As one of the UK’s largest airports outside of London, Birmingham Airport offers over 190 routes to 39 countries, and is a popular choice for passengers in the Midlands to start their various journeys. With 57 different airlines in operation, Birmingham Airport draws in millions of holidaymakers each year, which can make simple tasks such as finding a parking space seem daunting, however it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s all the information you need to ensure this flying experience from Birmingham Airport is the easiest yet.
Key Information about Birmingham Airport
Airlines and destinations
Over 80% of passengers passing through Birmingham Airport are flying for leisure, making destinations such as Dublin, Tenerife, Alicante, and Barcelona some of the most popular. However, there are also direct long haul flights available to destinations across the globe including Dubai, Doha, Delhi, and Cancun. Many destinations in further-distance locations such as those in North America are available via one stop, demonstrating the versatility of locations that can be accessed from Birmingham, for both leisure and business travellers alike.
Some of the popular airlines that fly from Birmingham Airport are WizzAir, Jet2, and TUI, who all offer sunny European getaways at affordable prices. For longer-haul flights, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, AirFrance, and Virgin Atlantic are some of the top providers operating from Birmingham.
Opening times, facilities, and accessibility
Birmingham Airport is open 24 hours a day, allowing flights to leave late at night and early in the morning. The airport advises that you arrive at least two hours before your flight time if you are travelling without checked luggage, although queues can be long for passing through security, so arrive early if possible, and check with your airline for further details.
Birmingham currently operates as a single terminal airport, having previously added a second, and now merging the two together to improve the passenger experience. The airport offers a wide range of facilities to make your time there as seamless as possible including a prayer room, water fountains, assisted travel, and special help for families travelling with children.
There are also a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants, to help you relax before takeoff, as well as hotels available, if you prefer to arrive at the airport the night before you fly - here are some of our top picks.
Where to eat and drink:
- Factory Bar and Kitchen offers a wide range of food, local ales, and cocktails, while also offering a children’s menu
- Burger King, Pret A Manger, and Costa all offer quick takeaway food and coffees if you don’t fancy a sit down meal
- Bottega Prosecco Bar offers a calm and luxurious atmosphere for passengers who’d prefer a glass of wine pre-flight
Where to shop:
- Grab some last minute clothes and accessories at Superdry, Sunglass Hut, JD, and Accessorize
- Get the latest tech items at Inmotion, or browse cosmetics at Boots
- For a wide range of discounted items, pop to World Duty Free- you can even reserve your items in advance and pick them up when you arrive
Where to stay:
- Ibis Hotel Birmingham Airport is just a two minute walk from the terminal, making it a convenient spot to stay
- Novotel Birmingham Airport is right next to the terminal, and offers a children’s play area and on site restaurant
- Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham Airport offers a luxury hotel experience to get you in the holiday mood
Birmingham Airport has a variety of measures ensuring passengers’ accessibility needs are met so everyone can have a smooth experience at the airport. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are available, as well as support for hidden disabilities, and assistance can be booked in advance. The airport also has level access at the main terminal entrance.
Birmingham Airport also offers 30 minutes free parking to Blue Badge holders in their Premium Set Down car park, to ensure passengers can safely arrive at the terminal.
Getting to Birmingham Airport
Drive and park affordably
Often popular with those travelling with lots of luggage, children, or who prefer their own space, driving to the airport is one of the most common modes of transport. The airport is accessible by joining the A45 and following signs to the airport from there, and the postcode is B26 3QJ for satnav users.
While driving may offer convenience and comfort, the threat of airport parking prices can deter many passengers, as well as the fear of fines. These airport car parks can be extremely busy and costly, causing passengers stress before their journey. However, with JustPark, you can pre-book your parking for Birmingham Airport, ensuring peace of mind knowing you avoid the stress of struggling to find a space. There are options for every budget, ranging from nearby driveways, to on-site parking, as well as accessible parking options, ensuring a relaxed airport arrival.
Coaches and trains to the airport
Birmingham Airport can be accessed by train from its own Birmingham International Station, which connects to the airport by the Air-Rail Link. A multitude of towns and cities have direct links to the station, including London, Milton Keynes, Manchester, Bournemouth, Coventry, and Shrewsbury. The train can offer a more cost-effective and efficient transport method, for those who are carrying less luggage. Tickets are cheapest if booked in advance, and to avoid the hassle of different train providers, Trainline conveniently shows you all available options. Birmingham International also has links to Birmingham New Street, the central station in Birmingham, providing transport links to even further afield.
Taking coaches can also be a cost-effective option, with National Express offering services from Oxford, Manchester, Milton Keynes, and Luton, with coaches arriving right outside the terminal. Megabus also offers services from London, Manchester, and Leeds at affordable prices, and between these coach providers, there are over 120 daily coaches from over 35 locations. Tickets are to be booked in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on your desired coach time.
Local bus routes
If you live locally, or have parked nearby and need to complete the final step in your journey to the airport, local bus services are super convenient. The services are operated by Diamond Bus and National Express West Midlands, and connect to Birmingham City Centre, Coventry, Solihull, Kingstanding, and Chelmsley Wood. At only £2 for an adult single, the bus makes for a quick and affordable journey to the airport.
Possibility to cycle
For passengers who are travelling light and want to be eco-friendly, cycling can be a good option, and the airport is working on improving its cycling routes. There are cycle storage spaces at Birmingham International Station, and a 2km route alongside the A45 with routes linking Solihull and Coventry.
Using taxi services and rideshare apps
While efficient and having the benefit of door-to-door convenience, taxi services can be extremely expensive, as well as having to pay drop-off fees for the driver. Birmingham Airport has an official taxi service, which can be booked in advance, and there are also app services such as Uber and Bolt. These should also be booked before travel, especially at peak hours, to avoid longer wait times and price increases.
You can learn more in the official Birmingham Airport transit overview video below:
FAQs
Is there cheap parking at Birmingham Airport?
- Yes! While the airport offers parking, it can be expensive and extremely busy, but with JustPark, you know what you’re paying upfront, and have a reserved space without the stress.
How early do I need to arrive at Birmingham Airport?
- Always check with your airline, as times may vary, but it is recommended to arrive at least two hours before flight time for short haul flights with no checked luggage.
Where is Birmingham Airport?
- The airport is located at Airport Way, Birmingham, B26 3QJ, which is around 8 miles east of the city centre, making it easy to access.
How much is Birmingham Airport drop-off charge?
- The airport allows up to 10 minutes free parking, after which you must pay the set rates, which go up to £45 for one hour. Blue Badge holders have up to 30 minutes free parking.
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