News from August 2007

‘Bussing’ it to the Airport

Published: 31 August 2007

New hourly service for Lisburn and Antrim passengers.

For passengers in the Lisburn and Antrim areas using public transport to get to and from the International Airport is set to become a truly viable alternative to driving or getting a lift.

From Monday 3 September 2007 a new Ulsterbus (109A) service will operate hourly from 6am - 6pm, Monday to Saturday between Lisburn Rail Station, Belfast International Airport and Antrim Bus Station.

The move follows the introduction of a series of initiatives and new Airport services by Translink in a bid to offer passengers a range of reliable, cost effective and environmentally friendly public transport options.  Its programme of Airport service enhancements have included the introduction of 'early bird' services from Belfast to Dublin Airport, enhanced links between Derry and Dublin Airport and the introduction of 24-hour services from Belfast to the International Airport.

Translink's local District Manager, Martin Lundy said that the introduction of the new route, serving Belfast International Airport from Lisburn and Antrim, would benefit passengers right across the North East and South East of the province.

"As well as people in Lisburn and Antrim, those currently living in North and East Antrim and South and South East Down will also be able to take advantage of the new service, as for many it will be quicker and easier to travel to Lisburn or Antrim than rather than to Belfast to avail of public transport services to the Airport," he said.

"Importantly the service is operated by low floor vehicles which offer easy access for families with small children and those travelling with luggage.

"We are also pleased to announce that to celebrate the launch of this new route, we are offering special introductory fares of £6 monthly return between Lisburn and the Airport and £3 monthly return between Antrim and the Airport.  These fares will be available from 3 September until 31 October 2007.  During this period we are also removing the initial £1.50 to purchase Translink Smartlink cards, which means passengers only pay to top up their journeys.  Smartlink offers a cost effective alternative for frequent flyers or staff working in and around the airport."

Lisburn City Council Mayor, Councillor James Tinsley, said he was delighted at the introduction of the new service.  "This new service will enable easier and speedier access to and from the International Airport for many of our residents and visitors.  With the service stopping in Glenavy and Upper Ballinderry it will also provide an important link for our rural communities, improving their transportation network via this much needed service," said Cllr Tinsley.

Deputy Mayor of Antrim, Cllr Oran Keenan, also welcomed the new service saying, "I would like to commend Translink for this latest initiative.  It is very good news for those people travelling from Antrim and Lisburn to the International Airport. There's no doubt that low cost airfares and an increasing number of destinations accessible from Belfast International Airport have resulted in growing passengers figures.  Inevitably, this has a knock-on effect for the roads leading to the airport and parking.  The cost-effective option to travel by public transport will give economic benefit not only passengers but also those who work at the airport as well as helping the environment by reducing the number of cars on the road."

For further information on Translink timetables or to receive timetables in a range of alternative formats call 028 9066 6630 or click www.translink.co.uk. Passengers with hearing difficulties can also contact textphone 028 9038 7505.