Belfast International Airport BFS: Departures and guide

Flying from/to Belfast International Airport

When arriving to Belfast International Airport, it can be unclear how to reach your final destination, or more generally, to the city centre. We, at Omio, have mapped out good things to know, facilities available when flying to Belfast International Airport and what to do when you get to the city.

Travel from Belfast city center to Belfast International Airport

Belfast is the largest city and the capital of Northern Ireland, located on the banks of the Lagan River on the country's east coast. Rich history, culture, and friendly people define Belfast. From its glorious shipbuilding history, including building the iconic RMS Titanic, to the ever-changing art scenes swirling around the Cathedral's Quarter, Belfast has it all. Belfast locals often use cars to get in and around the city. However, public transportation is also accessible, with most buses being operated by Translink. Ulsterbus is another bus company serving smaller areas around the city. Translink operates to Dublin, George Best, Belfast International, and City of Derry Airports from towns around Northern Ireland.

What's the best way to get to Belfast International Airport from Belfast city center?

Belfast International Airport is accessible by several means of transportation. For those who don't want to drive, there are regular buses and taxis. By road, the airport, which is situated 18 miles (28 kilometers) from Belfast, is accessible by the major motorway and road networks. Travelers from Belfast city center to the airport should take the M2 northbound, turn off at exit 5, and take the A57 for about seven miles (11 kilometers) up to the airport. A regular airport express bus service and Ulsterbus link the city center to the airport at the Europa Bus Center. The trip takes about 30 minutes. The Trainline offers easy booking to those who wish to travel to the airport from the city center. The Antrim train station in the north is the nearest train station to Belfast International Airport. From the station, passengers can take buses or taxis to the airport.

How far is it from Belfast city center to Belfast International Airport?

Belfast International Airport is located 18 miles (28 kilometers) north of Belfast in Northern Ireland. Formerly known as Aldergrove Airport, it's the country's busiest airport and the second busiest airport on the Emerald Isle after Dublin Airport. Translink operates the Airport Express 300 daily for seven days a week. During peak times from Monday to Friday, bus services run every 15 minutes, covering the distance in about 30-40 minutes.

What facilities are there at Belfast International Airport?

The passenger terminal at the airport is located on two floors. The upper level serves departing passengers, and the lower level serves arriving passengers. Since this isn't the biggest airport in the world, travelers are limited in how many food options, amenities, and shops are available. Facilities available to departing passengers include an airport information desk, a business lounge, cash machines, currency exchange, an excellent range of restaurants, cafes and shops, and baby changing facilities. There's a visitors information desk in the arrivals hall for all international and domestic passengers, offering information on onward travel, visitor attractions and accommodation. International passengers can access currency exchange offices in the baggage reclaim area and car rental desks in the domestic arrivals hall. The airport also has retail outlets and eateries where passengers can relax before taking their flights. There are several food outlets serving specialty coffees, unique flame-grilled burgers, and more.

How accessible is Belfast International Airport for those with limited mobility?

Disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility should contact the airline they're flying at least 48 hours before departure to arrange for assistance. Disabled facilities at the airport include a dedicated special assistance team, fully-equipped accessible restrooms, wheelchair-accessible doors, parking bays for disabled passengers, an induction loop at the airport's information desk, helplines, and ambuelevators. Also, there are blue badge parking bays designated for travelers with disabilities. There are help buttons located at all entrances, pay stations, and airport exits. All blue badge holders are eligible for discounted parking fees in the short stay car park. The airport further provides wheelchair-accessible buses to ferry passengers with reduced mobility from the long-stay car park to the terminal building.

Local tips: how to travel to Belfast International Airport like a local

Car rentals are recommended for those with a lot of luggage. Car rental desks are located in the arrivals hall, open for all inbound flights. Car rental companies available in the airport include Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Enterprise. Those traveling as a group should consider renting a car as well. Booking in advance is recommended, so the companies have enough time to arrange for the meeting point and other relevant information.