Belfast International Airport has unveiled its new dedicated accessible parking area that offers convenience to passengers who require additional assistance.
The dedicated parking area offers 236 purpose-designed, fully accessible Blue Badge bays that have replaced the standard parking spaces.
It is situated to the left-hand side of the terminal building, close to the airport’s entrance, offering pedestrians a direct route to the terminal building.
The dedicated accessible parking area minimises encounters with traffic compared to previous arrangements. The area includes dedicated waiting zones and call points, with the special assistance service provided by OCS available to support passengers upon arrival.
The decision to add the accessible parking area follows from growing passenger demand and its need to guarantee the availability of spaces for passengers who need additional assistance.
The airport underwent 18 months of intensive consultation with the consumer council to ensure the voices of accessibility stakeholders were heard throughout the process.
Chris Cunningham, Car Park Manager said,
“This has been a major investment for Belfast International Airport, and one that reflects the importance we place on accessibility and inclusion. We are proud to offer a dedicated solution, that not only that meets current demand but is designed with the flexibility to grow alongside our passengers’ needs. We are undergoing a significant transformation right across the airport site and we are continuously improving our facilities to ensure a smooth and accessible journey for all.
Michelle Kelly, Head of Transport, Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, said,
“This initiative reflects Belfast International Airport’s ongoing commitment to making travel as simple and inclusive as possible, particularly for Blue Badge holders and passengers with hidden disabilities.”
Sam Bell MBE, Member of IMTAC and Chair of the airport’s Accessibility Forum said,
“It is great to see that the airport has taken on board the views of many of their customers and created a fantastic, purpose-built facility, with room to grow. With dedicated areas and call points this is a very welcome addition to the airport facilities. We will continue to work with the airport to further improve facilities for passengers with disabilities, including consideration of our recommendation to provide a covered walkway from the parking area to the airport building.”
