular destinations include London, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, and Paris, as well as a range of sun and ski destinations.

Belfast International Airport Travel Tips:

  • Arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight, especially during peak travel periods.
  • Be aware of the security procedures and restrictions on liquids and electronics.
  • Check with your airline for baggage allowance and check-in procedures.
  • Pack your bags appropriately, keeping in mind the airline’s baggage policies.
  • Bring any necessary travel documents and keep them easily accessible.
  • Consider pre-booking parking or transportation to and from the airport.
  • Check the airport website or contact customer service for any updates or changes to your flight.

Airport Hotels

Exterior image of Maldron Hotel Belfast International Airport
Maldron Hotel Belfast International Airport

If you have an early morning flight or a late arrival, there are several hotels located near Belfast International Airport. These include the Maldron Hotel Belfast International Airport, the Hilton Belfast Templepatrick Golf and Country Club, and the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens.

Future Developments at Belfast International Airport

Belfast International Airport is constantly evolving to meet the needs of its passengers, with plans for future development in the pipeline. These include a major expansion of the terminal building, the addition of new routes and airlines, and improvements to the airport’s public transport links.

Belfast International Airport (BFS) details

How many airports are there in Belfast?

Belfast is served by two airports The Belfast International Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport. The Belfast International Airport (BFS), is approximately 20 miles from Belfast city centre and handles both international and domestic flights. George Best Belfast City Airport is a single-runway airport in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Situated near the Port of Belfast, the airport is 3 mi (5 km) from Belfast City Centre.  The airport primarily serves intra-UK flights.

Is there a car parking at Belfast International Airport?

The Belfast International airport parking offers car park facility for guests/visitors. 

Does Belfast International Airport have a train station?

The nearest station to Belfast International is Antrim Train station in the north which offers taxis and buses to the airport. Alternatively, if you can take the train into Belfast City Centre, there are buses to take you the rest of the way – mainly the 300 service.

How much is a taxi from Belfast International Airport to Belfast City Centre?

The 30-40min journey costs £8 single and £11.50 return. Get to town by taxi: A taxi rank is beside the Airbus stop; a ride to the city centre will take around 30mins and cost c.£35 – sample fares are displayed as you exit the airport.

How to get to Belfast International Airport by Road?

Belfast International Airport is situated just 18 miles north-west of Belfast and is easily accessed via the major road and motorway network.

Driving Directions to Belfast Airport

From Belfast city to Belfast Airport: 
Take the M2 northbound, turn off at Junction 5 and take the A57 for 7 miles until you reach Belfast International Airport.

From the north/north west/north east to Belfast Airport: 
Take the M2 southbound to junction 5, then the A57 for 7 miles until you reach Belfast International Airport.

From the south and west to Belfast Airport: 
Take the M1 motorway northbound in the direction of Moira, turn off at Junction 9 towards Antrim and proceed via the A26 through Nutts Corner to Belfast International Airport.

From Dublin to Belfast airport: 
Follow the MI/EI northbound until Newry, at Newry take the Bypass and then continue onto the A1, at the M1 Motorway follow it westbound, turn off at Junction 9 and proceed via the A26 to Belfast International Airport.

Using Satellite Navigation Systems: The Airport’s postcode is BT29 4AB – if directed to Crumlin, exit via the Nutts Corner Road and follow the signs to Belfast International Airport.

Hotels near Belfast international Airport?

Please find all airport hotels near Belfast Airport listed on Aerfortel.com website

Belfast International Airport plays a vital role in the economy and tourism of Northern Ireland, providing a gateway to the region for both business and leisure travelers. With its convenient location, modern facilities, and range of destinations, the airport is sure to continue to grow and serve the needs of its passengers for many years to come.