AER Lingus could well choose Belfast International Airport as the location of its new UK base.

The move, part of the National Carriers expansion programme, could mean around 15 new European routes and the re-instatement of the Belfast International to Heathrow link.

The story first emerged in February when the Irish Times reported Aer Lingus were considering launching a new short haul base.

At the time the paper said Belfast was one of five UK cities under consideration the others being Heathrow, Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow. Now, apparently, the shortlist has been narrowed to just two - Belfast International and Birmingham, with a decision expected early this month (July).

If Belfast gets the green light, Aer Lingus services could begin as early as January 2008.

Last month, in an address to the chamber of Commerce in Belfast, former Chief Executive of Aer Lingus Willie Walsh urged his former company to set up its new base at Belfast International Airport.

Walsh, now British Airways Chief Executive, told business representatives that he would have done it two years ago and he encouraged them "to do it quickly".

Aer Lingus Commercial Director, Enda Corneille confirmed that Aer Lingus was looking to establish a base outside Ireland, "perhaps in Birmingham, Glasgow, Manchester or Belfast."

Managing Director of Belfast International Airport John Doran confirmed that frequent communication was taking place with a host of potential airlines - Aer Lingus among them. Regarding Aer Lingus, Mr Doran said he was "hopeful of a positive outcome".

At the time of going to Press BIA was cautious about a proposed date for the decision with a spokesperson saying: "as you know we talk to airlines all the times and we are constantly in discussions to develop our business".

An International Airport source confirmed that the Airport was still very much in the frame - with a decision between Birmingham and Belfast expected shortly.

If Belfast is chosen, resumption of a Belfast International to Heathrow service would be a priority - possibility with a BA codeshare. This would enable passengers from BIAL to connect seamlessly with BA's worldwide routes from Heathrow. This has not been possible since British Airways axed its Heathrow service shortly after 9/11..

Politically, the DUP has welcomed the news and Jeffrey Donaldson MP MLA said that the party endorsed the efforts to attract Aer Lingus and recognised that the move has the potential to generate hundreds of new jobs.

He said: "Aer Lingus is a respected carrier with its eye on growth opportunities in the United Kingdom; meanwhile the International airport is growing its business at an impressive rate.

The proposed move also comes at a time when the Open Skies Deal is set to allow American carriers access to all European Airports and Aer Lingus recently purchased 12 airbus jets in a bid to expand its service to the United States.