Skip to main content

Main Terminal Building - Check-In

George Best Belfast City Airport, Airport Road, Belfast, BT3 9JH

View Accessibility Symbols

Accessibility Symbols

For more information about what these symbols mean, view our Accessibility Symbols Guide.

Close this popup window.

Access Guide

Show Easy Read

Getting Here

  • By Road View
    • The airport is conveniently located on the A2 Sydenham Bypass road between Belfast and Holywood, just 5 minutes outside of Belfast’s bustling city centre. Those approaching Belfast from the South on the M1 or from the North on M2 should follow the signs to Belfast City Airport, leading to the A2 Sydenham Bypass via the M3.
      Postcode for satellite navigation: BT3 9JH.
  • By Bus View
    • There is a bus stop within 150 metres of the venue.
    • Belfast City Airport has a designated Airport Express 600 Service with buses every 30 minutes at peak times from the front of the terminal building to the centre of town. The journey only takes around 10 minutes Airport Express 600 Service (Belfast City Centre – George Best Belfast City Airport).
      Tickets are available from the tourist information desk in arrivals or from the driver.
    • For more information on buses to the airport please click here (opens new tab).
  • By Train View
    • The nearest Railway Station is Sydenham.
    • Translink operates NIRailways train services across Northern Ireland. When travelling to the airport by train, you'll want to disembark at Sydenham Station. When travelling from the airport, board the train at Sydenham Station and travel to either Belfast Central Station or Great Victoria Street Station, which are both just a convenient 5-10 minute journey away. From either of these train stations, you can then make onwards connections to various popular locations across Northern Ireland and even down into the South of Ireland.
      Train services depart from Sydenham Station regularly during peak times. Please note - there is a footbridge which passengers must cross either going to or coming from Sydenham Station. Therefore, The airport advise passengers against this transport option if they have reduced mobility or experience difficulty when using steps.
      For your convenience, the airport operates a FREE shuttle bus service between the airport terminal and Sydenham Station. Should you require the shuttle service from the airport to the rail halt, please go to the Airport Parking Services desk on arrival with your request. A member of our team will signal the shuttle bus to collect you from the front of terminal.
      Should you require the service from the train station to the airport terminal, there is a telephone located on the airport side at the railway halt. Use this freephone service to dial: 07701 281 835 and request the shuttle service.
    • For more information on trains to the airport please click here (opens new tab).

Getting Help and Assistance

  • For information about assisted travel at the airport please click here (new tab).
  • There is a member of staff available for help and assistance.
  • There is not a member of staff trained in British Sign Language.
  • There is not an assistance dog toilet or toileting area at the venue/nearby.
  • Water bowls for assistance dogs are available.
  • There are mobility aids available.
  • The mobility aids available include wheelchairs.
  • To obtain mobility aids please contact Assisted Travel Team.
  • There is a portable hearing loop available, which can be used by passengers when using the airport.
    If you wish to use the portable hearing loop please either contact the airport in advance or go to the assisted travel counter in the main terminal building.
  • There is a changing places facility located next to the Check-in Desks.

Related Access Guides (Parking, Buses, Taxis and Car Hire)

Outside Access (Main Entrance)

  • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the terminal building.
  • The entrance area/door is clearly signed.
  • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
  • The entrance door(s) does not/do not contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
  • The main door(s) open(s) automatically.
  • The door(s) is/are double width.
  • The width of the door opening is 250cm.
  • There is a second set of doors.
  • The door(s) open(s) automatically.
  • The door(s) is/are double width.
  • The width of the door opening is 250cm.

Outside Access (Side Entrance)

  • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the terminal building.
  • The entrance area/door is not clearly signed.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance.
  • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
  • The entrance door(s) does not/do not contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
  • The main door(s) open(s) automatically.
  • The door(s) is/are double width.
  • The width of the door opening is 175cm.
  • There is a second set of doors.
  • The door(s) open(s) automatically.
  • The door(s) is/are double width.
  • The width of the door opening is 165cm.

