The Belfast International Airport located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK, is currently undergoing an expansion of the terminal building, to enhance operational efficiency and security measures at the airport.
The airport operator, VINCI Airport, is investing £100m ($121.81m) in the five-year expansion plan.
Recommended White Papers
Recommended Buyers Guides
The first phase of the expansion project includes the construction of a new security building equipped with state-of-the-art screening technology with an investment of £25m.
The initiative is a response to the UK Department for Transport’s mandate for all UK airports to install 3D scanning technology by June 2024. The new security building is set to be operational by Summer 2024.
The project is expected to create 400 jobs during the construction phase. It aims to position the airport as a key gateway for passengers.
Belfast International Airport terminal expansion details
The Belfast International Airport terminal expansion project includes the addition of a two-storey security building developed as an extension on the north-east side of the existing terminal building.
The new security building will accommodate advanced scanning technology and other facilities to implement the required Standard 3 X-ray screening equipment mandated by the Department for Transport.
The 3D scanning technology will provide security staff with clear three-dimensional images of passengers’ belongings, enhancing the security screening process for passengers.
Additionally, the expansion project involves revamping existing facilities, modernising the airport facade, enhancing the airside departure area with additional gates and seating, and expanding the shopping offerings with new catering and retail outlets.
The border force area will also be extended over the next five years, along with the addition of more parking facilities.
Equipment installed
The new security building at the Belfast International Airport will be equipped with threat detection and screening technologies provider Smiths Detection’s HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX X-ray scanners for carry-on baggage.
The 3D imaging capabilities of the HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX scanners will allow passengers to keep liquids and large electronics in their carry-on baggage during security screening.
In addition to enhancing security efficiency, the scanner is known for its low noise levels and zero vibration, which will contribute to a smoother security screening process at the airport.
The security building will also be equipped with the intelligent iLane A20SC automatic tray return system (ATRS), which will ensure a continuous flow of trays and streamline the passenger experience.
Financing
M&G Investments, an investment management company, is providing £30min financing over 15 years to fund the terminal expansion project within a larger financing package totalling £100m.
Sustainability features
The terminal expansion project includes the installation of a 26MWp solar farm on the airport site.
The solar farm will have a capacity of 22.4GWh annually and will be developed, financed and operated by VINCI Concessions’ photovoltaic subsidiary SunMind.
It is expected to save 12,500 tonnes (t) of carbon dioxide emissions a year, contributing to the airport’s decarbonisation efforts.
Contractors involved
Matt MacDonald, an engineering, development and management consultancy, is responsible for the architecture, civil and structural, and mechanical and electrical design of the new security building.
Smiths Detection was awarded the contract to supply its HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX carry-on baggage X-ray scanners and iLane A20SC ATRS in April 2024.
Piperhill Construction, a construction company, is involved in the construction of the new security building and additional works within the arrivals hall, including the development of a temporary passenger exit.
Gravis Planning, an integrated planning and strategic communications consultancy, provided planning advisory and communications support for the project.
The company drafted the planning application and oversaw its advancement through the planning process, offering guidance on various planning matters.
Fabricat Ireland, a steel fabrication and erection company, is supplying more than 500t of steel for the expansion project.
Antrim Electrical & Mechanical Engineers, a construction service company, is responsible for carrying out all the mechanical and electrical systems installation works within the new security hall as well as the existing terminal.
HSU Construction, a full-service construction company, is installing metal partitions and suspended ceilings within the new security building.
Hogg Decorators, a painting and decorating company, K2 Scaffolding, a scaffolding company, ChandlerKBS, an independent consultancy services provider, and Crown Industries, an engineering solutions provider, are also involved in the Belfast International Airport terminal expansion project.
