BELFAST AIRPORT INTERNATIONAL

[BFS watcher]

Good figures particularly International, great growth on the Spanish routes. More pressure on EI down at City. How much longer will they last?

[A320.b744]

Good figures particularly International, great growth on the Spanish routes. More pressure on EI down at City. How much longer will they last?

May figures are very impressive, with the airport well on track to having its busiest year ever.

LGW is continuing in its upward trend (as are all London routes) - 19% growth this May, even with Ryanair operating the route last May as well. The rolling passenger figure on the route for the last 12 months has topped 1 million for the first time, so that'll please management.

Polish routes seem to be doing very well - all have between 85-93% load factor, and Milan flights are over 80% full. Ryanair are still unable to fill 75% of their Berlin flights though, so I wouldn't be surprised if it was axed in the next year or so.

[GAZMO]

Just noticed EI994 leaving BFS. Anyone know reason for this flight!

[A320.b744]

Just noticed EI994 leaving BFS. Anyone know reason for this flight!

EI339 TXL-DUB was diverted to BFS last night.

[BFS watcher]

http://m.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/news/mixed-fortunes-at-airports-as-city-of-derry-numbers-fall-35895104.html

Ms Best's take is interesting!

[BHD2BFS]

Do we know what the first load factors where like for Norwegian or how they are looking for future booking?

They seem to have great public awareness so hopefully more routes to come. They currently don't fly to Canada from any airport. So maybe a Halifax route to come in the future?

[AerRyan]

Halifax? Market is very small there.

[West Brit]

Halifax? Market is very small there.

I think they mean Nova Scotia not West Yorkshire. I have been to the market in Halifax - reasonably big, typical British Farmers market - some good bargains to be had!!

[AerRyan]

I do enjoy a good pun but jaysus that one was terrible.

Imo, it's either WestJet or No jet, that's the only way you're getting to Canada in the foreseeable future.

[PPRuNeUser0176]

Your probally right, Norwegian would have problems getting permission to operate Canada to Europe (exclude Scandinavian) just look how they are limiting the Middle East ones and protecting their own.

[West Brit]

You guys said we Wouldn't get Orlando a couple of years back. Guess what Virgin came along. Not only that but TCX. Next year full season. Never mind the fact that Norwegian are here with 2 transatlantic destinations which 'would never happen'. Canada will happen Westjet or no Westjet. I think you guys know, the bigger the selection of destinations there are from Belfast the less people up here use Dublin. Also the more people use Belfast from abroad and down south. Over the last lot of years there always seemed be more and more folk I know using Dublin. This year for the first time it has decreased very significantly. When I ask around folk seem to be using a Belfast airport this year.

[INKJET]

Can't see Canada being difficult at all, either through NAI or even less so through NUK, whether it can justify a a 787 is another matter, maybe will have to await the A321NeoLR

[AerRyan]

Not difficult, other than lack of a viable market! :)

I never said MCO wouldn't come, however I see people deluding themselves with local wishes and dreams so fair enough, go on.

[West Brit]

Canada is a viable market, which is waiting to be filled. It has had regular multiple weekly summer flights 747s, A310, tistars, DC10s..... etc from late 60s through to 2007. So this is no pipe dream. You are going to have to eat yer hat!

[Refuellerman]

You guys said we Wouldn't get Orlando a couple of years back. Guess what Virgin came along. Not only that but TCX. Next year full season. Never mind the fact that Norwegian are here with 2 transatlantic destinations which 'would never happen'. Canada will happen Westjet or no Westjet. I think you guys know, the bigger the selection of destinations there are from Belfast the less people up here use Dublin. Also the more people use Belfast from abroad and down south. Over the last lot of years there always seemed be more and more folk I know using Dublin. This year for the first time it has decreased very significantly. When I ask around folk seem to be using a Belfast airport this year.
well said, local airport, local income

[mart901]

Absolutely Refuellerman.

Passing through tonight the airport packed to the gunnels. It really does need more space or re-planning for peak summer. Great to see it doing so well and I agree with the points about people seemingly using a Belfast airport over Dublin. Still a lot of myths about pre-clearance and how much time it really saves and people who don't even know Norwegian fly transatlantic from BFS despite every possible communication channel being tapped.
On the point of future growth I see no reason why Norwegian won't offer more and possibly utilise the aircraft currently layed up for several hours on the ground during the day.

[NWSRG]

Big kudos to Graham Keddie and his team. They've done a great job, and we need to applaud them for it. Hopefully more to come.

And if this keeps going, there will have to be some terminal development before long...

[Refuellerman]

There was big chat about the men out with measuring devices about 2 weeks ago around stand 18, starbucks area

[GAZMO]

Norwegian flight to Providence cancelled this afternoon!!
More unhappy pax. Anyone know the reason?

[mart901]

Crew shortage

[GAZMO]

Not a great start for Norwegian!

[AerRyan]

At least it wasn't like Shannon, where the inaugural flight was cancelled!

[mart901]

I'd imagine must be crew sickness because the inbound arrived today

[j636]

Do Thomosn not operate ex Belfast in October??

[GAZMO]

ACE and PMI run into the first week of October, rest finish in September

[j636]

Do sunwing operate the last few flights?

[cuthere]

Bloody Dubline.......er......Norwegians:

Norwegian Air US-bound flight from Belfast cancelled - BBC News (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-40543937)

[Startledgrapefruit]

Bet the flying monkey shed a wee tear. Sorry bfs watcher.

[BFS watcher]

All right I will bite.......one cancellation due to crew sickness, probably poisoned in a Dublin hotel!

[cuthere]

Of course you'll bite Belfast-Voyeur. Of course you will. At least Belfast will beat Dublin (for once) for the number of landing lights on Tuesday night!

[vkid]

At least it wasn't like Shannon, where the inaugural flight was cancelled!

The inaugural flight was not cancelled. It was the day after.

[Preon]

Crew shortage


no standby crew available?

[BFS BHD]

Jet2:
B737-800 to based from 2nd November 2017 instead of Summer 2018

Wizz Air:
A321 on the Vilinus route from 25th August 2017.

Thomas Cook:
Appears the Kos route that was due to start in S18 will now be replaced by Antalya.

TCX922 - BFS-AYT - 06:30-13:10
TCX923 - AYT-BFS - 14:10-17:15

[mart901]

All good news, shame about Kos but maybe TCX are fighting LS on the AYT front.

Thanks for the update BFS BHD.

[AerRyan]

The inaugural flight was not cancelled. It was the day after.

Really? Can you tell me when the Inaugural flight to Providence took place?

[BFS BHD]

All good news, shame about Kos but maybe TCX are fighting LS on the AYT front.

Thanks for the update BFS BHD.

Also one to keep an eye on is Ryanair have added a flight on Thursday 2nd November 2017 to Milan. Appears to be Milan based aircraft operating the flight. Could be going three weekly or changing days from Wednesdays to Thursdays.

[mart901]

That is the school holidays so it could be in relation to that.

[EI-BUD]

It would appear that the BFS thread didn't report that yesterday's Norwegian flight from BFS to Newburgh diverted to Gander, due to what a passenger described as 'not having enough fuel to reach Newburgh'. The stop was over 1.5 hours and then after landing at Newburgh, a further 45 wait...due to steps issue etc.

... been some cock ups since go live over a week ago from each of Cork, Belfast and Shannon, between diversions for fuel and cancellations!!

[vkid]

Really? Can you tell me when the Inaugural flight to Providence took place?


Their first flight was on Sunday 2nd july.
It was the Monday flight cancelled which was to Providence.

"At least it wasn't like Shannon, where the inaugural flight was cancelled!

[AerRyan]

The Shannon inaugural flight to Providence was cancelled. Norwegian operations began the day before, however the inaugural flight to Providence the next day was cancelled.

[BFS BHD]

That is the school holidays so it could be in relation to that.

