The draft programme for government, published on Monday, outlines a proposal to collaborate with the UK Government in supporting a pre-clearance facility at Belfast International Airport for US-bound flights.

This idea seems to be inspired by Dublin Airport, where a purpose-built pre-clearance facility allows passengers traveling to the US to complete immigration, customs, and agricultural checks before arriving in America.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly discussed the proposal during an Executive Office question session with DUP MLA David Brooks. She emphasized the importance of connectivity for economic growth, noting that the programme for government includes plans to improve connectivity and address any barriers.

She highlighted the proposal for extending pre-clearance to Belfast International as an “exciting and ambitious” step towards restoring direct flights to the US. “The extension of pre-clearance would certainly encourage that,” she said.

Mr. Brooks underscored the significance of the US as a key partner for Northern Ireland, both in terms of investment and cultural ties, such as with the Ulster Scots and Irish diaspora. He called the reinstatement of a transatlantic flight a “worthy goal.”

Ms. Little-Pengelly agreed, describing the loss of the direct route as significant. She reaffirmed the Executive’s commitment to exploring all available options to bring back the service, adding that US investors often cite the lack of direct flights as an obstacle to further investment.

Securing a direct flight would be beneficial for both business and tourism, she concluded.