Check-In

  • There is step-free access throughout the check-in hall.
  • Circulation View
    • The type of flooring in this area is tiles.
    • There is some flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
    • There is good colour contrast between the walls and floor in all areas.
    • There is a mixture of seating with and without armrests at regular intervals.
    • There is designated seating available for people with reduced mobility.
    • The lighting levels are adjustable.
  • Information View
    • Departures and arrivals information boards are available.
    • There are not audible announcements in this area.
  • Signage View
    • Wayfinding signage is provided.
    • The colour, design and typeface of signs is consistent throughout the building.
    • Dementia friendly signage is not provided.
  • Audio View
    • This venue does not play background music in public areas.
    • There is not a hearing assistance system in check in hall.

Passenger Services (Assisted Travel)

  • The counter is located to the right after you enter.
  • The counter is approximately 30m (32yd 2ft) from the main entrance.
  • Clear signage for the counter is visible from the entrance.
  • There is step-free access to the counter.
  • There is a clear unobstructed route to the counter.
  • There are no windows, TVs, glazed screens or mirrors behind the counter which could adversely affect the ability of someone to lip read.
  • The counter is not placed in front of a background which is patterned.
  • The lighting levels at the counter are moderate to good.
  • The height of the counter is very low (75cm or lower).
  • There is sufficient space to write or sign documents on the counter.
  • The counter is staffed.
  • There is a bell to attract attention.
  • Clipboards can be provided to anyone who is unable to use the counter.
  • There is a hearing assistance system at the counter.
  • The type of system is a portable loop.
  • The hearing assistance system is signed.
  • Staff are trained to use the hearing system.
  • Signs and universally accepted symbols or pictograms, indicating lifts, stairs, WCs, circulation routes and other parts of the building are provided near the counter.
  • The type of flooring in this area is tiles.
  • There is a waiting area close to the counter.
  • Access to the waiting area is unobstructed.
  • The seats have an armrest on one side only.
  • There is sufficient space for a wheelchair user to use the waiting area.

Check-In Desks

  • The check-in desk(s) is/are located to the left after you enter.
  • The check-in desk(s) is/are clearly signed.
  • There is step-free access to the check-in desk(s).
  • There is step free access to check-in desk(s) all.
  • The height of the check-in desk(s) is/are very high (111cm+).
  • There is not a lowered section at the check-in desk(s).
  • There is not a hearing assistance system at the check-in desk(s).
  • There is a member of staff available to assist with bags at the check-in desk(s).
  • There are two self-service desks at the rear of the check-in desks area.

Shop(s) (WHSmith)

  • Shop Entrance View
    • At the rear of the departure lounge.
    • There is step-free access at this entrance/opening.
    • There are no doors leading into the shop(s).
  • Till Point(s) View
    • There is step free access to the till point(s).
    • The till point(s) is/are not clearly signed.
    • The height of the till point is 105cm.
    • There is not a lowered section at the till point .
    • There is not a hearing assistance system at the till point(s).
    • There is a/are hearing assistance system(s) located There is step free access throughout the shop.
      The surface of the flooring.
      The majority of the aisleways are over 100cm wide.
    • There are not windows, TVs, glazed screens or mirrors behind the till point(s) which could adversely affect the ability of someone to lip read.
    • The till point(s) is/are not placed in front of a background which is patterned.

Room(s) (Multi Faith)

  • The room surveyed was Multi Faith Room.
  • Multi Faith Room is located next to the Airport Parking Services counter.
  • Access View
    • There is wayfinding signage on route to the room(s).
    • Signage for the room(s) is available in upper and lower case lettering, that is clearly visible.
    • There is written signage for the room, in upper and lower case lettering, that is clearly visible.
    • The corridor/walkway outside the room(s) is sufficiently wide enough (150cm+) to allow wheelchair users to pass.
    • The colour contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The colour contrast between the internal door and wall is good.
    • There is step-free access into the room(s).
  • Room Details View
    • The door(s) open(s) away from you (push).
    • The door(s) is/are single.
    • The door opening width(s) is/are 75cm+ for the room(s).
    • The door is easy to open.
    • Light switches are between 75cm and 120cm (4ft) from floor level.
    • There is not a hearing assistance system for the room(s).
    • There is not a visual fire alarm beacon in the room(s).
    • There is not fixed furniture within the room(s).
    • There is sufficient space for a wheelchair user to turn within the room.
    • There are some chairs with armrests on both side within the room(s).
    • The type of flooring in the room(s) is carpet.
    • Floor coverings in the room(s) are even with no trip hazards.
    • The colour contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.

