VINCI Airports has launched a £100m five-year investment plan designed to improve Belfast International Airport’s operational efficiency, passenger experience and environmental performance.
Phase one of the programme is underway, with the construction of a new security building adjacent to the current terminal building. This ultra-modern £25m facility will transform the passenger security experience by implementing the required Standard 3 X-ray screening equipment, meaning passengers will no longer have to remove liquids or electronics from their luggage. The new building will be operational by summer 2024.
VINCI Airports’ investment plan will also revamp existing facilities, improve airside departure area with additional departure gates and extra seating. The retail offering will include new catering and shopping outlets and the Border Force area will also be extended over the next five years.
As a long-term partner, VINCI Airports is committed to sustainably developing the airport and increasing its environmental performance
According to VINCI Airports, these investments will improve the airport’s operational efficiency and quality of service. The initiative will create an estimated 400 jobs with local construction firms for the duration of the build.
Speaking in Belfast at the launch of the project, Nicolas Notebaert, CEO of VINCI Concessions and president of VINCI Airports, said: “VINCI Airports’ investment will support Belfast International Airport’s positive dynamic by strongly improving the passenger experience. The airport plays a pivotal role for aviation, tourism and the wider local economy. As a long-term partner, VINCI Airports is committed to sustainably developing the airport and increasing its environmental performance.”
New solar farm
VINCI Airports has also announced the launch of a new 26MWp solar farm on the airport site, generating 22.4MWh of electricity to be injected into the grid, and saving 12,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. The farm will be developed, financed, built, and operated by VINCI Concessions’ photovoltaic subsidiary SunMind. This initiative forms part of VINCI Airports’ global environmental action plan, which aims to reach 50% emission reductions by 2030 and net zero by 2050 and to contribute to the decarbonisation of the territories where it operates.
A member of the VINCI Airports network since 2018, Belfast International Airport has already cut its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 44 % its emissions by applying VINCI Airports’ environmental solutions, the operator said.
Image: VINCI Airports
