Belfast International Airport is Northern Ireland’s busiest airport.
It’s one of several airports in Ireland located in the area, along with George Best Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport.
Belfast International Airport is located around 20km outside of Belfast City Centre and it was originally used by the Royal Flying Corps for training during WWI.
Some quick need-to-knows about Belfast International Airport
Although a visit to Belfast International Airport is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.
1. Location
Belfast International Airport is located in Crumlin, around a 30-minute drive from the city centre.
2. Parking
A range of car parking options are available, including short-stay, long-stay, and premium parking facilities.
3. Amenities
There’s plenty of places to eat here from The Lagan Bar, Burger King, Caffee Ritazza, Sip & Stone, Starbucks, Fed & Watered, Coco Diablo and more.
4. Airlines
Several airlines operate at the airport, including easyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2, serving numerous destinations worldwide.
5. Road trips starting here
We have countless road trip itineraries that use Belfast City as a starting point. You can choose itineraries that use only public transport or ones that use a car. Find them all here.
What to know about arriving in/leaving from Belfast International Airport
Belfast International Airport is like any major airport when it comes to the likes of check-in times, security and customs.
As always, the points below will give you a speedy overview of the main need-to-knows.
Check-in
It is generally advised to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time.
Do note that some airlines will advise you to arrive before this and it’s always advised that you arrive earlier during peak travel times.
Immigration and customs
The airport is equipped to handle both domestic and international passengers.
While it’s known to have efficient customs and passport control procedures, they can get busy during summer when traveller numbers surge.
Transportation
An Airport Express 300 service operates between the airport and Belfast city center. Taxis and car hire services are also available.
Luggage services
The airport provides luggage trolleys and a lost property service.
A brief history of Belfast International Airport
Belfast International Airport was originally opened in 1917 as a training base for the Royal Flying Corps.
In the 1960s, the airport began commercial operations, becoming Northern Ireland’s main airport.
It underwent significant expansion in the 1990s and early 2000s to accommodate growing passenger numbers.
Today, the airport serves over 6 million passengers per year, making it the busiest airport in Northern Ireland and the second-busiest on the island of Ireland.
Things to do near Belfast International Airport
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There’s plenty to see and do a short distance from Belfast International Airport, for those of you landing here.
If you’re looking to stay in the city, see out guide to the best hotels in Belfast. Here are some nearby attractions:
1. Belfast City’s many sites
There’s endless things to do in Belfast. Some of our favourites are Crumlin Road Gaol, the many Belfast murals and the Belfast Black Cab tours.
2. Lough Neagh
As the largest lake by area in the British Isles, Lough Neagh is a haven for wildlife and offers many outdoor activities.
3. The Causeway Coastal Route
The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the finest road trips in Ireland. It takes in everywhere from the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge to the incredible Dunluce Castle.
4. The Gobbins
The Gobbins is a dramatic coastal walk located on the Islandmagee peninsula, offering breathtaking views and a unique and memorable experience.
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.