Eating and Drinking (Caffé Nero)

  • Location and Access View
    • The following information is for the café.
    • The café is located straight ahead as you enter the Main Terminal building.
    • There is step-free access to the café.
  • Service and Menus View
    • Tables cannot be booked in advance.
    • There is a counter where food and drink can be ordered.
    • Staff can bring food and/or drinks to tables.
    • Menu types include: written wall menus.
    • Menus are clearly written.
    • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
    • Staff can read menus to customers if requested.
    • The type of food served here is hot and cold meals and snacks.
    • Plastic/takeaway cups are available.
    • Adapted cups are not available.
    • Adapted cutlery is not available.
    • Drinking straws are available.
    • This area does play background music.
    • Background music is played at all times.
    • There is not a hearing assistance system .
  • Service Counter(s) View
    • The height of the counter is 115cm.
    • There is a moveable card machine available for payment.
    • The lighting levels are good.
  • Tables and Seating View
    • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
    • The majority of tables are accessible to wheelchair users.
    • The standard height for the underside of dining tables is 69cm.
    • The surface height of the lowest table is 48cm.
    • The surface height of the highest table is 99cm.
    • Some tables are permanently fixed.
    • Some chairs are permanently fixed.
    • Some chairs have armrests on both sides.
    • In this area there are coffee tables, long tables, armchairs, sofas, booths, bench seats and stools.
    • The type of flooring in this area is vinyl.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.

Level Change (Caffe Nero Additional Seating)

  • Step(s) View
    • There is a/are step(s) located opposite the counter.
    • The step(s) is/are used to access The steps are used to access the mezzanine seating area.
    • There is/are 22 step(s).
    • The step(s) is/are clearly marked.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are between 15cm and 18cm.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are 17cm.
    • The going of the step(s) is/are not between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.
    • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
    • The handrail(s) is/are on both sides.
    • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
    • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
    • Handrails are easy to grip.
    • Handrails do extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
    • The lighting levels at the step(s) are good.

Changing Places (Main Terminal Building - Check-In Desks)

  • Location and Access View
    • The facility is located at the rear of the terminal building, next to the check-in desks.
    • The facility is in addition to standard and accessible toilets.
    • The facility is located close to other managed facilities (e.g. reception or service counter).
    • There is level access to the facility.
    • The facility surveyed is for the sole use of disabled people.
    • The colour contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The colour contrast between the internal door and wall is good.
    • You do need a key for the facility.
    • The key is a radar key.
    • The key can be obtained from the passenger assistance counter.
    • There is a sign at the entrance to the Changing Places facility indicating the location of the nearest toilets and baby changing facilities.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is light.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The door has a horizontal grab rail.
    • The width of the door is 87cm.
    • The dimensions of the facility are 315cm x 300cm.
    • The ceiling height is at a minimum of 2.4m.
    • There is a clear 200cm x 180cm manoeuvring space in the facility.
    • The facility has a non-slip floor.
    • The colour contrast between the walls and floor is good.
  • Toilet Details View
    • The facility toilet has a transfer space on both sides.
    • The transfer space on the right as you face the toilet is 160cm.
    • The transfer space on the left as you face the toilet is 105cm.
    • Dropdown rails are provided.
    • The colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There are no vertical grab rails for the toilet.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 48cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a spatula flush.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet has a cistern.
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is good.
    • There is an emergency alarm for the toilet.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is within reach and fully functional.
  • Changing Bench and Hoist Details View
    • The facility changing bench is wall mounted.
    • The facility changing bench height is adjustable.
    • The length of the facility changing bench is 190cm.
    • The facility hoist is powered overhead.
    • The overhead hoist covers all areas in the cubicle.
  • Other Facilities View
    • A privacy screen is not available.
    • The type of wash basin is adjustable.
    • The wash basin tap type is sensor.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available at the wash basin.
    • As you face the wash basin, the wall mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • The colour contrast between the wash basin grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser is at the recommended height of 80cm-100cm.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 100cm.
    • Wide tear off paper roll is not available.
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer is at the recommended height of 80cm-100cm.
    • The height of the hand dryer is 88cm.
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a mirror.
    • The mirror is not placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • There is a/are female sanitary disposal units.
    • There is not an emergency alarm for the facility.
    • There is not a flashing fire alarm beacon within the toilet.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • Comments View
    • There is also a separate free standing bed available.
    • The bed is 180cm long.

