Birmingham Airport (BHX) has released a draft master plan proposing more than £2 billion in investment. The plan could increase the airport’s annual passenger throughput to approximately 30 million by 2041.
Birmingham Airport Plans Major Facility Upgrades
The airport’s draft master plan proposes to make better use of its existing runway capacity while expanding passenger facilities and improving surface transport connections.
The first phase of development could start in 2027, including upgrades to baggage facilities, the reconfiguration and addition of aircraft stands, improvements to terminal facilities and better surface access.
This proposal builds on the £300 million investment plan previously announced by Birmingham Airport, covering terminal, baggage and airfield upgrades through 2029.
Birmingham Airport chief executive Nick Barton said:
“The £2bn proposed investment is unprecedented at Birmingham Airport and will take our airport close to 30m passengers.”
Barton also said that the airport would pursue sustainable growth while addressing environmental challenges. The master plan considers carbon emissions, aircraft noise, air quality, biodiversity and sustainable transport.
Expansion Could Create More Than 50,000 Jobs in the West Midlands
Birmingham Airport estimates that the plan could generate an additional £3.6 billion in gross value added for the West Midlands. It could also create more than 50,000 jobs across the region, including approximately 3,800 positions at the airport.
However, the airport said that the investment would depend on a fair and stable tax and regulatory environment. The announcement comes as its operating costs have increased and its business rates bill has doubled.
An eight-week public consultation will begin on Oct. 16, with 20 events being held across the West Midlands. Residents, businesses and other stakeholders can submit feedback online, by email or by post before Dec. 4.
The airport will review the feedback received before finalising the master plan in early 2027. A consultation report will explain how the feedback was considered and how it influenced the final plan and future funding commitments.
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