Belfast International handles some late flights, especially budget airlines. Here's what's available when you land after dark.
What's available at night
| Transport | Available? | Last service | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Express 300 | Until ~midnight | Last bus ~11:45 PM | £8.00 adult single |
| Taxi | Yes, 24/7 | Usually available | Metered, on the higher night/weekend rates |
| Pre-booked transfer | Yes | Driver waiting | Fixed when you book |
| Uber | Unreliable at night | — | Quoted in the app |
Fixed-price private transfer
BFS Belfast City Center
From€90for 2 passengers
Other destinations
The last Airport Express
The Airport Express 300 runs until approximately 11:45 PM (last departure). If your flight lands before 11 PM, you should make the last bus. Check the current Translink timetable for exact times.
After the last bus, there's no public transport from BFS to Belfast.
Taxis at night
Taxis are usually available at BFS after late flights, but the supply is smaller than during the day. On a busy Friday night with multiple delayed flights, you might wait 15-20 minutes.
Late-night fares are legitimately higher than daytime, and that is not a driver improvising: the Department for Infrastructure's tariff has separate night and weekend bands. Rate 2 (Mon-Thu 20:00-06:00) is £5.10 for the first mile and £2.03 per mile after; Rate 3 (Fri 20:00 to Mon 06:00) starts at £6.10. The meter still applies, capped at those rates — you are not expected to negotiate.
Pre-booked transfer — recommended for late arrivals
For flights arriving after 10 PM, a pre-booked transfer is the most reliable option:
- Driver tracks your flight — there if you're delayed
- Waiting at arrivals with your name
- Fixed price — no late-night premium surprises
- No waiting in a potentially empty taxi rank
The premium over a metered taxi is modest, and the certainty is valuable at midnight.
Safety
Belfast International Airport is safe and the route into Belfast (A26/M2) is a well-lit dual carriageway. Belfast city center at night is generally safe, with busy entertainment districts around the Cathedral Quarter.
If you need to wait until morning
The airport has limited overnight facilities:
- The terminal stays open while flights operate but may close in the early hours
- No sleeping pods or airport hotel inside the terminal
- Park Plaza Belfast International Airport is nearby but requires a taxi
- Maldron Hotel Belfast International — walking distance from terminal
If you have a very late arrival and early morning connection, these nearby hotels are your best option — check current rates directly with them.