BHD Airport Insights & Guide
Key BHD Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know BHD Airport
Discover Belfast City Airport (BHD), your entry to Northern Ireland's vibrant capital, located just a stone's throw from downtown. Ideal for all travelers, BHD stands out with its unique George Best dedication, honoring the legendary footballer. This guide simplifies your travel, offering everything from flight updates to dining options. Ready for a hassle-free experience? Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for more insights. Let's make your journey memorable.
iFly Tip: Ensure a smooth airport experience by following our essential airport advice.
Navigating BHD's Terminals
The airport has one terminal with a total of 16 gates. The terminal is divided into two levels: arrivals and departures. The departures level is where you will find the check-in desks, security checkpoints, and the departure gates. The arrivals level is where you will find baggage claim and the airport exit.
There are several airlines that operate out of Belfast City Airport, including Aer Lingus, British Airways, KLM, and Ryanair. These airlines use the main terminal building for their operations.
When navigating the terminal, it is important to pay attention to the flight information displays located throughout the building. These displays will provide you with up-to-date information on flight departures, gate numbers, and any delays or cancellations.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Belfast Airport is a small airport with only one terminal, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily navigate through the terminal to find the check-in desks, security, and departure gates. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to keep you occupied before your flight.
Tips from BHD Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Belfast City Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from BHD-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"Even though BHD is a small airport with just one terminal, it can get busy during peak hours. I recommend checking the flight information displays as soon as you arrive to ensure you're headed to the right gate. The displays are quite reliable and updated frequently." — Liam M., Holywood, Northern Ireland, December 2023
"For a smooth experience, head straight to security after checking in. The lines can be unpredictable, but they move quickly if you're prepared. Keep your boarding pass and ID ready to avoid any delays." — Aoife C., Bangor, Northern Ireland, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The Airport Express 600 bus is a lifesaver for budget-conscious travelers. It runs every 30 minutes and gets you to the city center in about 15 minutes. It's a great way to avoid the hassle of finding parking in Belfast." — Connor L., Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, March 2024
"If you're in a rush or have a lot of luggage, taxis are a convenient option. They’re right outside the terminal and cost about £10-£15 to the city center. Be sure to check if your hotel offers a shuttle service as well." — Niamh D., Lisburn, Northern Ireland, May 2024
Parking
"For short trips, the on-site short-term parking is very convenient, and you won't have to walk far to the terminal. Make sure to book online in advance for the best rates." — Declan K., Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, April 2024
"If you're looking for budget-friendly options, off-site parking with shuttle service is a great choice. The shuttles run frequently and are reliable, making it easy to get to the terminal without the high cost." — Siobhan O., Belfast, Northern Ireland, June 2024
Inside the Airport
"For a quick snack, Costa Coffee in the main concourse is perfect. If you have more time, The Lagan Bar & Kitchen offers a nice spot to relax with traditional Irish dishes before your flight." — Eoin F., Dundonald, Northern Ireland, August 2024
"Don't miss out on Aunt Sandra's Candy Factory for some sweet treats. It's a great way to bring a little taste of Belfast with you on your journey." — Aisling P., Newtownards, Northern Ireland, September 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"To avoid delays, always check your flight status via the airline app before leaving for the airport. It helps to know if there are any changes to your flight schedule in advance." — Rory J., Belfast, Northern Ireland, October 2024
"Arriving at least two hours before your flight is key, especially during the holiday season. This gives you ample time to go through security and maybe even enjoy some shopping or dining without feeling rushed." — Ciara H., Lisburn, Northern Ireland, November 2024
iFly Tip: Understand the technical aspects of your flight with our takeoff to landing explanation.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Belfast City Airport, picking up and dropping off passengers is a breeze. The airport has a designated drop-off zone located directly outside the terminal building, making it easy for passengers to access the terminal with their luggage. However, it's important to note that curbside parking is not allowed in this area, and vehicles must not be left unattended. If you need to park your vehicle, there are several car parks available at the airport, with both short-term and long-term options.
If you're picking up passengers, the airport has a convenient cell-phone waiting area where you can wait for your passengers to arrive. This area is located just a short distance from the terminal building and provides a free waiting area for up to 30 minutes. This allows you to avoid circling the airport and wasting fuel while waiting for your passengers to arrive. Once your passengers have arrived, you can easily pick them up from the designated pick-up zone outside the terminal building.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at Belfast Airport, there are several options available to travelers. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking in their on-site car parks, with a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets.
For those who are picking up or dropping off passengers, there is a convenient cell phone waiting area located just a short distance from the terminal building. This area allows drivers to wait for their passengers to arrive without having to circle the airport or pay for parking.
Handicapped parking is available in all of the on-site car parks, with designated spaces located close to the terminal building for easy access. If you require special assistance, the airport recommends contacting them in advance to arrange for any necessary accommodations.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near BHD. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and can often be a more affordable option for longer trips.
