George Best Belfast City Airport
BHDNamed after Northern Ireland's greatest footballer, Belfast City Airport is the most centrally located airport in Northern Ireland, ideal for business and domestic travel.
George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) is located just 3 miles from Belfast city centre in the Sydenham area of east Belfast. It handles around 2.5 million passengers a year and operates a single compact terminal. The airport is named after George Best, Northern Ireland's most celebrated footballer. Belfast City primarily serves UK domestic routes, with frequent services to London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and other UK cities. Its central location makes it the preferred choice for business travellers and those heading to Belfast itself.
The Terminal
Belfast City operates a single compact terminal that is one of the quickest to navigate of any UK airport. Check-in, security, and departures are all on one level. The airport's small size means security queues are typically short.
Departures
Check-in desks and bag-drop are on the ground floor. Online check-in is available with most carriers. Security and the airside departure lounge are on the same level, with a small selection of shops and a café.
Arrivals
Arrivals are on the ground floor. Baggage reclaim is quick due to the airport's small size. The Sydenham railway station is a short walk from the terminal.
Airlines serving this airport
Getting to Belfast City Airport
Belfast City Airport is exceptionally well located, with a railway station adjacent to the terminal and good bus connections to the city centre.
Train from Sydenham Station
Sydenham railway station is a short walk from the terminal, with regular services to Belfast Central in around 5 minutes and Belfast Great Victoria Street in around 10 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day. A fast and convenient option for passengers heading to the city centre.
5 min to Belfast Central · Frequent · From ~£2 single
Airport Bus (600 Airlink)
The 600 Airlink bus runs between Belfast City Airport and Belfast city centre (Europa Bus Centre) in around 15–20 minutes. Services run frequently throughout the day. Tickets can be bought online or on the bus.
15–20 min to city centre · Frequent · From ~£3 single
Driving & Drop-off
Belfast City Airport is accessed via the A2 Sydenham Bypass. Drop-off charges apply at the terminal. A free set-down area is available on the approach road.
A2 Sydenham Bypass · Drop-off charges apply · 3 miles from city centre
Parking at Belfast City Airport
Belfast City offers short stay and long stay parking. Pre-booking is recommended for the best prices.
Short Stay
Car park directly adjacent to the terminal. Ideal for quick drop-offs and pick-ups. The most expensive option per day.
Long Stay
A short shuttle bus ride from the terminal. Significantly cheaper for trips of more than a day. Pre-book well in advance online.
Meet & Greet
Drive to the terminal, hand your keys to a valet, and collect your car on return. Convenient for families and those with heavy luggage.
Facilities & Lounges
Belfast City's terminal is compact but well appointed for a domestic-focused airport.
Airport Lounges
A lounge is available airside. Check the airport website for current lounge access options and Priority Pass acceptance.
Dining & Bars
Airside dining includes a café, bar, and a range of grab-and-go options. The selection is proportionate to the airport's size.
Shopping
A duty free shop and WHSmith are available airside. A compact but functional retail offer.
Families & Accessibility
Baby changing facilities are available. Assisted travel services can be arranged in advance through the airport or your airline.
Tips for Travelling Through Belfast City
The train from Sydenham station is the fastest way to reach Belfast city centre — just 5 minutes to Belfast Central. The station is a short walk from the terminal and trains run frequently.
Look out for the George Best memorabilia and tribute displays in the terminal. The airport is a celebration of Northern Ireland's most famous footballer.
Security at Belfast City is quick and queues are rarely long. Allow at least 90 minutes before departure to be comfortable.
Belfast City is closer to the city centre than Belfast International and is better for domestic UK routes. If you are flying to Europe or on a budget carrier, Belfast International may have more options.
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