Belfast Airport (BFS) Guide
Welcome to Belfast Airport, the gateway to Northern Ireland. With its modern facilities and convenient location, BFS is the perfect starting point for your Irish adventure. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but don't worry, we've got you covered. Our comprehensive guide is packed with helpful information and tips to help you navigate BFS Airport with ease. From flight status and tracking to airline departure terminals and gate locations, parking options, terminal maps, food and shopping directories, and more, we've got everything you need to know to get from your door to your gate. So sit back, relax, and let us take care of the details. For more detailed information about major airports worldwide, check out the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.
Helpful Tips
When to Arrive
When traveling through the airport, it is recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. The busiest times at the airport are typically early mornings and late afternoons, so it is best to avoid these times if possible to minimize wait times and potential delays.
Getting to the Airport
There are several ways to get to Belfast Airport, including by car, bus, or taxi. If driving, be sure to leave plenty of time for traffic and parking, as the airport can get quite busy. There are also several bus routes that serve the airport, including the Airport Express 300, which runs every 15 minutes from Belfast city center. Taxis are also available, but can be more expensive than other options.
Getting Oriented
When arriving at Belfast Airport, it can be helpful to use the interactive airport maps available on iFly.com to get oriented. These maps allow you to easily navigate the airport and find your way to your gate, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. You can also use the maps to locate baggage claim areas and transportation options, making your arrival and departure as smooth as possible.
Avoiding Delays
To avoid delays at BFS, be sure to arrive early and allow plenty of time for check-in, security, and boarding. It is also important to check your flight status before leaving for the airport, as delays and cancellations can occur due to weather, mechanical issues, or other factors. Additionally, be sure to follow all airport rules and regulations, including restrictions on liquids and other items that are not allowed in carry-on bags.
Maps, Airlines & Amenities
Belfast Airport (BFS) Terminals
Navigating BFS's Terminals
BFS Airport, also known as George Best Belfast City Airport, has one terminal building with two floors. The terminal has 22 gates and is divided into two areas: the main terminal and the departures lounge. Major airlines such as Aer Lingus, British Airways, and Flybe operate from the airport.
Upon arrival at the airport, passengers will find the check-in desks located on the ground floor of the main terminal. After checking in, passengers can proceed to the security screening area on the same floor. Once through security, passengers will enter the departures lounge on the first floor. The departures lounge features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes for passengers to enjoy before their flight.
Passengers should note that there are no separate gates for arrivals and departures. Instead, passengers will arrive at the same gate area and will be directed to the appropriate baggage claim area.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has only one terminal, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. All gates and facilities are located within the same building, making it easy for travelers to navigate the airport.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Belfast Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy. For a quick bite before your flight, check out the popular coffee chain, Costa Coffee, located in the main terminal. If you're looking for something heartier, The Lagan Bar & Kitchen offers traditional Irish cuisine and a selection of local beers. For a grab-and-go option, try the gourmet sandwiches and salads at DeliLites.
When it comes to shopping, World Duty Free is a must-visit for all your travel retail needs, from cosmetics to liquor to souvenirs. For fashion and accessories, head to The Loop, where you can find well-known brands like Michael Kors and Swarovski. If you're in need of some reading material for your flight, WHSmith has a wide selection of books and magazines.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Belfast Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, see your options here.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a convenient place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered. From the contemporary three-star Maldron Hotel just a stone's throw away from the airport, to the charming Ballyrobin Country Lodge nestled in the serene countryside of Antrim, our comprehensive guide offers a variety of lodging options to suit every traveler's needs. If you're seeking something unique, check out the Crookedstone House or the Boutique Country House Aldergrove, blending country charm with modern amenities. Explore our guide to find the perfect place to rest and recharge after your flight. View all BFS Hotels now.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At BFS Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside the terminal buildings. However, it is important to note that there are strict parking restrictions in place, and vehicles cannot be left unattended at any time. Drivers should remain with their vehicles while waiting for passengers to arrive or depart.
If you need to wait for a passenger to arrive, there are cell-phone waiting areas available at the airport. These areas are free to use and allow drivers to park their vehicles while they wait for their passengers to call them and let them know they are ready to be picked up. The cell-phone waiting areas are located just a short distance from the terminal buildings, and there are signs directing drivers to the appropriate location.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at the airport, travelers have a few options to choose from. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with multiple parking lots and garages available. The short-term parking lots are located within walking distance of the terminal, making it a convenient option for those who are picking up or dropping off passengers.
