Belfast City Airport Invests in Skills Development with Expanded Apprenticeship Opportunities
(IN SHORT) Belfast City Airport has welcomed six new apprentices to its High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme, including roles in both the Fire and Rescue Service and IT. The programme, now in its 12th year, aims to develop future aviation professionals while addressing youth unemployment. With a strong track record of participants moving into full-time roles, the initiative provides hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications. The recent expansion into IT reflects the airport’s evolving workforce needs and commitment to building a skilled, future-ready team.
(PRESS RELEASE) BELFAST, 2026-Apr-21 — /Travel PR News/ — Belfast City Airport has welcomed six new participants to its High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to developing future talent within the aviation sector. The latest intake reflects the airport’s continued investment in workforce development and skills training.
The programme has recently been expanded to include a new IT apprenticeship role, introduced in 2025, alongside five positions within the airport’s Fire and Rescue Service. This broader scope allows apprentices to gain experience across both operational safety and technical functions, supporting the evolving needs of the aviation industry.
The newly appointed apprentices—Daniel Burke, Liam Cunning, Daniel Fusco, Jordan McDowell, Ethan McKee, and Paul McNally—will gain practical, hands-on experience while working towards recognised industry qualifications. Their training spans real-world operational environments, offering exposure to both emergency response and IT systems critical to airport operations.
Aileen O’Kane, Head of People and Purpose at Belfast City Airport, highlighted the importance of the initiative in building a skilled and future-ready workforce. She noted that the programme creates meaningful career pathways for young people, equipping them with specialist skills while supporting the airport’s long-term development.
Now in its twelfth year, the High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme was originally introduced to address youth unemployment in Northern Ireland and to establish a steady pipeline of trained professionals for the aviation industry. Since its inception, the programme has maintained a strong track record, with all participants progressing into permanent roles upon completion.
Apprentices involved in the programme have emphasized the value of real-world learning. Daniel Fusco described the opportunity to work alongside experienced firefighters as a key step in building a long-term career in aviation safety, while Jordan McDowell highlighted the unique hands-on experience gained within the airport’s IT environment.
Through this initiative, Belfast City Airport continues to strengthen its role in nurturing talent, supporting both individual career development and the broader growth of the aviation sector.
Media contact:
Lighthouse Communications:
info@lighthouseni.com or
+44 (0)2890 397824 during business hours
SOURCE: Belfast City Airport
