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Frequently Asked Questions

General Airport Information

Security

  • Can liquids be taken through security?
    Yes, liquids, creams, pastes, gels, and aerosols can be taken through security providing they are 2 litres or less.
     
    These items no longer need to be placed in a single transparent and sealable bag and passengers can keep them in their cabin baggage.

    Exceptions will be made for baby food or baby milk. This exception is only permitted if you are travelling with a baby or infant. Please carry only what you need for your journey and to assist security screening, please do not carry these items in a flask.

    Liquid baby food and liquid medicines will undergo checks before being permitted to be carried.

    Please note, for returning and connecting journeys, passengers are advised to check the advice of other airports where these measures may not yet have been implemented.
  • Can I take medication / syringes on board?
    Yes, medication and medical sharps can be taken onboard in hand luggage providing passengers can provide documentary proof of authenticity, such as a prescription or letter from a medical practitioner.
  • Travelling with a Medical Device? Here’s What to Expect at Security

    Airports aim to ensure all passengers have a positive experience throughout the airport and are treated with dignity and care at the security gateway. Passengers and their baggage will need to go through airport security before reaching the departure area.

    For this purpose, most UK airports are directed by the Department for Transport (DfT) to use security (body) scanners to screen departing passengers from the UK.

    Passengers who are fitted with external and internal medical devices1, and prosthetic devices2 are encouraged to inform the Security Officer. If the Security Officer assesses that a passenger wearing or fitted with a medical device is not suitable for screening by the security scanner, then an alternative search process will be used to suit the circumstances the passenger has declared. The screener may ask to see the medical device to complete the screening process. For such passengers, an airport may, depending on its local policies, offer for, or require, this screening to be carried out in a private area (not on the lane), so that a sufficient search can be completed whilst protecting the dignity of the passenger. 

    Any passenger who elects to opt out of a security scanner search for non-medical reasons is required to have an ‘enhanced search in private’. It will likely add additional time to your journey and will involve a more in-depth hand search in a private search area. 

    If a passenger refuses to be screened in accordance with DfT requirements and the instructions of the Security Officer, they will not be permitted access to the restricted part of the airport beyond security and will not be able to board a flight.

    1 - Included but not limited to: Medical devices worn on or in the body: Continuous Glucose Monitoring systems
    (CGMs), insulin pumps, living with stoma bags, cochlear implants, feeding tubes, defibrillators, and artificial
    pacemakers. (This is not an exhaustive list).

    2 - Included but not limited to: Prosthetic devices are replacement body parts widely used in modern medical
    treatment. They may be fitted internally or externally and include replacement lenses in the eye following
    cataract surgery, artificial heart valves, hip replacements and breast implants. External prostheses include
    those used in cosmetic surgery or following breast cancer treatment, and artificial limbs. (This is not an
    exhaustive list).

  • Do I have to go through the body scanner?
    All passengers will be required to undertake a body scan.
     
    If you are unable to walk or go through the body scanner, please make the security staff aware who will discuss alternative means of screening.
     
     
     
     
  • How do the new body scanners work?
    The security scanner uses safe millimeter wave technology to identify anomalies on the body.
     
  • Is it safe to go through airport body scanners when pregnant?
    The Department for Transport considers that there are no known health effects from the scanners in use at Belfast City Airport. If a pregnant passenger feels uncomfortable proceeding through our body scanners, a private search can be requested as an alternative.
  • Is it safe to go through airport body scanners with a pacemaker?
    The Department for Transport considers that there are no known health effects from the scanners in use at Belfast City Airport.
  • Can knitting needles be taken through security?
    Yes, knitting needles can be taken through security and on board in hand luggage.
  • Can I take sports equipment onboard as hand luggage?
    Sporting items such as cues, racquets, bats and clubs will not be permitted as hand luggage. These oversized items and other bags over 56cm, x 45cm x 25cm will need to be processed separately and placed in the hold of the aircraft.
  • Can I buy a fast track security pass?
    Yes, fast track security passes are available to buy directly on our website: Book Fast Track Security
  • What changes will be introduced with the new security screening technology?
    The new security screening technology will enable passengers to keep liquids, gels, and pastes (up to 2 litres) and large electronic devices in their cabin baggage as they complete security checks at the airport.

    Please note, for returning and connecting journeys, passengers are advised to check the advice of other airports where these measures may not yet have been implemented.
  • Will I require a private search at security?
    Private searches can be requested by passengers as an alternative to airport body scanners. Private searches at Belfast City Airport take place in a designated room at the back of our central search area. Witnesses may accompany passengers and security personnel in the designated private search area.
     
    Should you have any further queries regarding security procedures at Belfast City Airport, visit our Security webpage.
  • Will you be able to recognise me from my image?
    No images are created or stored by the body scanner.
     
     
  • Can I carry frozen food and liquids?
    All frozen food and drinks are prohibited in your carry-on luggage.
     
