The owner of Belfast International Airport is investing £100 million in a five-year expansion plan which will include a new security building and solar farm.

Nicolas Notebaert, CEO of VINCI Concessions and President of VINCI Airports said, the investment will increase the airport's operational efficiency and improve passenger experience and environmental performance.

Phase one is currently underway with the construction of a new security building next to the terminal building. The £25m facility will include the installation of Standard 3 Xray screening equipment, which means that passengers will no longer have to remove liquids or electronics from their luggage.

The investment plan will also revamp existing facilities and improve the airside departure area with additional departure gates and extra seating. New retail and catering outlets will be built and the immigration area will also be extended over the next five years.

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The plan has also announced a 26 MWp new solar farm on the airport site which will generate 22.4 GWh of electricity and save 12,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.

The project will create an estimated 400 jobs with local construction firms during the build.

Nicolas Notebaert, CEO of VINCI Concessions & 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 develop the airport and increase its environmental performance".

Graham Keddie, Managing Director at Belfast International Airport, stated: "Vinci's commitment to Northern Ireland has been unwavering and their determination to invest such an amount demonstrates the belief they have in the airport, it’s team and potential for future growth. As we mark our 60th anniversary at the end of this month, today’s announcement sets out a clear vision of how we intend to provide a long-term strategic vision for the Airport, our passengers, and the wider region."

The new building will be operational by Summer 2024.