Ahh yes forgot about that! That is likely what the extea flight is for. :)

[A320.b744]

BFS on target to surpass 5.75 million passengers this year - June was the 24th month of consecutive double-digit growth.

https://www.belfastairport.com/blog-news/2017/july/airport-achieves-remarkable-growth-milestone

[BFS BHD]

Any news on if EasyJet will be announcing any new routes for W17/18? Appears to be a few new route being announced tomorrow from other UK airports.

[mart901]

Notice that EZY running PMI into early November, kids holidays - do they normally? Does any other airline ever from BFS??

[BFS BHD]

No new routes from BFS in the release today for EasyJets new routes for W17/18!

[GAZMO]

Well we can only hope they might announce some in Sept when they release Spring schedule

[AerRyan]

Route retention is much more important than senselessly adding routes yano!

[owenc]

The SWF flight flew the direct route, the PVD flew to KEF and then onwards, which is bizzare considering it's 150 miles shorter.

Did the PVD flight have extra passengers again?

[Refuellerman]

The SWF flight flew the direct route, the PVD flew to KEF and then onwards, which is bizzare considering it's 150 miles shorter.

Did the PVD flight have extra passengers again?
Don't see any of the usual bfs critic's congratulating the airport on one of the 1st airfields to operate a b737 max aircraft?🤔

[AerRyan]

Don't see any of the usual bfs critic's congratulating the airport on one of the 1st airfields to operate a b737 max aircraft?🤔

Because that hasn't occured yet?

Jaysus, now you're annoyed at people not giving out. And I thought it had gotten petty enough!

[PPRuNeUser0176]

Don't see any of the usual bfs critic's congratulating the airport on one of the 1st airfields to operate a b737 max aircraft?🤔

I'm sure airport bosses were central part of the operational decisions taken by D8 about where aircraft go. :p

[Refuellerman]

Because that hasn't occured yet?

Jaysus, now you're annoyed at people not giving out. And I thought it had gotten petty enough!
Did you not see pics of it in today then? Come on man, get with it lol🤡

[AerRyan]

Did you not see pics of it in today then? Come on man, get with it lol🤡

All the passengers flying on the Providence and Stewart flights today must have been pleased!

Oh wait, there was none! Brilliant!

[EGAC is Better]

Did you not see pics of it in today then? Come on man, get with it lol🤡

The clown face is a bit ironic.

All things considered, it hasn't actually operated to anywhere FROM Belfast yet. Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but it looks to have been a positioning flight only. No passengers, so I'm afraid to say refuellerman, you have been a bit of a clown with your comments.

When it eventually makes its first commercial flight, should we applaud Belfast not only for having its first B38M flight but also because it is with Norwegians newest plane? 🙄

[Husky One]

Just another 737 :zzz:

[mart901]

MAX landed this morning from SWF

[AerRyan]

MAX landed this morning from SWF

No it didn't? EI-FJT, a regular 737-800 landed from SWF.

No 737 MAX has taken on a commercial flight. However one landed in BFS yesterday and will operate one of today's TATL flights.

Jaysus lads check what ye post before ye post it!

[owenc]

Think we know that!

Knew AerRyan would be in to ruin the mood!

[AerRyan]

Alright so Mr.Im banned from every other website :)

[AerRyan]

EI-FJT landed this morning.

Yeah, which is as I said a regular 737-800.

[mart901]

Yeah, which is as I said a regular 737-800.

Whoops misread that!

[Refuellerman]

Yeah, which is as I said a regular 737-800.

Well mr, the aircraft i was at this morning was a max, if ure not at the airport u wont be able to see it, if u look at fr24 u will see it doing a revenue flight today🤡

[AerRyan]

Well mr, the aircraft i was at this morning was a max, if ure not at the airport u wont be able to see it, if u look at fr24 u will see it doing a revenue flight today🤡

I actually recognise your incoherent rambles from another site!

And, would you at least check what your saying before you post. The first MAX flight has not taken off yet and is due to takeoff in 20mins. As of yet, no MAX has operated from Belfast with passengers. The flight that arrived this morning was not on a MAX.

And, just in case you didn't know, even being at the airport, you seen equally uninformed and not really with it.

And Mart, fair enough we all make mistakes :)

[PinOnTheRight]

Don't see any of the usual bfs critic's congratulating the airport on one of the 1st airfields to operate a b737 max aircraft?🤔

Mark,
You ought to know better than to think BFS airport management have had some input in Norwegian's aircraft allocation. :rolleyes:

[Refuellerman]

Mark,
You ought to know better than to think BFS airport management have had some input in Norwegian's aircraft allocation. :rolleyes:

Exclamation mark?

[mart901]

AYT confirmed for TCX next year

[GAZMO]

Gatwick....two inbound cancellations tonight and one outbound cancelled

Is this the usual summer problems with EZY

[BFS BHD]

Gatwick....two inbound cancellations tonight and one outbound cancelled

Is this the usual summer problems with EZY

Aircraft tyre burst closes Gatwick Airport runway - BBC News (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-sussex-40633864)

Knock-on delays because of this.

[VickersVicount]

no its the hangover from the Air Canada Rouge incident at LGW earlier. Nothing more...

[mart901]

https://theholidayninja.com/2017/07/20/ninja-verdict-belfast-to-new-york-with-norwegian/

[GAZMO]

Very positive article. As author states prepare in advance and do not set expectations too high as you are on a LCC

[GAZMO]

Jet2 have press release on their winter ski flights........posters here new this already
Here we snow! Jet2.com adds ski flights from Belfast International | Jet2.com (http://www.jet2.com/News/Here_we_snow!_Jet2_com_adds_ski_flights_from_Belfast_Interna tional/)

[BFS BHD]

Just looking at Wizz Airs timetable on their app and appears Katowice is ending on 28th October 2017...

[Jamie2k9]

Not a suprise, I was expexting them pull it a littler sooner.

[BFS BHD]

Airport Makes Business Development Appointments (http://www.nitravelnews.com/trade-section/trade-news/2912-airport-makes-business-development-appointments.html)

[Refuellerman]

Anyone see or hear anything bout the sunwing aircraft that has been in the headlines for a laboured t/o and damaged airfield lighting?

[GAZMO]

Check Thomson thread, some comments re this incident


Anyone know about BA divert to BFS last night?

[BFS BHD]

Anyone know about BA divert to BFS last night?

Thunder Storms over NI last night.

[southside bobby]

Re the t/o incident...brief article FlightGlobal online yesterday.............

[EI-A330-300]

Looks like Jet 2 are considering extending AGP year round.

[GAZMO]

EI-A330-300 what is your source? Nothing on their website?

[BFS BHD]

EI-A330-300 what is your source? Nothing on their website?

BFS-AGP is appearing on this website for Jet2 in W17/18

https://www.amadeus.net/tools/timetables

Thursday:
BFS-AGP - 08:00-12:10
AGP-BFS - 12:45-15:00

Sunday:
BFS-AGP - 12:00-16:10
AGP-BFS - 16:45-19:00

[GAZMO]

Interesting choice of destination!! With EZY and FR on the route (I believe seven weekly in total) I did not think there would be a demand for another two?

Always thought twice weekly to PMI in winter would have been successful

[Refuellerman]

Interesting choice of destination!! With EZY and FR on the route (I believe seven weekly in total) I did not think there would be a demand for another two?

Always thought twice weekly to PMI in winter would have been successful

If u have been to pmi in dec, jan, feb, mar, its a cold hole

[DC9_10]

I have to say that I've become rather fond of Jet2 and the holiday product. Me and the other half love that we get to our hotel then on return can check our bags at the hotel on departure and get a rep also if assistance is needed. As an ex cabin manager at EZY, I prefer Jet2. Superior customer experience from people enjoying their job and not being worked to the bone, knackered and having to try to provide great customer service after working up to 6 days with minimum rest because your told its legal .

[mart901]

I have to say that I've become rather fond of Jet2 and the holiday product. Me and the other half love that we get to our hotel then on return can check our bags at the hotel on departure and get a rep also if assistance is needed. As an ex cabin manager at EZY, I prefer Jet2. Superior customer experience from people enjoying their job and not being worked to the bone, knackered and having to try to provide great customer service after working up to 6 days with minimum rest because your told its legal .