Accessible Toilet(s) (Main Terminal Building - Near to Car Rental Desks - Left Transfer)

  • There is an/are accessible toilet(s) available.
  • Location and Access View
    • This accessible toilet is located near to the car rental desks.
    • There is step-free access into the accessible toilet.
    • This is a shared toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • There is Braille, tactile, pictorial and written text signage on or near the toilet door.
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is easy to open.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The width of the accessible toilet opening is 86cm (2ft 10in).
    • The contrast between the internal door and wall is good.
    • The door has a horizontal grab rail.
    • The contrast between the horizontal grab rail and internal door is poor.
  • Toilet Features View
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 148cm x 190cm (4ft 10in x 6ft 3in).
    • The accessible toilet does not have an unobstructed minimum turning space of 150cm x 150cm.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
    • The lateral transfer space is 80cm (2ft 7in).
    • The transfer space is obstructed by a sanitary bin.
    • There is a flush, however it is not on the transfer side.
    • There is a spatula type lever flush.
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • The contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a/are wall-mounted grab rail(s) available.
    • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a horizontal wall-mounted grab rail on the opposite side of the seat to the transfer space.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • There is not a red flashing fire alarm beacon within the toilet.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the toilet.
    • There is a/are general waste (with no lid) and sanitary disposal units.
    • There is a/are coat hook(s).
    • The height of the coat hook is 140cm from the floor.
  • Additional Fixtures View
    • There is a mirror.
    • The mirror is placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The toilet has a cistern.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 48cm (1ft 7in).
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is good.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The contrast between the toilet roll holder and the wall is poor.
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin and tap(s) can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • There are vertical wall-mounted grab rails on both sides of the wash basin.
    • The contrast between the wash basin wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • The wash basin tap type is lever mixer.
    • There is a wall fixed soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 90cm.
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The contrast between the hand dryer and the wall is poor.

Standard Toilet(s) (Main Terminal Building - Near to Car Rental Desks)

  • Standard toilet facilities are available.
  • Toilet Facilities View
    • The female and male toilets are located near to the Car Rental Desks.
    • There is step-free access into the toilet(s).
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • An ambulant toilet cubicle is available.
    • There are horizontal wall mounted rails available on both sides of the toilet.
    • There is a/are vertical wall mounted rail(s) on the right as you face the toilet.
    • The height of the wash basin(s) is 80cm.
    • The wash basin(s) tap type is sensor.
    • Lighting levels are moderate to good.

Parent and Baby Room (Main Terminal Building - Near to Car Rental Desks)

  • There is a parent and baby room for public use.
  • The parent and baby room is located next to the car rental desks.
  • There is step-free access into the parent and baby room.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the room.
  • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the parent and baby room door.
  • The baby change table is not set against the wall, permanently fixed at 75cm from the floor.
  • The baby change table is not height adjustable.
  • The height of the baby change table once extended is 85cm (2ft 9in).
  • There are disposal facilities in the parent and baby room.
  • There is a wash basin in the parent and baby room.
  • The height of the wash basin is 69cm.
  • The wash basin tap type is sensor.
  • There is a/are chair(s) in the parent and baby room.
  • There is a chair with armrests on both sides.
  • There is not a toilet in the parent and baby room.
  • There is not a flashing fire alarm beacon within the room.
  • The lighting levels are moderate to good.

Related Access Guides (Security)

  • To view other AccessAble Detailed Access Guides that are related to this one please use the links below.
  • For information about Security please see the link below.
  • Security link (new tab) - click here