'For the many business leaders who travel through the airport each day, time is critical': Northern Ireland chartered accountant lands Belfast 'Fast Track' deal

Grant Thornton Northern Ireland and Belfast City Airport have announced a new partnership, with the firm becoming the official sponsor of the airport’s Fast Track Security service.

The collaboration demonstrates how leading Northern Ireland companies are working together to support business growth and connectivity.

One of Northern Ireland’s leading business advisory firms, Grant Thornton has continued to demonstrate strong growth in the region, creating more than 70 new roles in its Belfast office last year.

In January 2025, the firm joined the Grant Thornton Advisors multinational platform, which was established by Grant Thornton LLC in the US and has since expanded rapidly. This growth has been supported through strategic transactions with high performing professional services firms across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region.

Richard Gillan, managing partner at Grant Thornton Northern Ireland, said: “Partnering with Belfast City Airport on Fast Track Security brings together two organisations with a shared focus on efficiency and progress. This partnership is about more than visibility, it reflects our long-term commitment to supporting Northern Ireland’s business community.

“For the many business leaders who travel through the airport each day, time is critical. This sponsorship reflects our focus on supporting clients as they navigate an increasingly complex economic environment.”

As a key hub for business travel, Belfast City Airport connects Northern Ireland’s business community with destinations across the UK and beyond while also providing a powerful advertising platform for organisations seeking to engage with a high-value audience.

Katy Best, chief commercial officer at Belfast City Airport, added: “Belfast City Airport serves as a gateway for Northern Ireland’s business sector, and equally as a strategic advertising environment for organisations looking to connect with a highly engaged and influential audience.

“Fast Track Security is an important service for many of our passengers, particularly those travelling on business who value an even quicker and more efficient journey through the airport. This sponsorship reflects a strong alignment with Grant Thornton Northern Ireland, a firm that works with organisations across a wide range of industries and plays a significant role in supporting the region’s economic growth.”

The partnership reflects Belfast City Airport’s continued focus on improving the passenger experience in collaboration with local business. As part of the sponsorship agreement, Grant Thornton’s branding is showcased throughout the Fast Track Security area, including prominent signage designed to maximise visibility and reinforce the firm’s presence within the airport environment.