I've got Paphos booked next year with LS, looking forward to it, lot of people I know very impressed with the whole of the jet2 group lately. I've never had an issue with EZY but I'd have to say crew often look tired out, I'd have said FR's were the most exhausted looking in the past, less so the last few flights I've had with them after a long period of refusing to use them.

[GAZMO]

Caa stats out for June.
International routes well up at the expense of some domestic routes

5.65 million pax for the last 12 months

[DC9_10]

See Ryanair going back up to 5 daily on the Gatwick for winter 2018 with a departure at 10 45. Is the third frame on its way at last, and is another UK destination on the cards due the departure time ?

[BHD2BFS]

I doubt FR will put a 3rd aircraft in anytime soon.
However if they did and did a business friendly LBA and EMA twice daily. It would kill BE on the route

Again very unlikely but a BOH rotation 5-6 times a week would also knock Flybe on their southern England market. Another contender on a domestic route could be CWL? If BE are upping to twice daily. Again FR could squeeze the market with 4-5 rotations a week

On another domestic note. With EZY now flying into SOU. Could they begin to look at the regional market from there?

Just my 2 cents. Personally I think APD is saving Flybe on the domestic side at the moment. Remove it and the big boys will move in and clear up

[Jamesair]

They might want to have a go at EZY on the NCL route...as rumoured last year...pax figures increase every month, year on year.

[owenc]

What about STN?

[True Blue]

Winter18? Do you mean W17?

Is it not that Ryanair has 4 slots for the summer season and 5 for the winter season? Rather than speculate about any extra aircraft.

[GAZMO]

Could be an earlier slot back from LGW?
Early morning flight arrives at LGW at 8.25, if it leaves at at 8.50 should be back in BFS at 10.15 ready for 10.45 departure back to LGW

[True Blue]

Since Ryanair started the LGW route, they have operated 4 services during the summer season and 5 services during the winter season. Nothing new.

[True Blue]

In the CAA stats for June, Birmingham and Glasgow show large drops. Is this Ezy playing about with capacity?

[BFS watcher]

In the CAA stats for June, Birmingham and Glasgow show large drops. Is this Ezy playing about with capacity? huge cuts in Easy capacity on Glasgow in particular. All part of the schedule rewrite after pilot deal was the rumour. Believe schedule restored for the winter.

[OltonPete]

True Blue

The summer reduction on the route usually happens in the last week of June to the first week in September alas this year it started early to mid June and continues to the winter season although the odd frequency is restored in Mid September I believe.

Winter this year is similar to last year.


Pete

.

[True Blue]

It is not good from a consistency of schedule point of view. Easyjet are quite poor at this sort of activity. I know why they do it, but leaves the door open for the likes of FR to step in.

[GAZMO]

More jobs on the way to BFS


£2.5 million SSP investment to create 70 new jobs at Belfast International Airport - The Irish News (http://www.irishnews.com/business/2017/08/08/news/-2-5-million-ssp-investment-to-create-70-new-jobs-at-belfast-international-airport-1103667/)

[SecondDog]

More jobs on the way to BFS


£2.5 million SSP investment to create 70 new jobs at Belfast International Airport - The Irish News (http://www.irishnews.com/business/2017/08/08/news/-2-5-million-ssp-investment-to-create-70-new-jobs-at-belfast-international-airport-1103667/)

Looks like good news!

I shall of course wait to be educated otherwise by all the pprune airport experts 😈

[True Blue]

I do hope after this expansion, they are better at clearing the tables than on my last visit on 1st July. Hardly a clear clean table in the area just past security. This at 10.00 am, after the first rush, place quite quiet but with no effort being made to clear said tables. The place was a mess. My email to Mr Keddie was replied to within minutes, copied to about 5 other people at Bfs, he said they were aware of the issue.

[Alteagod]

Even 1 job created is better than any jobs lost

[Refuellerman]

Ive been hearing thomas cook flights next year ex bfs are to be on a sub charter, and word is its a tu 204😲

[BHD2BFS]

Have heard Belfast based cabin crew and charted aircraft with flight deck

[BFS BHD]

Any idea what airline it is?

[OneBellEnd]

Avion Express - all Airbus 320-family fleet. Already used to a large extent by both Thomas Cook and Condor.

Heard same changes to TC programmes in EMA and STN.

[Refuellerman]

Avion Express - all Airbus 320-family fleet. Already used to a large extent by both Thomas Cook and Condor.

Heard same changes to TC programmes in EMA and STN.
Sounds better than a tupelov lol🖒

[Husky One]

The race to the bottom continues .. Avion Express is one of a variety of EU fringe bottom feeders employing crews on shocking terms. They are literally worlds apart from mainline TCX. They may even be involved in pay to fly but I'll need to check that. TCX seem hell-bent of self destruction at the minute.

[BFS watcher]

Good to see.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-40902700

[GAZMO]

Fingers crossed......even a 50% reduction in APD

[j636]

The race to the bottom continues .. Avion Express is one of a variety of EU fringe bottom feeders employing crews on shocking terms. They are literally worlds apart from mainline TCX. They may even be involved in pay to fly but I'll need to check that. TCX seem hell-bent of self destruction at the minute.

Looks like the market may be getting squeezed.

Wonder if they will base an A320 instead of current A321?

[GLAEDI]

It depends on the solution that the UK agrees with the EU. It's likely if a virtual border is placed between Eire and the Northern Ireland that a hard border will be put in place between the island of Ireland and the island of Great Britain. This means that all traffic from the island of Ireland arriving in the International Arrivals area. Also full Border Force controls will be implemented at Fishguard, Anglesey, Liverpool and Cairnryan. This is what the Brexit vote wanted and the outcome of it. The DUP will not like these border checks on domestic services but unless a full border is implemented on the island of Ireland then they'll not be a border between the EU and the UK. I can't imagine the army, armed Garda/PSNI plus the Irish Customs and the UK Border Force back on the check points. This will be a return to the troubles!!

[NWSRG]

I can't imagine the army, armed Garda/PSNI plus the Irish Customs and the UK Border Force back on the check points. This will be a return to the troubles!!

Why? Why should the establishment of a normal border cause a resumption of the Troubles?

Have you ever crossed the border from Canada to the USA? Two of the closest allies anywhere on the globe, and yet it is perfectly normal to get out of your car, speak to CBP, get back in your car and go on your way. If properly managed, it will add 5 - 10 minutes to your journey.

There's a lot of hysteria around Brexit...very little of it justified.

[owenc]

A lot of hysteria from people in GB did you notice? They don't have a clue.

[owenc]

In regards to this: The three airports have said they "already have a number of our existing and potential airlines ready to commit to flying from Northern Ireland should air passenger duty be removed".

What kind of routes is this inferring? Transatlantic or Europe?

[A320.b744]

In regards to this: The three airports have said they "already have a number of our existing and potential airlines ready to commit to flying from Northern Ireland should air passenger duty be removed".

What kind of routes is this inferring? Transatlantic or Europe?

Given that long haul APD is zero from NI, I would say they're talking about European routes. Iberia Express have said they'd commence Madrid flights from BHD if APD was axed, and Lufthansa have also expressed interest in the past. Ryanair have said on numerous occasions that they'd expand their BFS base as well if the tax was scrapped.

[GLAEDI]

Why? Why should the establishment of a normal border cause a resumption of the Troubles?

Have you ever crossed the border from Canada to the USA? Two of the closest allies anywhere on the globe, and yet it is perfectly normal to get out of your car, speak to CBP, get back in your car and go on your way. If properly managed, it will add 5 - 10 minutes to your journey.

There's a lot of hysteria around Brexit...very little of it justified.


