Birmingham Airport has revealed ambitious plans to transform its departures terminal with the addition of three new hospitality units and a new executive business lounge, marking a significant step in enhancing the passenger experience at one of the UK’s fastest-growing regional hubs.
Reimagined Airside Space Takes Shape
The redevelopment will reconfigure airside space between Gates 1 to 20 and the main Departures Lounge, creating a seamless connection across the terminal while expanding dining, relaxation and business facilities for travellers.
The newly redesigned airside area will form a central walkway linking all parts of the departures terminal, improving passenger flow and accessibility. Birmingham Airport has released concept imagery showing a brighter, more open space featuring increased natural light and uninterrupted runway views, replacing the existing departures lounge layout.
Designed to cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, the expanded hospitality offering reflects evolving passenger expectations. From quick bites to sit-down dining, the airport aims to provide a more varied pre-flight experience while reducing congestion during peak travel periods.
In addition to dining options, the transformation includes a new executive lounge, created specifically to meet the needs of the airport’s growing business travel market.
Wagamama to Make BHX Debut
One of the standout additions is Wagamama, one of the UK’s most popular casual dining brands, which will open its first restaurant at Birmingham Airport later this summer. The 363-square-metre venue will seat up to 180 diners and offer the chain’s signature pan-Asian menu, including ramen, rice bowls and plant-based dishes.
Early morning travellers will also benefit from a travel-exclusive breakfast menu, combining Asian fusion flavours with traditional breakfast favourites, an increasingly popular feature at airport-based Wagamama locations.
Record Growth Fuels Future Expansion
Richard Gill, Commercial Director of Birmingham Airport, said the announcement comes during a period of unprecedented growth. He noted that the new openings will diversify airside dining options while improving the overall departures experience through better use of space.
The expansion follows a record-breaking 2025, during which 13.65 million passengers passed through the airport, the highest annual total in its history. This momentum is expected to continue, with Birmingham Airport set to publish its Masterplan later this year, outlining a long-term vision for growth and transformation through to 2041.
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