For those who need to leave their car for an extended period, the long-term parking lots and garages are a great option. The airport provides a shuttle service that runs every 10-15 minutes, making it easy to get to and from the terminal.
If you're waiting for someone to arrive, the airport also has a cell phone waiting area. This area is free to use and allows you to wait in your car until your passenger arrives.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spots located close to the terminal.
If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available near Belfast Airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, with rates that are often lower than the airport's parking options.
Get details about Belfast Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
When arriving at BFS, travelers have several options for ground transportation. For those who prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. These companies offer a variety of vehicles to choose from, and reservations can be made in advance or upon arrival.
Taxi services are also available at the airport, with a designated pickup area located outside the terminal building. Fares are based on distance traveled, and there may be additional charges for luggage or traveling during peak hours.
For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available for pickup at designated areas outside the terminal building. However, it's important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers or amount of luggage allowed.
Airport shuttles are another option for travelers, with several companies offering service to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination and number of passengers.
Finally, public transportation options are available for those who prefer to use buses or trains. The airport is served by several bus routes, with stops located outside the terminal building. Additionally, the airport is located near several train stations, with connections available to destinations throughout Northern Ireland and beyond.
Passenger Services
If you're traveling through BFS Airport, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of passenger services available to make your journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
For those who need to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport. If you've lost something during your travels, be sure to check with the lost and found department located in the main terminal. Families with young children will appreciate the dedicated children's play area, located near the departure gates.
The airport is committed to providing special-needs services to all passengers. If you require assistance, be sure to contact the airport in advance to arrange for any necessary accommodations. Banking services are available in the main terminal, with ATMs and currency exchange available for your convenience. Finally, if you require medical assistance during your travels, there is a medical center located within the airport.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's essential to stay updated on the status of your flight. At Belfast Airport, there are several ways to get real-time information about your departure.
One of the most common ways is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays show flight status, including gate information, delays, and cancellations.
In addition to FIDS, many airlines offer mobile phone apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about their flight status. These alerts can be sent via text, email, or push notifications and can provide information about delays, cancellations, and gate changes.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Belfast Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
BFS, also known as Belfast International Airport, is the busiest airport in Northern Ireland and the second-busiest airport on the island of Ireland. The airport is located 13 miles northwest of Belfast and serves as a hub for several airlines.
The airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal is equipped with a range of facilities including shops, restaurants, and lounges.
The top airlines with the most daily flights at BFS Airport are EasyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2. On average, the airport handles around 6,000 passengers per day and operates around 70 flights per day.
The airport serves over 70 destinations worldwide, including popular holiday destinations such as Malaga, Alicante, and Tenerife. The top 5 destinations served from Belfast Airport are London, Manchester, Amsterdam, Alicante, and Faro.
The airport is a hub for several airlines, including Jet2, Ryanair, and TUI Airways. These airlines offer a range of domestic and international flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.
Airport History
Belfast Airport, also known as Belfast International Airport, is located in Northern Ireland and serves as the main airport for the city of Belfast. Here is a brief history of the airport:
- 1917 - The airport was originally opened as a Royal Flying Corps training establishment during World War I.
- 1920s - The airport was used for civil aviation, with flights to Glasgow and the Isle of Man.
- 1943 - During World War II, the airport was used as a base for RAF transport command.
- 1946 - The airport was officially opened for commercial flights.
- 1951 - The first transatlantic flight from BFS took place, with a flight to New York.
- 1963 - The airport's runway was extended to accommodate larger aircraft.
- 1991 - A new terminal building was opened, replacing the original building from 1946.
- 2005 - The airport was renamed Belfast International Airport.
- 2013 - The airport celebrated its 50th anniversary of commercial flights.
- 2020 - Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport saw a significant decrease in passenger traffic.
Today, Belfast International Airport serves over 6 million passengers annually and offers flights to destinations throughout Europe and beyond.
Airport Contact Info
For more information about BFS Airport, please use the following contact information:
- Website: https://www.belfastairport.com/
- Phone: +44 28 9448 4848
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Belfast International Airport, Belfast, BT29 4AB, United Kingdom