  • What are the current restrictions on hand luggage?
    You can find full details on what’s allowed in your hand luggage here: Hand luggage restrictions at UK airports: Overview - GOV.UK
     

Flight Information

  • What time does check-in open at?
    Check-in will open 2 hours before your flight departure for most airlines at Belfast City Airport. Please check directly with your airline before travelling to the Airport.
  • What type of I.D. can I use?
    The most common forms of identification are passport, driving license and I.D. cards. However, please do check with your airline directly before travelling to the airport on what types of I.D. are acceptable. Failure to show a valid form of identification will mean you cannot fly.
  • What do I do if my flight is cancelled?
    If you are already through to the Departures Lounge at Belfast City Airport and you receive a flight cancellation notification, make your way down to arrivals and back through to the airline check-in desks. Airline handling agents will be on hand to reschedule your flight or provide alternative arrangements.

    If your flight is cancelled before arriving at Belfast City Airport, contact your airline directly via telephone, email or social media for further assistance.
  • What do I do if my luggage is lost / damaged?
    If your luggage is lost or missing when you arrive at Belfast City Airport, please contact your airline directly via telephone, email or social media for further assistance.

Facilities

Special Assistance

  • Does Belfast City Airport provide Special Assistance to passengers?
    Special Assistance can be booked with your airline, travel agent or tour operator up to 48 hours before your departure date. 
     
    Should you have any further queries on travelling with a disability or hidden disability at Belfast City Airport, visit our Special Assistance webpage.

    AccessAble and Belfast City Airport have worked in collaboration to create a detailed guide to assist you in getting around the airport. The app contains all of AccessAble’s guides for Belfast City Airport and is useful when moving around the airport on the go. Click here for more information.

Lost Property

To / From Belfast City Airport

  • How far is Belfast City Airport from Belfast city centre?
    Belfast City Airport is just 5 minutes from Belfast city centre and has excellent transport links for passengers wishing to explore what the city has to offer.
  • Can I get a taxi at the airport?
    Yes, our official taxi partner Value Cabs has a taxi rank located at the front of the terminal building with cars on standby throughout the day.
  • Is public transport easily accessible to / from the airport?
    Belfast City Airport has excellent public transport links, including regular bus services to Belfast Grand Central Station from which passengers can travel onwards to regions across Northern Ireland. Passengers can also travel to / from the airport via train, with Sydenham Rail Halt located next to the Airport.
  • Is there a courtesy bus to and from the terminal?

    A courtesy bus is available on request. Just use the intercom at the Translink bus stop—Located to your left as you exit the terminal.

    From Sydenham 
    Coming from Sydenham? After crossing the footbridge, you’ll find an intercom at the bus stop. Use it to request the courtesy bus, and it will take you straight to the terminal.

    Proof of train travel may be requested.

Media Enquiries

Car Park

  • Are Blue Badge Holders exempt from the £4 drop off and pick up charge?
    Yes, in the Express Drop-Off & Pick-Up Area, you may stay for up to 10 minutes. 
    If you need more time, Blue Badge holders can avail of up to 2 hours’ free parking to drop off or pick up passengers in our Short Stay Car Park.  Additional details can be found in our Blue Badge Parking section.
  • Do you have disabled parking spaces?
    We offer Blue Badge parking options across all three car parks at Belfast City Airport, with designated spaces available in each. Please note that while you cannot reserve a specific parking space, you must reserve the specific car park you wish to use, as bookings are not transferable between car parks. When you arrive, we kindly ask that you display your Blue Badge clearly in your vehicle while parked in one of the designated spaces. 
  • If I park in a Blue Badge bay, can I leave a photocopy of the original badge?
    Yes, you can leave a photocopy of your original Blue Badge if you need to take it with you.
  • I have mobility issues - how do I book assistance from the car parks?

    Assistance to the terminal and onward to your flight can be requested via the intercom located in the Disability Assistance Call Point Shelters in the Long Stay and Premier Car Park. 
     
    Short Stay Car Park customers: if you require assistance, please make your way to the Car Park Assistance Office located in the Express Drop-Off and Pick-Up area, where you will find an assistance call point. If you are unable to reach the Car Park Assistance Office, please call 028 9093 5247 to speak directly with a member of our Special Assistance team. 

    Passengers with reduced mobility and/or hidden disabilities are entitled and encouraged to use the Special Assistance service at Belfast City Airport for getting to and from the terminal building. 

    Passengers requiring assistance should book this with their airline, travel agent or tour operator at least 48 hours in advance. This information is then transmitted to both the departure and arrival airports. 

  • Where do I drop someone off / pick someone up?

    You can drop off and pick up in the Long Stay Car Park, Express Drop-Off and Pick-Up area, and the Short Stay Car Park. 

  • Are there any restrictions on the type of vehicle I can bring to the car park?
    Our car parks accommodate standard family cars, SUVs, small vans, and motorcycles. We do not accommodate large commercial vehicles, caravans, or vehicles with trailers attached.
  • How many car parks does Belfast City Airport have on-site?

