Belfast City Airport has revealed plans that could make it the first airport on the island of Ireland to be connected by rail, as part of a major expansion proposal unveiled today.

The airport's draft Master Plan 2040 outlines ambitious growth targets, including increasing passenger numbers from current levels to 7 million annually by 2040.

The proposal suggests this expansion could attract £200 million in private investment and support over 23,000 jobs across Northern Ireland. 

Central to the plan is a proposed rail halt that would link the airport directly to Belfast city centre via the existing Bangor line.

The airport has partnered with Translink to study the feasibility of this rail connection.

"We want more passengers to arrive by public transport and leave their cars at home, hence a focus on greener journeys within the Master Plan," said Matthew Hall, Chief Executive of Belfast City Airport.

The expansion plans come as aviation analysts predict air travel demand across Ireland will double to 90 million passengers yearly by 2040. 

To accommodate this growth, Belfast City Airport is seeking to increase its annual aircraft movement cap from 48,000 to 61,000. 

The proposal includes extended terminal facilities, improved surface access, and potential complementary developments such as hotels and electric vehicle charging stations. The airport plans to double its workforce to over 2,200 employees.

However, the expansion faces practical considerations. The airport would explore limited flexibility for evening flights after 21:30, though not beyond the current 23:59 limit for delayed services.

All growth would remain within existing noise contour limits to protect local communities.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill welcomed the proposals, calling them "great ambition and a really bold vision for the future."

The airport is now seeking public feedback on the draft plan before publishing final proposals early next year.