Ok for one, apart from a couple of wars between the UK and the US around the wars of Independence there's never been conflict between Canada & the US. Two, look at Londonderry/Derry, the road signs are vandalised constantly showing the built up resentment, areas there with the tricolour and pro IRA Murials next to the Union Flag and anti catholic murials plus the peace walls still in place. Three, there's umpteen terrorist organisations still involved in major crime including the the rIRA, pIRA, INLA, UVF, UFF and the Red Hand Commandos. Four, the violence around marching season. Five, the comments from both sides, the Nationalist who will never accept a Border as Ireland is one Country and the Unionists who'll never accept any reduction in U.K. rule. Six, they can't even agree to Stormont. Seven, you say people will just jump out show their passport and jump back in, the majority of the Nationalist movement would refuse, sit on their car horns and protest like they did before. It's a mess, was warned about and will lead to the break up of the UK.

[Refuellerman]

Ok for one, apart from a couple of wars between the UK and the US around the wars of Independence there's never been conflict between Canada & the US. Two, look at Londonderry/Derry, the road signs are vandalised constantly showing the built up resentment, areas there with the tricolour and pro IRA Murials next to the Union Flag and anti catholic murials plus the peace walls still in place. Three, there's umpteen terrorist organisations still involved in major crime including the the rIRA, pIRA, INLA, UVF, UFF and the Red Hand Commandos. Four, the violence around marching season. Five, the comments from both sides, the Nationalist who will never accept a Border as Ireland is one Country and the Unionists who'll never accept any reduction in U.K. rule. Six, they can't even agree to Stormont. Seven, you say people will just jump out show their passport and jump back in, the majority of the Nationalist movement would refuse, sit on their car horns and protest like they did before. It's a mess, was warned about and will lead to the break up of the UK.
If there are no border controls, be it customs or technology, anpr etc this will show up the countries concerned, that the farcical nature of the peace process is a joke

[NWSRG]

Ok for one, apart from a couple of wars between the UK and the US around the wars of Independence there's never been conflict between Canada & the US. Two, look at Londonderry/Derry, the road signs are vandalised constantly showing the built up resentment, areas there with the tricolour and pro IRA Murials next to the Union Flag and anti catholic murials plus the peace walls still in place. Three, there's umpteen terrorist organisations still involved in major crime including the the rIRA, pIRA, INLA, UVF, UFF and the Red Hand Commandos. Four, the violence around marching season. Five, the comments from both sides, the Nationalist who will never accept a Border as Ireland is one Country and the Unionists who'll never accept any reduction in U.K. rule. Six, they can't even agree to Stormont. Seven, you say people will just jump out show their passport and jump back in, the majority of the Nationalist movement would refuse, sit on their car horns and protest like they did before. It's a mess, was warned about and will lead to the break up of the UK.

GLAEDI,

I think you're exhibiting some of said hysteria...

Firstly, 'mainstream' terrorism is finished in NI. Sinn Fein could never go back to supporting violence...peace has been too good for them. Their vote has increased in a way that would never have been possible without giving up the gun. While dissident threats remain, they are a remnant.

Secondly, Sinn Fein are probably quite chuffed at the prospect of a hard border...it clearly 'partitions' Ireland, and so they can vociferously argue against it politically.

Thirdly, the 'umpteen terrorist organisations' will also welcome a border. The Troubles in NI were not just about sectarian divides...in fact, as they progressed, racketeering and gangsterism became all too prevalent. And the introduction of a hard border will inevitably lead to smuggling...something these guys will rub their hands in glee at.

Then you talk about the violence around the marching season...this summer has seen the calmest, quietest, most respectful marching season on record. People on both sides are realising that confrontation only damages both sides...I would not have believed it, but sense does seem to be prevailing.

As for those pesky nationalists sitting on their car horns...these same people need to traverse the border day and daily to earn their crust. NI and ROI are inextricably linked, and people on both sides KNOW they need to make Brexit work. Again, if the US and Canada can make it work...

It's not all sweetness and light, but the transformation in NI has been staggering, and it will not be rolled back by Brexit. Even the most recent mood music from the DUP has been surprisingly conciliatory. despite the problems Stormont has faced.

Anyway, can we get back to airplanes?

[Skipness One Echo]

A lot of hysteria from people in GB did you notice? They don't have a clue.
Switch "GB" for "Ireland" and see if you don't think "Lordy, that's kinda racist!"

The more likely option is an open border with Ireland and a lot more attention paid to "domestic" arrivals from the north. They'll likely have to fudge it. Like the way you CANNOT enter Ireland without a passport when flying out of London. Even BA insist on a pre board check last time I flew.

[owenc]

I go to University in Southern England and their ignorance in regards to Northern Ireland is astounding.

[CCR]

Obviously, the only practical solution is to have the border in the Irish Sea.
That means, the border will be at the airports and seaports.
Ireland is complicated, one country with 2 jurisdictions and an invisible border between the Republic and northern Ireland.
The DUP may not like that but at the end of the day, northern Ireland will still be in the UK unless and until the people in both parts of Ireland vote for reunification.

[owenc]

Ireland is not one country. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, a separate country.

[AerRyan]

Owenc, I'd advice you stick to your university in southern England and stay out of politics.

I'd like to point out that the UK is not a country on that note also.

[owenc]

https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/united_kingdom

"A country of western Europe consisting of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland; population 64,700,000 (estimated 2015); capital, London. Full name United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland."

[j636]

I go to University in Southern England and their ignorance in regards to Northern Ireland is astounding.

Can you blame them?

If only they knew how much you are costing use it would be a lot worse.

Obviously, the only practical solution is to have the border in the Irish Sea.
That means, the border will be at the airports and seaports.
Ireland is complicated, one country with 2 jurisdictions and an invisible border between the Republic and northern Ireland.
The DUP may not like that but at the end of the day, northern Ireland will still be in the UK unless and until the people in both parts of Ireland vote for reunification.

Only solution in terms of travel is for "Domestic/Irish" arrivals set up today been scrapped border checks or e-gates for all domestic services. If it can be sold to Scotland/England to get on board the DUP couldn't and most likely wouldn't protest about it because it wouldn't make them any less "British" as all domestic flights would be treated equal. How ironic that been equally British is to the DUP in terms of travel but not in anything else.....

The whole point of cheeks in ROI is to inspect foreign nationals traveling to ROI from the UK. They even check on domestic arrivals at DUB but suspect that's more for practical reasons than legislative give the low numbers.

Info sharing between airlines and both Governments is happening for CTA flights, it will just create significant work for the border forces to keep track and monitor people traveling from NI/ROI to the mainland when/if free movement ends from Europe.

[owenc]

I would hope that little snippet isn't a dig against my country.

[AerRyan]

Go to bed Jesus.

[owenc]

Go to bed for what? Expressing alternative views that you can't tolerate?

You should take this up with the Scot who brought this nonsense about the border into our thread. It was going fine until who started his Hysteria.

Don't come after me.

[Startledgrapefruit]

Oh here we go
another fight on the Belfast thread

Edit
Personal views removed

[Refuellerman]

Im staying out of it this time☠☠

[ExoticSkier]

Any inside gossip on the Norwegian load factors? Had a curious thought of would Norwegian consider new routes to expand or just keep a small niche transatlantic operation.

[Refuellerman]

Any inside gossip on the Norwegian load factors? Had a curious thought of would Norwegian consider new routes to expand or just keep a small niche transatlantic operation.
Had a work colleague fly back last week, transfer to downtown ny just over an hour on the greyhound, like the run down the m2 he said, flight was faultless and over all trip great he said, i see the jet 2 from zante had to stop for juice last week on the way home, these 300 series aircraft desperately need changed to 800 series sooner rather than later if they dont want any more fuel stops and bad publicity from it, fr and ezy with the 320 dont need to do it, or the charters, ffs!

[AerRyan]

BFS and EDI are the top performers on LF apparently.

[NWSRG]

I've used the Norwegian services to Oslo a few times, and have to say, overall very impressed.

It would tempt me to try the transatlantic services...

[ExoticSkier]

Very happy to hear about Norwegian, thanks for the feedback.

As for Jet2 they are in no hurry to modernise their fleet. Plenty of 300 series craft hitting 30 years old, and a few more not far behind! It is good to see airlines fulfilling their aircrafts capable lifespan but Jet2 really need to up their game, who knows where FR will decide to expand to next!

