Birmingham Airport announces £2bn expansion

Birmingham Airport has announced a £2 billion enlargement programme that bosses say could more than treble passenger numbers and create thousands of jobs. "The draught plan, a spokesperson said, sets retired the usage of existing runway capableness alongside "significantly enhanced" rider facilities implicit the adjacent 15 years." Unveiling an eight‑week nationalist consultation, main enforcement Nick Barton said the strategy aims to guarantee the airdrome was "ready for the future" but needed a "fair and unchangeable taxation environment". Transport caput Heidi Alexander said the authorities was "backing our aviation assemblage to proceed growing, close crossed the country". In 2025 the airport reported a ground twelvemonth with more than 13 million passengers using its facilities, and bosses want to see this figure rise to as high as 30 million a year. Airport chiefs added that the proposals set out a "clear commitment" to continue serving the region and to generate more than 50,000 jobs, including 3,800 positions directly at the airport site. They also said they wanted to make sure the growth was "delivered responsibly and sustainably" for the local community living close to the site. The first phase of the development could begin in 2027, with major investment planned for baggage handling, terminal upgrades, additional aircraft stands and improvements to surface access. Hundreds of passengers were affected by problems with the airport's baggage system in August, leaving many without their luggage. Members of the public can submit feedback on the plans online, by post or by attending any of the 20 events that start in Hampton in Arden on 16 October. Read the full story at BBC News →