Europe’s largest airport lounge provider, Aspire, has unveiled its new and improved lounge at Belfast City Airport, following a £1.2m investment.

Created by concept design specialist DV8 Designs, the refurbishment has seen the lounge capacity increase by 70 people to accommodate 178 seats.

Welcoming the lounge upgrade, Katy Best, commercial director at Belfast City Airport, said: “It’s fantastic to see the completed Aspire Lounge, which sets a new standard for premium travel in Northern Ireland.

“Passengers travelling through Belfast City Airport throughout the summer and beyond can avail of an even more comfortable and tranquil start to their journey heightened by stunning views of the runway, comfortable seating, and complimentary food and drinks available in the Aspire Lounge.

“The final result is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional facilities and service to our passengers, truly elevating the travel experience and offering a seamless blend of luxury and convenience.”

Aspire Lounge unveiled at Belfast City

The refurbished space is the only Aspire Lounge in Northern Ireland

Sense of place

Drawing inspiration from the iconic Giant’s Causeway, the lounge features LED lighting that creates a strong sense of place, while the use of tile and slatted curved screens and a warm colour palette evokes a tranquil atmosphere.

Graham Allen, head of Aspire Lounges UK and Ireland, added: “We are excited to unveil our new Aspire Lounge at George Best Belfast City Airport which showcases the Aspire brand and the rich culture of Belfast and beyond. The new lounge offers business travellers, families and individuals a welcoming, relaxing and energising experience before their flight, in a comfortable lounge that is recognisably Aspire, with a distinct sense of place.

“Guests can enjoy an enhanced food and beverage offering, work from purpose-built booths, or relax and soak up the view of the airfield and the surroundings.”

The Aspire Lounge at George Best Belfast City Airport is part of the rapidly growing list of 63 Swissport lounges at 38 airports worldwide which together welcome more than seven million guests each year. The lounge is the only Aspire Lounge in Northern Ireland and one of 13 Aspire Lounges in the UK and Ireland.

Belfast City Airport is owned by a fund managed by 3i.

Images: Belfast City Airport