Looks like a great year for BFS, excited to see the annual passenger figures next year.

[owenc]

A Poster recently said the running total was 5.75 million.

[EI-BUD]

ExoticSkier,

I would be of the view that Jet2 are sufficiently differenciated to the competition, they are progressive in the tour operator space and as a specialist, Ryanair, easyJet et al cant touch them. Who else could dream of going until Stansted (next year fleet of 9/10 on strength there). On the fleet side they are progressing nicely with their modernisation program with plenty of new metal coming onstream. The smaller machines will soon simply have to exit and probably given the highly seasonal nature of NI routes, makes such a size perfect.

[EIFFS]

Loads westbound are capped at around 155 at the minute until the MAX gets ETOPS in late autumn

Eastbound limit is around 165

Flown the route a few time no drama so far but winter just around the corner

[West Brit]

Flew jet2 on Wednesday night, Arecife-BFS 737-300. Had to refuel at Faro, added extra hour to the 0115 scheduled arrival time at BFS - not great!!

[Refuellerman]

Flew jet2 on Wednesday night, Arecife-BFS 737-300. Had to refuel at Faro, added extra hour to the 0115 scheduled arrival time at BFS - not great!!
Bern there too, an hour slot out of ace and a refuel in fao ment we were in bfs at 0330 ffs, 800 series wouldnt have been issue

[GAZMO]

Maybe with the new aircraft for next year they will allocate it to the longer destinations
Just flown to PMI with Jet2 great flight and service
No issues with passport control either

[mart901]

Maybe with the new aircraft for next year they will allocate it to the longer destinations
Just flown to PMI with Jet2 great flight and service
No issues with passport control either

I'm booked on a PFO flight next year and it's scheduled for 738.

[BFS BHD]

Current B737-800 routes for Summer 2018:

Monday:
Palma
Heraklion

Tuesday:
Alicante
Lanzarote

Wednesday:
Paphos

Thursday:
Palma
Antalya

Friday:
Palma
Rhodes

Saturday:
Palma
Lanzarote

Sunday:
Palma
Las Palmas

[owenc]

Loads westbound are capped at around 155 at the minute until the MAX gets ETOPS in late autumn

Eastbound limit is around 165

Flown the route a few time no drama so far but winter just around the corner
You've flown the route a few times!? What

[GAZMO]

Caa stats out for July
Rolling total 5.75 million passengers

[BFS BHD]

Norwegian:
Newburgh - 3,587

Providence - 1,982

Virgin & Thomas Cook:
TCX & Virgin -
Orlando - 7,105 up 76%

TCX -
Cancun - 2,174

[owenc]

What is the most Orlando has carried previously?

[EI-A330-300]

Norwegian:
Newburgh - 3,587

Providence - 1,982

If they were capped at 160 pax then it gives an 86% and 69% loads.

From what I am hearing the general trend is NY is doing much better from most Irish airports, the only exception Cork of course.

[BFS BHD]

Any rumours on what will be included in the Ryanair schedules for summer 2018? I'm sure they will be announced soon... :confused:

[AerRyan]

If they were capped at 160 pax then it gives an 86% and 69% loads.

From what I am hearing the general trend is NY is doing much better from most Irish airports, the only exception Cork of course.


Slightly lower LF as some flights ran on the MAX which isn't capped.

I'm surprised at those figures, I was under the impression from what I heard the numbers were higher.

[mart901]

Isn't the MAX still capped?

[owenc]

Yes I think it is...with regards to Load Factor, 189 seats each way accounts for a figure of 79%, and 160 seats each way accounts for a figure of 93%.

[AerRyan]

Could be wrong but I don't believe so, they've no ETOPS yet but I think they've no cap.

[GAZMO]

Royal Jordanian A320 heading into bfs now!!
Just a stop over?

[BFS watcher]

Royal Jordanian A320 heading into bfs now!!
Just a stop over?Refugee flight

[Refuellerman]

Could be wrong but I don't believe so, they've no ETOPS yet but I think they've no cap.

The etops has to have 3000 uninterrupted flying hours with no shutdowns, one max in edi s##t itself on the runway so that will be a reset

[owenc]

3,000 hours? We'll be waiting a long time if that's the case.

[Refuellerman]

3,000 hours? We'll be waiting a long time if that's the case.

3000 hours for all max aircraft not just Norwegian, but if only one has a boo boo then the clock is reset

[mart901]

https://www.belfastairport.com/blog-news/2017/august/belfast-international-airport-sees-roi-revenue-jump-250

[EGAC is Better]

https://www.belfastairport.com/blog-news/2017/august/belfast-international-airport-sees-roi-revenue-jump-250

A 135% increase in passengers from ROI have lead to a 250% increase in revenue 🤔

Great news for the airport, not so for the travelling public. A 250% increase on 135% more transactions suggests a heavy price hike. My car parking fees are £20 more expensive this weekend than they were in March, April and May.

[SecondDog]

A 135% increase in passengers from ROI have lead to a 250% increase in revenue 🤔

Great news for the airport, not so for the travelling public. A 250% increase on 135% more transactions suggests a heavy price hike. My car parking fees are £20 more expensive this weekend than they were in March, April and May.


Shouldn't really be a surprise in August should it?


Supply and Demand is surely a fundamental economic principle?

[True Blue]

I remember maybe 20 years ago we paid £300 plus for a return ticket to London, unless you were staying a Saturday night. Even then it wasn't that cheap. Now I can get a return flight for £30-40. One way that came about was the airlines have greatly reduced what they pay the airport. In the meantime, airport costs have hardly reduced,have they!? So how do airports square the circle other than through drop off charges, car parking etc? Really amuses me all those meeters and greeters who sit along the side of the road to avoid paying a £1 and completely forget that a few years ago many of the journeys they are making would not have been affordable. Those who know the price of everything and the value of nothing.

[SecondDog]

I remember maybe 20 years ago we paid £300 plus for a return ticket to London, unless you were staying a Saturday night. Even then it wasn't that cheap. Now I can get a return flight for £30-40. One way that came about was the airlines have greatly reduced what they pay the airport. In the meantime, airport costs have hardly reduced,have they!? So how do airports square the circle other than through drop off charges, car parking etc? Really amuses me all those meeters and greeters who sit along the side of the road to avoid paying a £1 and completely forget that a few years ago many of the journeys they are making would not have been affordable. Those who know the price of everything and the value of nothing.

Careful TB, cool clear logic like that doesn't always work on Pprune. What will people do if they cannot let hate and rage guide them in their thinking.....?!?

[AerRyan]

Sorry but I don't agree, just because we once had to pay extortion to fly to not so far destinations does not mean we should just accept whatever charges are thrown at us now.

If airports can't sustain themselves, airport fees will rise across the board and there's nothing LCC's can do about it.

[GAZMO]

If airport fees rise then LCC will either cut back or move operations to another airport if one close by
BFS will have to keep the like of FR and EZY sweet
DUB and a few other airports have the luxury of little or no competition

[A320.b744]

It looks like BFS management's 'Vote to Leave' advertising campaign in the Republic has paid off. 600,000 Irish passengers is a pretty impressive figure given that DUB is more convenient than BFS for most people in the border counties.

On a more general note; given that the July rolling 12 month figure is 5.73 million passengers, it seems a real possibility that next year BFS will handle 6 million passengers for the first time. Passenger figures for this year have already surpassed two targets (5.4 million and 5.6 million), and will almost certainly surpass the current target of 5.8 million passengers. That's a pretty amazing achievement given that just 3 years ago passenger numbers were stagnated at just 4 million.

[waffler]

I presume 600,000 is 300,000 return trips divided by multiple trips by some people so let's get real with these numbers and all numbers.

[GAZMO]

https://www.belfastairport.com/blog-news/2017/august/belfast-international-airport-contracts-nats-for-atc-and-engineering-services


For posters interest

[BFS BHD]

Could be nothing but the airport as started following Copenhagen Airport on twitter today...
Maybe a new route for Norwegian between the arrival and departure of the USA flights?

