AQW 8370/17-22

Mr John Blair
Alliance Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 07/10/2020
Answered On Date: 14/10/2020
Priority Written: Yes

Question:
To ask the Minister of Finance what measures his Department is taking to ensure the sustainability of Belfast International Airport.

Answer:

In May I announced 100% rates relief for Belfast International (BIA), Belfast City & City of Derry airports until 31 March 2021, worth £2.2m in total, and £1.7m to BIA in particular. In June the Executive also agreed to further support to the airports given the material losses they are suffering. I have separately pressed the Treasury to ensure that they provide the maximum possible support to the industry locally. This includes calling for the abolition of Air Passenger Duty (APD).

My Department has been, and continues to engage with the airports, and the Economy and Infrastructure Departments locally, and the Department for Transport in London who are each responsible for various aspects of aviation. My Department is happy to consider any proposals for further support that may be brought forward for approval.