Belfast International Airport
Belfast, United Kingdom · Since 1963
Last updated:
About BFS
Belfast International Airport is Northern Ireland's principal airport, located 13 miles northwest of Belfast city centre near the town of Antrim. Handling over 6 million passengers annually, it serves as the main gateway to Northern Ireland for international travelers. The airport offers flights to UK domestic destinations, European holiday spots, and transatlantic routes. It is well connected to Belfast city by express bus services.
Terminals
Main Terminal
Single-terminal airport with a modern departures area featuring shops and dining. The terminal was significantly refurbished in recent years with improved security processing and passenger facilities.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at BFS
Getting There & Away
Taxi
$40-$55 to Belfast city centre
25-35 minutes to city center
Public Transport
$10 (Airport Express 300 bus)
30-40 minutes to city center
Popular Destinations
Parking at BFS
Short-stay and long-stay car parks available. Pre-booking online strongly recommended for significant savings....
Short Stay Car Park
Long Stay Car Park
Premium Parking
Airport Lounges
Aspire Lounge
Main Terminal
The only lounge at Belfast International offering complimentary food, drinks, WiFi, and newspapers. A welcome retreat from the terminal for departing passengers.
Causeway Lounge
Main Terminal
Budget-friendly lounge option with complimentary soft drinks, snacks, and WiFi. Named after the nearby Giant's Causeway.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Maldron Hotel Belfast International Airport
2-minute drive from terminal, shuttle available
Comfortable hotel with free airport shuttle. Irish-owned chain with good restaurant and bar. Popular with early morning flyers.
Park Plaza Belfast Airport
5 minutes by shuttle from terminal
Modern hotel near the airport with complimentary shuttle service. Features a restaurant, bar, gym, and meeting rooms. Day rooms available from $55.
Food & Dining
Costa Coffee
Coffee/Sandwiches
Main Terminal (Airside)
Popular UK coffee chain with fresh sandwiches, pastries, and excellent coffee. Quick and convenient for grab-and-go.
4:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Frankie & Benny's
Italian-American
Main Terminal (Airside)
Family-friendly Italian-American restaurant serving pizzas, pastas, burgers, and breakfasts. Reliable portions and quality.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
The Bar & Grill
British/Pub
Main Terminal (Airside)
Traditional pub-style restaurant serving Ulster fry breakfasts, pub classics, and a good selection of local beers and spirits.
5:30 AM - last departure
Car Rental
Enterprise
Terminal arrivals hall
Located inside the terminal for easy pick-up. Enterprise also operates the National brand at the same counter.
Hertz
Terminal arrivals hall
In-terminal desk with vehicles parked in the adjacent car park. Pre-book for guaranteed vehicle availability.
Europcar
Terminal arrivals hall
Good selection of vehicles for exploring Northern Ireland. Remember to drive on the left side of the road.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Aspire Lounge Relaxation
Spend your layover in the Aspire Lounge with complimentary food, premium drinks, and WiFi in a comfortable, quiet environment.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Explore Belfast City
Take the Airport Express 300 bus to Belfast (30 minutes) and explore the Titanic Quarter, Cathedral Quarter, St George's Market, and enjoy traditional Irish pub culture.
Visit the Giant's Causeway
Rent a car and drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Giant's Causeway (60 miles, 75 minutes each way). See the famous hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. Entry fee applies.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: UK Type G
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: From $7/item per day
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: GBP (British Pound Sterling)
- Exchange: Travelex in the main departures area
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Tipping: Tipping is optional in Northern Ireland. Round up taxi fares or leave 10% at restaurants if service was good.
Limited exchange options at the airport. Consider exchanging currency in Belfast city centre for better rates.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking area outside the terminal entrance
Insider Tips
Belfast International is sometimes called Aldergrove by locals. Do not confuse with George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) which is closer to the city centre. Allow time for the bus journey to Belfast.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free WiFi, Shops, Restaurants, Lounges, Currency Exchange, Left Luggage, Prayer Room, Kids Play Area
Official Website
Phone
+44-28-9448-4848
Traveler Reviews
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Compare with Nearby Airports
See how BFS compares to other major airports in the region.
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Explore Airport Rankings
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