No Drama Travel: Derry to Belfast International Airport Guide

6th May 2026

There's nothing quite like the excitement of an upcoming trip away. Whether you're packing up for a sunny family holiday or grabbing a quick weekend city break with your friends, there's nothing like that holiday countdown. But let’s be honest, the logistics of actually getting to the airport can quickly drain any pre-holiday fun.
If you're looking for a direct bus from Derry/L'Derry to Belfast International Airport, you're in the right place. Our goal is to take the hassle out of your journey from Derry/L'Derry so you can start your holiday the right way.
In this guide, we'll compare your main transport options to the airport (car, train and coach) and show you exactly why letting Aircoach handle the driving is the most straightforward, reliable and affordable way to kick off your trip.

Why Fly from Belfast International Airport?

Belfast International Airport serves as a major travel hub in Northern Ireland, connecting locals and tourists alike to destinations across the globe. With dozens of flights taking off daily, having a reliable way to get there is key.
While flight schedules can occasionally shift, especially with the upcoming summer season and fuel shortage concerns, plenty of flights are expected to continue operating smoothly in and out of Belfast International.
But because of this busy schedule and potential complications, it's more important than ever to have a dependable travel plan. You need to know you can get to your flight on time without any added stress.

Weighing Up Your Travel Options

When planning your route to the airport, you generally have three main choices. Here is a look at how they compare.

Taking the Car

For many people, driving is the go-to option. The journey from Derry to Belfast International takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which sounds manageable on paper. However, driving comes with hidden stressors.
You have to navigate the unpredictable weather and traffic of the Glenshane Pass. On top of that, you are dealing with the rising cost of fuel and increasingly expensive airport parking fees. By the time you find a parking spot and haul your bags to the terminal, you'll already feel exhausted and might even have had an argument or 2 with your back seat drivers.

Catching the Train

Taking the train offers some lovely scenery, with the trip taking roughly two hours. But while it's a nice way to travel, it's not the most practical option for an airport run. The route is not direct. You have to navigate connections and drag heavy luggage between platforms, which adds unwanted friction to your travel day.
It's just not the most straightforward option, especially when you have a great alternative...

The Aircoach Advantage (705X)

If you want to skip the driving and the hassle of connections, the 705X is your answer as the direct bus from Derry to Belfast International Airport.
We run up to 22 times a day, 364 days a year. When you step on board, you get guaranteed reclining seats, plenty of luggage storage, free Wi-Fi, and charging points. It's the simple, practical way to travel.

Why Choose Aircoach for Your Airport Transfer?

Other than being the most practical way to get there? We see ourselves as the crucial bit in the middle of your journey. We take responsibility for the travel so you can focus on your trip.

Reliability and Comfort

You don't have to worry about traffic jams, missed connections or finding a parking space. We handle the driving, meaning you can just sit back and relax in comfort.

Cost-Effectiveness

Travelling should not break the bank before you even leave the country. Our fares are highly affordable, starting at just £13/€15. We also offer great ways to save:

  • Young Person Fare: 20% off for 14- to 21-year-olds.
  • Family Discount: 10% off for 2 adults and 2 children when you book online.

Unbeatable Convenience

When you book the Derry to Belfast International Airport bus, you get a completely direct service. We drop you off right outside the terminal at Coach Park Bay 3. No shuttle buses or long walks from remote parking lots required.

Focus on You

Instead of stressing over sat-navs and road signs, you can use your travel time for yourself. Read a book, double-check your itinerary, listen to a podcast or just enjoy a peaceful pre-flight nap.

Where to Catch Your Coach

We want to make boarding as easy as possible, so we offer three convenient pickup locations in the Derry area:

  • Foyleside Coach Park: Located right in the city centre, making it easy to reach if you live in town.
  • Drumahoe Park and Ride: Perfect for those living on the outskirts who want to park their cars locally.
  • Maghera Park and Ride: A convenient stop along the route for a quick and easy boarding experience.

 Booking Your Ticket

We like to keep things straightforward. While contactless payment is available on board with our drivers, booking your ticket online is the smartest move.
Booking online guarantees your seat on the coach, secures the best value fare and automatically applies our Family Discount if you are traveling with the kids. It removes one more task from your travel day to-do list.

Start Your Holiday Before You Even Reach the Gate

Getting to the airport doesn't have to be a chore. The 705X express service is the ultimate stress-free, affordable choice for getting from Derry to Belfast International Airport. We're here to get you there safely, and we'll be waiting right outside the terminal to bring you home when you get back.
Ready to cross the airport transfer off your list? Book your Aircoach ticket online today and start your trip the right way.

 

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