[GAZMO]

Would make better utilisation of the aircraft if Norweigan operated to Copenhagen .....lets hope

[A320.b744]

The current schedule would permit a x2-3 weekly year-round service and a x2 weekly summer seasonal service. I predict that if Norwegian do expand from BFS (which I believe is highly plausible), it'll be CPH plus a seasonal service to OSL/ARN.

[owenc]

That would be fantastic, it's about time we get a Scandinavian service.

[EI-BUD]

True Blue,
I completely agree with many points, though volume has grown hugely in the intervening years, and generally many functions have been outsourced stripping huge cost out if the system... retail concessions pay eye watering rents generally, and charge above the odds..


Gazmo,
I recognise BFS have done a strong job on cross border marketing, though this in view hasnt drove the number, the currency has been a big part, and the increases were well underway before the branding of buses etc started taking place..equally DAA had a big dublin campaign in NI, I think that didnt cause cross border business going south ..

And as for Dublin having no competition is a red herring, Ryanair run the rule over all EU bases before granting another ac, though I agree the NI landscape is intense, currently much to BHD's challenge ..

[EGAC is Better]

Shouldn't really be a surprise in August should it?


Supply and Demand is surely a fundamental economic principle?

No and yes. However an almost 75% increase in cost is taking liberties. Imagine the uproar if an enery supplier increased their prices by 75% over the winter due to 'supply and demand'.

I'm not complaining, I've used the airport more than enough (and got my money's worth) this year to write of the extra few quid to park in August. That said I feel for those people who save all year just to afford to get away once a year and then get whacked with an even higher cost for parking.

[SecondDog]

No and yes. However an almost 75% increase in cost is taking liberties. Imagine the uproar if an enery supplier increased their prices by 75% over the winter due to 'supply and demand'.

I'm not complaining, I've used the airport more than enough (and got my money's worth) this year to write of the extra few quid to park in August. That said I feel for those people who save all year just to afford to get away once a year and then get whacked with an even higher cost for parking.

A 75pc raise is only transient though and likely to be a reaction to the car park being near capacity to try and calm demand so it will be unlucky to hit that tyoe of charge. The comparison to the energy market is futile because of the captive market that exists at BIA for parking. If there were other parking establishments nearby, the cost would be driven down by competition. Why do you think they worked so hard to shut down Karl et al. Same as the City and Boal.

As for the 'poor people saving up for their one holiday' I think they will likely have booked early and kept the price down. To cap it all off, parking charges at BIA are as nothing compared to rates across the water.


Swings and roundabouts.

[owenc]

What do you mean by "Poor"? There's a sort of Elite vibe on this forum and one would get the impression that members are traveling and living the life of glitz of glam. I'm not sure how true that is. (I'm sure travel costs are covered by management)

My family fits into the bracket of holidaying 1-2 times a year, but we usually go for a minimum of 3 weeks and spend £5-£12,000. I don't think we're poor at all.

The parking costs, well that's just Northern Irish stinginess.

[EGAC is Better]

What do you mean by "Poor"? There's a sort of Elite vibe on this forum and one would get the impression that members are traveling and living the life of glitz of glam. I'm not sure how true that is. (I'm sure travel costs are covered by management)

My family fits into the bracket of holidaying 1-2 times a year, but we usually go for a minimum of 3 weeks and spend £5-£12,000. I don't think we're poor at all.

The parking costs, well that's just Northern Irish stinginess.

Figure of speach Owen, not meant in any way as elitist. Bad choice of word. What I should have said was I symapthise with people who work hard to just about afford to take a holiday.

For context, my travel through Aldergrove this year has been 75/25 personal vs company paid. My total £'s spent on said personal travel is considerably less than your potential £5-12k. Whilst I have flown a lot its not exactly living the life of glitz and glamour, I've just taken advantage of low fares on a new route.

[El Bunto]

I remember maybe 20 years ago we paid £300 plus for a return ticket to London, unless you were staying a Saturday night. Even then it wasn't that cheap. Now I can get a return flight for £30-40. Well yes if you're selective about what fares you pick and present then you can make any argument. You'll still spend £300 return to London if you need to travel urgently; ryanair.com wants £289 to fly to London this Friday and back on Saturday.

In the 1970s the Caledonian Moonjet overnight fare was £13 return for Belfast to London. BEA's overnight Vanguard seats were even cheaper, I believe.

Those weren't loss-leader or sale fares, they were printed in the timetables and available for every seat on every eligible flight. Where are the equivalent guaranteed bargain fares these days? Gone, 'revenue managed' out of existence in favour of a few cheap seats marketed heavily to those susceptible to advertising.

[True Blue]

I am anything but susceptible to advertising. By the way, your £13 fare in 1975 would be £100 in 2016. Check on the Bank of England inflation calculator.

[Skipness One Echo]

In the 1970s the Caledonian Moonjet overnight fare was £13 return for Belfast to London. BEA's overnight Vanguard seats were even cheaper, I believe.
Air fares were regulated and much more expensive in those days. Who in their right mind wanted to fly at those times anyway? No public transport at either end as well. Yield management drives the profits that are invested in the new equipment which opens new routes which drives the profits etc. Regulated air fares made sure the market was stagnant.

[owenc]

Your looking at about £85 on an average fair for a return journey to London these days.

[SecondDog]

What do you mean by "Poor"? There's a sort of Elite vibe on this forum and one would get the impression that members are traveling and living the life of glitz of glam. I'm not sure how true that is. (I'm sure travel costs are covered by management)

My family fits into the bracket of holidaying 1-2 times a year, but we usually go for a minimum of 3 weeks and spend £5-£12,000. I don't think we're poor at all.

The parking costs, well that's just Northern Irish stinginess.

Poor as in unfortunate to have their one trip in the peak season.

As for posters trying to show how elite they are, telling us that you holiday in 3 week spells and spend up to 12k would put you squarely in the bracket you are admonishing. You'll forgive me if I ignore your criticism as a result.

[AerRyan]

Thinly veiled "I am richer than you and don't insult the poor" post.

Really nothing to do with the topic at hand, and even so, taking the post at Owenc's interpretation, people of a lower income taking even a short trip to mainland UK probably wouldn't enjoy these car parking charges.

Also, I don't accept the argument of "We used to pay so much so we can't complain if we've to pay more now". It's insulting really to consumer rights and having progressive industries.

[GAZMO]

more jobs for next year
Jet2.com recruiting for 50 positions at Belfast International Airport - BelfastTelegraph.co.uk (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/jobs/jet2com-recruiting-for-50-positions-at-belfast-international-airport-36061474.html)

[True Blue]

This article refers to the addition of flights to Belfast from Birmingham and Stansted. Fact or badly written?

[GAZMO]

I would suggest badly written especially when you read the Jet2 announcement on their website and compare
Jet2.com announces over 1,700 jobs | Jet2.com (http://www.jet2.com/News/Jet2_com_announces_over_1700_jobs/)

[mart901]

VNO is on sale up to Oct 18. Twice weekly still, but summer sees it change to M/F which should be better for weekend breaks.

[A320.b744]

VNO is on sale up to Oct 18. Twice weekly still, but summer sees it change to M/F which should be better for weekend breaks.

Vilnius was Monday/Friday this summer as well. I doubt that Wizz would increase the frequency on the route any time soon - upgrading to an A321 for the full summer season would be the next logical step. I do think however that the horrible flight times are hindering growth on the service.

[BFS BHD]

So is Katowice gone for Wizz Air or will it be Summer Only?
Will they stay to operate just to Vilnius?
Would they add another route?
Or could this be the end of them at BFS...?

[A320.b744]

So is Katowice gone for Wizz Air or will it be Summer Only?
Will they stay to operate just to Vilnius?
Would they add another route?
Or could this be the end of them at BFS...?

Katowice has been axed completely, most likely due to the competition from easyJet and Ryanair on their route to Krakow, which is only an hour away from Katowice. It is worth noting that Wizz have already scrapped Belfast-Katowice once before - in 2008 - along with flights to Warsaw Chopin.