    Belfast City Airport has 3 car parks for drivers to choose from – Short Stay, Long Stay, and Premier. This is in addition to the Express Drop-Off and Pick-Up area.  Airport Parking | Belfast City Airport 

  • Can I leave my bike in the Airport car parks?
    Yes, bicycle bays are located in the Premier Car Park.
  • Can I pre-book parking?
    Yes, pre-booking parking is advised and can be easily booked on our website: Airport Parking | Belfast City Airport
  • How close to my date/time of travel can I pre-book car parking online?
    The system will accept pre-bookings up to 1 hour before your visit. 
    All car park bookings are subject to availability, and the airport reserves the right to withdraw availability at its discretion for any given date.
  • Do you offer any discounts for parking?
    To be kept up to date on any parking offers and discounts, please sign up to our newsletter or follow us on social media.
  • Can I amend my car park booking?

    Yes, you can amend your car park booking via the Manage a Booking page, up to 2 hours prior to your visit.

    Search Booking | Belfast City Airport

  • Can I cancel my car park booking?

    Yes, you can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before it begins and receive a full refund.

     

  • Can I extend my car park booking?

    Yes, you can extend your car park booking after it has started via the Manage a Booking page. Please note that extensions are charged at the daily rate.

     

  • Do I get a refund if I cancel my car park online booking?
    Yes, you can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before it begins and receive a full refund.
  • Can I enter the car park earlier than my selected car park entry time?
    Yes, customers can arrive up to 1 hour in advance of the selected entry time of their car park booking. The car park entry barrier will recognise your vehicle and provide access to the designated car park. 
  • How do I know my car park booking has been confirmed?
    Once you have completed the booking process, you will receive a confirmation email with a reservation number. If you don't receive an email confirmation shortly after you complete the booking process, please get in touch with us online as soon as possible, and a member of our customer service team will arrange for your confirmation to be resent. 
  • I have pre-booked parking, what do I do when I arrive?

    Our car parks operate with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras for all pre-booked customers. 

    On arrival and departure: 
    • Follow the signage on site to the car park you have booked. 
    • Drive up to the barrier. 
    • The camera will read your vehicle registration. 
    • The barrier will lift. 
    • If the barrier does not lift, do not take a ticket — scan the QR code on the confirmation email (either printed or from a mobile device). 
    • Assistance is available through the intercom if required. 

  • I haven’t pre-booked online, can I still use the car park facilities?
    Yes, both our Short Stay and Long Stay Car Parks allow passengers to drive up and enter on the day. The best rates are, however, available online via our website: Airport Parking | Belfast City Airport
  • What if I return later than the date/time on the booking?
    Yes, you can extend your car park booking after it has started via the Manage a Booking page. Please note that extensions are charged at the daily rate.
  • What should I do if my flight is delayed?

    If your flight is delayed and you’ve pre-booked parking, simply scan your QR code at a pay station or exit barrier. Any additional charge will display on the exit barrier or pay station, which you must pay at the time.

  • What if I’ve pre-booked and my licence plate has not been recognised at the entry/exit barrier?
    Should the car park barrier not recognise your license plate, please scan the QR code on the confirmation email. If that doesn’t raise the barrier, please press the intercom to speak with a member of the team. Do not press for a ticket. 
  • Where can I pay for my parking? Where are the pay stations located?

    You can pay for parking by tapping your card where indicated at the entrance barrier. You must do the same on exit using the same card. Alternatively, pay stations are available in the terminal building and the Express Drop-Off & Pick-Up area. 

  • What is a no-parking zone? How will I know if I’m in one?

    A no-parking zone is anywhere outside of our designated car parks. 

     

  • Who do I contact with queries on my parking charge?
    The issue and management of all parking charges issued as a result of stopping in our no-stopping zones are handled through an external provider, Vehicle Control Services Limited – please use the contact details provided on your parking charge for any questions, queries, or appeals.
  • Who do I contact with a data subject access request?

    Belfast City Airport complies with the ICO's guidance on SARs and will conduct a review of the electronic information that we hold about you. We may have follow up questions to confirm your identity. 

    If your request is specifically regarding the information held regarding a traffic enforcement order, please forward your query to [email protected]   

    Belfast City Airport is a controller of this personal information, however it does not directly store, manage, or have access to, this personal information.  

    More information can be found on our website's privacy policy - https://www.belfastcityairport.com/Privacy 

  • Will I be charged for dropping someone off / picking someone up?
    Charges will apply in the Express Drop Off and Pick Up area and in the Short Stay Car Park. However drivers can still avail of free drop off and pick up in our Long Stay Car Park.

    Blue Badge holders can avail of up to 2 hours free in our Short Stay Car Park for dropping off or picking up passengers. Further detail can be found in the Blue Badge Parking section.

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