Transportation Options
The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:
- Car Rentals: Major car rental providers such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz are located on-site at the airport. This allows visitors to easily rent a car and explore the city and surrounding areas at their own pace. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
- Taxis: Taxi services are readily available at the airport, with a designated drop-off area located outside the terminal building. Fares are metered and vary depending on the destination, but visitors can expect to pay around £10-£15 for a ride into the city center. Booking a taxi ahead of time during off-peak hours can help avoid delays.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available with pickup areas located outside the terminal building. These services offer a more affordable transportation option, but it's important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
- Airport Shuttles: Several companies offer door-to-door shuttle services to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination and number of passengers. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
- Public Transportation: The airport is served by several bus routes, including the Airport Express 600 which runs every 30 minutes and provides direct service to the city center. Fares are affordable, with a single journey costing around £2.50. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver or online.
iFly Tip: Learn how TSA PreCheck can help you skip the long lines and security hassles.
Airport Hotels
Looking for the perfect place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered! Our comprehensive guide provides a variety of hotel options to suit every traveler's needs. From luxury suites with breathtaking city views to quaint garden properties, we have something for everyone. Explore our the airport Hotels for a comfortable and convenient stay. Don't miss out on our top picks for accommodation, all located within easy reach of the airport and the city's must-see attractions.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
BHD offers a range of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, grab a sandwich or pastry at the Costa Coffee located in the main concourse. For a sit-down meal, head to The Lagan Bar & Kitchen, which offers traditional Irish cuisine and a selection of beers and spirits. If you're in the mood for something sweet, try the handmade chocolates at Aunt Sandra's Candy Factory, located in the departures lounge.
When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of options to choose from. For duty-free shopping, visit World Duty Free in the departures lounge, where you can find a variety of cosmetics, fragrances, and alcohol. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, check out the Irish Linen Centre & Museum shop, which offers a range of products made from traditional Irish linen. For last-minute travel essentials, there's a WHSmith located in the main concourse.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at BHD Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Belfast City Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal. Simply connect to the "Belfast Airport" network and follow the instructions to access the internet.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the Lost Property Office is located in the main terminal building. You can contact them by phone or email to report your lost item and arrange for collection.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Belfast City Airport features a dedicated children's play area located in the departures lounge. It offers a range of toys and games to keep your little ones entertained before your flight.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers a range of services to assist passengers with special needs. You can contact the airport in advance to arrange assistance with mobility, visual or hearing impairments, or any other special needs you may have.
- ATM: An ATM is available in the main terminal building, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located in the main terminal building. If you require more serious medical attention, the airport can arrange for an ambulance to take you to a nearby hospital.
- Airport Lounges: Belfast City Airport features the Aspire Lounge, located after security in the departures area. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating. It also provides a quiet space with workstations and newspapers/magazines for passengers looking to relax or work before their flight.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At BHD, there are several ways to get flight status updates.
One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information about flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own mobile apps that allow passengers to track their flight status and receive push notifications about any changes.
In addition to mobile apps, passengers can also receive flight status updates through text, email, and push notifications. To sign up for these alerts, simply visit your airline's website and enter your flight information.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at BHD 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
- Location: Belfast City Airport (BHD) is located in Northern Ireland, just 3 miles from the city center.
- Terminals: The airport features one terminal handling both domestic and international flights.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include Aer Lingus, British Airways, and KLM. For a full list of airlines, visit the BHD Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Belfast City Airport handles approximately 2.5 million passengers annually, averaging around 6,800 passengers per day.
- Daily Flights: The airport operates around 70 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from BHD are London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
- Hub Status: Belfast City Airport serves as a hub for Flybe, Aer Lingus, and British Airways.
Airport History
The airport, also known as George Best Belfast City Airport, is an airport located in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It was named after the famous footballer George Best who was born in Belfast. The airport was opened in 1937 and has since undergone several changes and upgrades to become the modern airport it is today.
Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1937 - Belfast Airport is opened as a civilian airport.
- 1941-1945 - During World War II, the airport was used by the Royal Air Force as a training base for pilots.
- 1983 - The airport was renamed BHD in honor of the city's 1981 Lord Mayor, Sir George Clark, who had died earlier that year.
- 1994 - A new terminal building was opened, which increased the airport's capacity to handle more passengers.
- 2006 - The airport was renamed George Best BHD Airport in honor of the famous footballer who was born in Belfast.
- 2015 - A major redevelopment project was completed, which included a new security area, departure lounge, and retail and food outlets.
- 2020 - Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport experienced a significant decrease in passenger numbers, leading to the suspension of several routes and a reduction in staff.
The airport has played an important role in the aviation history of Northern Ireland and continues to provide a vital link between Belfast and other destinations in the UK and Europe.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Belfast City Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: BHD
- Airport Website
- Phone: +44 28 9093 9093
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: George Best Belfast City Airport, Belfast BT3 9JH, United Kingdom
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Belfast City Airport Q&A
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