Vilnius seems to be performing quite well, though if Ryanair provide competition on the route I can see Wizz scrapping the route.

With regards to other routes, I would be surprised if Wizz went into direct competition with Ryanair on their Polish routes. Based on their routes from other UK airports, I believe that it's plausible that Wizz could start flights to Sofia, Bucharest and Budapest, though the clock is ticking for Wizz as Ryanair has a base at all three of these airports, and already flies to these cities from several other UK cities.

[BFS BHD]

Thanks for the information, hopefully they will stay at BFS even if it's only the one route they operate too.

[AerRyan]

I see no reason why they wouldn't, unbased aircraft, so hopefully they stick around.

[BFS BHD]

I see a Third flight on a Saturday to Geneva as been added by EasyJet for W17/18.

[GAZMO]

Advanced bookings for Geneva must be going well. Nice to see them adding extra flights, even if it is just one!

[Refuellerman]

Advanced bookings for Geneva must be going well. Nice to see them adding extra flights, even if it is just one!
Might even be a a320 swiss reg😲😲🇨🇭🇨🇭

[A320.b744]

Did Jet2 not scrap their Geneva route recently? Before people start making a song and dance about this additional weekly frequency, last year's passenger figure for Geneva was 23,227. If all flights this year are operated by an A319, there are only 22,464 seats for sale. Even if one weekly flight is operated by an A320 throughout the season (which is not the case), there would only be 23,124 available seats which is still less than the total number of passengers last year. By the looks of things we'll see a fourth year (and probably fifth year given most of the season is in 2018) of decline on the Geneva route.

[yeo valley]

GVA seems to do well from airports in the UK. BRS in the winter time has 5 flights on a Saturday and all full.

[Refuellerman]

I remember gva running 5 days with ezy with a double run on saturdays, think they are trying to make it weekends only

[BFS BHD]

Looks like Newburgh is down from 3 weekly to 2 weekly for Summer 18.

Providence still 2 weekly.

[True Blue]

I think Norwegian just extend the winter season into the summer season at the same frequencies, then add the additional summer flights later. I would not take the 2 pw as the finished article.

[PPRuNeUser0176]

I think Norwegian just extend the winter season into the summer season at the same frequencies, then add the additional summer flights later. I would not take the 2 pw as the finished article.

Maybe but they have just swapped SNN and BFS schedules for 2018 which may suggest it could be the schedule. EDI is also down from 7 to 5 weekly and it would suggest if Cork happens it would be twice weekly unless they increase the number of aircraft.

[owenc]

Why is it always members from Dublin who are the first to spread any sign of negative news?

[AerRyan]

Why is it always members from Dublin who are the first to spread any sign of negative news?

Didn't a user called BFS BHD spread the news first?

Anyway, maybe because ye are all too busy fighting about flags and place names ;) (Just a joke btw)

[Refuellerman]

Didn't a user called BFS BHD spread the news first?

Anyway, maybe because ye are all too busy fighting about flags and place names ;) (Just a joke btw)
Not funny old man 🤣🤣

[Startledgrapefruit]

Not funny old man 🤣🤣


lol lamao wmp ;);););):ok::ok::ok::):):):):)


Come on lets get over the flags and place names thing. its old and not beautiful

[Refuellerman]

lol lamao wmp ;);););):ok::ok::ok::):):):):)


Come on lets get over the flags and place names thing. its old and not beautiful

And the politician's are not fine, lol🤣🤣🤣🤣🚀

[GAZMO]

Back to airline news!!!

https://www.belfastairport.com/blog-news/2017/august/norwegian-celebrates-15th-birthday-with-special-sale-offering-belfast-usa-flights-from-99-one-way

[True Blue]

A few weeks ago, it was posted on here that TCX was starting Antalya again next summer. It does appear in the timetable section of their site, but has never been released for sale. Anyone know why?

[A320.b744]

A few weeks ago, it was posted on here that TCX was starting Antalya again next summer. It does appear in the timetable section of their site, but has never been released for sale. Anyone know why?

Flights and holidays are currently on sale on the Thomas Cook website.

[BFS BHD]

Returning from the 27th March 2018 at two weekly. (Tuesday & Saturday)

[A320.b744]

Returning from the 27th March 2018 at two weekly. (Tuesday & Saturday)

Not a complete disaster then. The dreadful flight times unfortunately remain unchanged.

[mart901]

Well that's good news. At least it's not a route totally lost. I suppose having an A321 on the route through winter was a step to far with all the competition

[True Blue]

Yes, Antalya is available if you select any Turkey for a holiday, but does not seem to be available on the Flythomascook site for flight only.

[GAZMO]

You could always try Jet2 to Antalya

[mart901]

It's on the TCX flight timetable so maybe an error or just not yet been loaded. Has anyone heard anything more about TCX using another operator for BFS next year?

[GAZMO]

From TCX thread it is going to be a leased aircraft
No mention of the operator although hints at Eastern European airline

[BFS BHD]

Anyone know what work is being done near runway 17?
The runway is close from 0600-1700 everyday to Friday going by the NOTAMs.
The work seems to be taken place to the right of the runway 17 threshold...

[BFS BHD]

Berlin - down to 2 weekly. (Thurs & Sun)

Faro - not showing yet

Malta - 2 weekly (New for Summer)

Further changes likely in the coming weeks... full announcement due in a few weeks I think.

[A320.b744]

I'm not at all surprised that Berlin is down to 2 weekly. The highest load factor was in June (82%), but every other month it has been 67%-75%. Hopefully this move will prevent the route from being axed altogether (again).

[EGAC is Better]

Berlin - down to 2 weekly. (Thurs & Sun)

Faro - not showing yet

Malta - 2 weekly (New for Summer)

Further changes likely in the coming weeks... full announcement due in a few weeks I think.

Girona seems to be loaded into the booking engine from 26 March 2018 with the same times as this year. Not bookable though, "Too late! This flight is sold out" for any dates next year.

[GAZMO]

Looks like most flights now loaded although not all available for booking yet
Milan twice Weekly - Wed Sat
Gdansk (2), Warsaw(2), Krakow(3), Wroclaw (2) same as this summer
Alicante and Malaga five weekly same as this summer
Girona twice weekly same as this summer
Gatwick four daily same as this summer
Malta twice weekly NEW
Berlin twice weekly
TFS and ACE twice weekly same as this summer
Faro not loaded


No sign of the third aircraft!!!!!!

[PPRuNeUser0176]

There is probally no sign of it because it would go against their policy towards the UK or at least what they tell the media.

[LondonCityBoy]

Apologies if it's been discussed here before but what is the likely Summer 18 EZY schedule for BFS going to be, specifically I'm interest in PMI?

[GAZMO]

Hopefully the schedule will be out soon
If similar to this year then 10 weekly flights, double daily on Monday, Friday and Saturday
FYI Jet2 fly six weekly to PMI as well plus a couple from TCX and TOM

[BFS BHD]

Apologies if it's been discussed here before but what is the likely Summer 18 EZY schedule for BFS going to be, specifically I'm interest in PMI?

25th March - 24th June 2018 to be released late this month and possibly 25th June - 2nd September 2018 along with it. Be confusing on their schedule release page: Flight schedule release dates | easyJet (http://www.easyjet.com/en/schedule-release)

[BFS BHD]

Talk on Shannon and Dublin Airports that there is going to be announcements regarding new and increase routes to Canada this week.
I'm guessing Belfast is missing out on any new routes to Canada as usual... :rolleyes:

[AerRyan]

So is Derry, Knock, Kerry, Waterford, Cork. Your point?

[A320.b744]

So is Derry, Knock, Kerry, Waterford, Cork. Your point?

I think the point he's making is that just 10 years ago, over 50,000 passengers flew from Belfast to Canada, suggesting that the demand is there for at least a seasonal route. The likes of WestJet and Air Canada Rouge have expanded their UK/Ireland offering over the last few years, but Belfast has thus far been kept off their route maps.

