Birmingham Airport (BHX) is preparing for its busiest February half-term on record after reporting its strongest January to date. The airport handled 788,833 passengers last month, marking its busiest January ever and continuing the momentum from 2025, when more than 13.6 million travellers passed through the regional hub.
Popular Routes See Strong Growth
Airport officials expect more than 140,000 passengers during the half-term getaway, an 11% increase compared with the same period last year. Popular international routes include Dublin, Dubai, Amsterdam, and Tenerife, while Belfast has emerged as the top domestic choice, recording a 31% year-on-year rise in passenger numbers.
Data released by the airport shows Dublin leading the half-term table with more than 27,000 passengers, followed by Dubai and Amsterdam. Leisure favourites such as Alicante, Malaga, and Geneva also feature among the busiest routes.
Belfast’s surge highlights continued demand for short domestic breaks, while Paris and Edinburgh remain steady performers.
Al Titterington, terminal operations director at Birmingham Airport, said the strong start to the year reflects sustained passenger confidence.
“We’re pleased to have kickstarted 2026 with continued growth in our passenger numbers at Birmingham Airport. We’re anticipating our busiest February half-term on record and are reminding passengers to plan ahead,” he said.
Key Travel Advice for Passengers
Ahead of the holiday rush, BHX has issued updated guidance to ensure smooth journeys.
Passengers can now carry liquids, pastes, and gels in containers of up to two litres in hand luggage, without the need for clear plastic bags. However, travellers are advised to check restrictions at destination airports, as rules may vary.
Electrical items should remain in hand luggage during screening. Vapes and devices containing lithium-ion batteries are prohibited in hold luggage and should be packed in cabin bags, subject to airline approval.
Jet2, easyJet, and TUI passengers may use twilight bag drop services for early morning departures. Check-in zones are divided across the terminal, with Jet2 in Zone A, Emirates in Zone D and other airlines operating from Zones B and C.
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