[AerRyan]

Markets change, especially with the building of new motorways and the likes. You can't really be sure of a Belfast market, especially coming into Brexit. If there was such a market, the question that must be asked is why is there no operator now?

Something like West Jet would be ideal , only a matter of time before they come imo.

[mart901]

https://www.belfastairport.com/blog-news/2017/september/better-value-belfast-international-airport-targets-dublin-in-phase-two-of-roi-ad-campaign

[owenc]

A 1.8 millon airport v a 5.8 million airport. I wonder which one is better for demand?

[AerRyan]

Showing a complete lack of understanding Owenc. Back to the colouring books for you.

[A320.b744]

One thing I would point out from a demand point of view is that SNN has transatlantic flights operated by all thee major alliances. BFS currently has no transatlantic hub connections. A substantial number of BFS-EWR passengers used the service to connect to other US/Canadian destinations, meaning Air Canada would benefit from these connecting passengers more so than they would if operating to SNN.

And to rephrase what owenc was trying to say; BFS has a 60 min catchment area of 1.4 million and a 120 min catchment area of 2 million people. SNN on the other hand has a 60 min catchment area of 0.58 million, and a 120 min catchment area of 0.95 million.

And let's not forget as well that when BFS was last served from Canada, the majority of passengers were Northern Irish people travelling to Canada. Belfast (and NI as a whole) is now becoming more of a tourist destination, meaning passenger numbers would be less lopsided.

[canberra97]

Although not relevant I work for Princess Cruises and based on recent customer feedback regarding the British Isles cruises currently undertaken every 12 days round trip from Southampton on the Caribbean Princess with a maximum capacity of 3,227 passengers Belfast came top of the destinations passengers would more likely return to going by satisfaction levels followed by Dublin and Liverpool so that's just an example to show how popular Belfast is to inward tourism and can only improve in the future and many of those passengers were from Canada the USA as well as from the Far East including Chinese, Japanese and Taiwanese.

Residents of Northern Ireland should be aware of how important tourism is and how popular it is to foreign visitors and BFS should be actively marketing the airport especially regarding a return of Canadian flights.

[Refuellerman]

A 1.8 millon airport v a 5.8 million airport. I wonder which one is better for demand?

Back to youre question on the Londonderry thread i am 49 years old, be4 u had it closed down cause u cant take any criticism, baby 😢😢

[AerRyan]

Back to youre question on the Londonderry thread i am 49 years old, be4 u had it closed down cause u cant take any criticism, baby 😢😢

I honestly cannot think of a poster more annoying than you.

You can't really compare to Shannon, it's a fairly unique market. It performs extremely well with the US market, filling flights and maintaining high yields for most months of the year. This constant comparison of "but Belfast has more passengers" is a complete denial to recognise that the markets are vastly different. Shannon compares very poorly in EU and UK routes compared to Knock and Cork, it's a unique market.

You've airports in the UK like Bristol (7.6mil) and Newcastle (4.8million) that also cannot gain US services. Worth mentioning that Newcastle has a niece of Dubai.

Every airport has a very different market, this seems to not only be ignored on here, but for the contrary to be made a point of, and a childlike tantrum of a stomp on the floor "THAT AIRPORT HAS THIS SO WHY CANT WE"

Better understanding of routes, how they're selected and how routes work, as well as markets, how they develop, how they can die, how other airports can serve them. It's not as simple as slicing off vast areas of land and saying all these people should fly from here.

[Refuellerman]

I honestly cannot think of a poster more annoying than you.

You can't really compare to Shannon, it's a fairly unique market. It performs extremely well with the US market, filling flights and maintaining high yields for most months of the year. This constant comparison of "but Belfast has more passengers" is a complete denial to recognise that the markets are vastly different. Shannon compares very poorly in EU and UK routes compared to Knock and Cork, it's a unique market.

You've airports in the UK like Bristol (7.6mil) and Newcastle (4.8million) that also cannot gain US services. Worth mentioning that Newcastle has a niece of Dubai.

Every airport has a very different market, this seems to not only be ignored on here, but for the contrary to be made a point of, and a childlike tantrum of a stomp on the floor "THAT AIRPORT HAS THIS SO WHY CANT WE"

Better understanding of routes, how they're selected and how routes work, as well as markets, how they develop, how they can die, how other airports can serve them. It's not as simple as slicing off vast areas of land and saying all these people should fly from here.
Indeed air ryan

[GAZMO]

I was reading yesterdays BT about the new advertising campaign in ROI and posters can read at the link below, but I wish BT would get a more up to date photo when they post an article about BFS. Photo shows queue for Air Transat (to Canada) and Jet2 advert ( to Blackpool). ....when did these routes end.


Maybe BFS management can send them one


Aldergrove in bid to 'poach' Dublin trade - BelfastTelegraph.co.uk (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/aldergrove-in-bid-to-poach-dublin-trade-36118339.html)

[mwm991]

I honestly cannot think of a poster more annoying than you.

You can't really compare to Shannon, it's a fairly unique market. It performs extremely well with the US market, filling flights and maintaining high yields for most months of the year. This constant comparison of "but Belfast has more passengers" is a complete denial to recognise that the markets are vastly different. Shannon compares very poorly in EU and UK routes compared to Knock and Cork, it's a unique market.

You've airports in the UK like Bristol (7.6mil) and Newcastle (4.8million) that also cannot gain US services. Worth mentioning that Newcastle has a niece of Dubai.

Every airport has a very different market, this seems to not only be ignored on here, but for the contrary to be made a point of, and a childlike tantrum of a stomp on the floor "THAT AIRPORT HAS THIS SO WHY CANT WE"

Better understanding of routes, how they're selected and how routes work, as well as markets, how they develop, how they can die, how other airports can serve them. It's not as simple as slicing off vast areas of land and saying all these people should fly from here.
Well said. The airport cheerleading that goes on here and other parts of the web is embarrassing. Its an airport not a football team ffs.

[BFS BHD]

Landmark case could see Belfast International win £1m+ rate refund - BelfastTelegraph.co.uk (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/landmark-case-could-see-belfast-international-win-1m-rate-refund-36124747.html)

[SecondDog]

Well said. The airport cheerleading that goes on here and other parts of the web is embarrassing. Its an airport not a football team ffs.

Yeah because it is totally unreasonable for people to be supportive of Belfast International on a thread called Belfast International. And how dare the airport make an attempt at attracting more passengers (regardless of your opinions on the likely success of the campaign) And woah big there Nelly, why are some people actually being positive in supporting their local airport and consequently their local economy etc.

I see your ffs and raise you a 'Shut up' in a towie stylee

[AerRyan]

There's supporting, and there's begrudging every other airport because they have something BFS does.

Performs very well considering the economic state of NI imo.

[owenc]

Economic state of Northern Ireland? Look at the shape of Limerick!

Your route is subsidised by Irish American tourists, not the local economy. If you did not have the Irish disapora, you would be lucky to have a single Tranatlantic route from Shannon.

[AerRyan]

Limerick and Galway are doing great, growing massively in the last few years. I'd assume you're basing this on a few lovely preconceptions ;)

However, this is again what I mean by the petty attitude, what does it matter how Limerick is doing?

[AerRyan]

Your route is subsidised by Irish American tourists, not the local economy. If you did not have the Irish disapora, you would be lucky to have a single Tranatlantic route from Shannon.

This is quite funny, subsidized ;)

That awful LDY-STN route is subsidized by those awful Derry people.

Seriously, get a grip Owen!

[owenc]

Limerick and Galway are doing great, growing massively in the last few years. I'd assume you're basing this on a few lovely preconceptions ;)

However, this is again what I mean by the petty attitude, what does it matter how Limerick is doing?

The market is not home grown, you are relying on American tourists.

[AerRyan]

The market is mainly inbound, yes.

Your point?

[Refuellerman]

The market is mainly inbound, yes.

Your point?

Again belfast international airport is wat this thread is about, obviously there is people that don't give a f##k about it and whither on about ireland this, derry that, dublin thon, belfast news or no news

[owenc]

Well, it's actually in Antrim but anyway.