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Birmingham-UK Airport BHX Airport Traveler Guide

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BHX Airport Insights & Guide

Key BHX Airport Topics:

Getting to Know BHX Airport

Discover Birmingham Airport, the UK's gateway featuring the iconic SkySide, a unique leisure area for travelers. This concise guide equips you with essential information for a seamless journey through BHX, from flight updates to dining options.

Explore more about BHX and other airports in our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.com.

iFly Tip: Avoid common travel mistakes with our expert airport tips.

BHX has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the main terminal and has 29 gates, while Terminal 2 has 10 gates. The major airlines that use Terminal 1 include Aer Lingus, Air France, Emirates, KLM, Lufthansa, and Ryanair. Terminal 2 is used by Flybe and some Ryanair flights.

When you arrive at the airport, follow the signs to the appropriate terminal for your airline. If you are unsure which terminal to go to, check your airline's website or ask an airport staff member for assistance. Once you are inside the terminal, look for the departure boards to find your gate number and flight information.

BHX Airport offers a variety of food and services in both terminals, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and currency exchange. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The terminals are located within walking distance of each other, so passengers can easily walk between them. The walking time between the terminals is approximately 5-10 minutes depending on your walking speed.

If you prefer not to walk, there is a free shuttle bus service that operates between the terminals. The shuttle bus runs every 10-15 minutes and takes approximately 5 minutes to travel between the terminals. The shuttle bus stop is located outside each terminal building.

Tips from BHX Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Birmingham Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from BHX-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"When you're at BHX, Terminal 1 is your hub for most international flights. It can get busy, so I recommend arriving early to navigate through security smoothly. Terminal 2 is smaller and often less crowded, making it a breeze for domestic flights." — John D., Solihull, UK, December 2023

"If you're connecting between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, it's a short walk, but if you've got heavy luggage, take the shuttle. It runs frequently and saves you the hassle." — Priya S., Coventry, UK, January 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The train is the fastest way to get to Birmingham city center from the airport. It’s quick and avoids traffic, especially during rush hour. Just follow the signs to the Birmingham International train station." — Emily H., Sutton Coldfield, UK, February 2024

"For late arrivals, I always book a taxi in advance. Ride shares are available, but they can be scarce late at night." — Ahmed K., Dudley, UK, March 2024

Parking

"For short trips, the on-site parking is convenient, but for longer stays, I opt for off-site parking. It’s cheaper and the shuttle service is reliable." — Lisa R., Wolverhampton, UK, April 2024

"If you're just picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It's free and saves you from circling around the airport." — James T., Walsall, UK, May 2024

Inside the Airport

"Terminal 1 has a great selection of food options. I always grab a coffee at Pret A Manger before my flight. If you have time, check out the duty-free for some good deals." — Ravi P., West Bromwich, UK, June 2024

"For a quick bite, I recommend Frankie & Benny's Deli. It's perfect for a snack before boarding." — Sophie L., Tamworth, UK, July 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Download your airline’s app to stay updated on gate changes or delays. It’s a lifesaver when things get hectic." — Michael B., Nuneaton, UK, August 2024

"Avoid peak times if you can. Early mornings and late evenings are usually less crowded, making the whole process more pleasant." — Hannah E., Redditch, UK, September 2024

"Check the flight status boards frequently. They’re updated in real-time and help you stay informed about any last-minute changes." — Oliver G., Kidderminster, UK, October 2024

iFly Tip: Get insights into what happens during your flight with our pilot's explanation guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At Birmingham Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas outside of the terminal buildings. Curbside parking is strictly prohibited, and vehicles left unattended may be towed. It is important to follow the signs and instructions provided to avoid any inconvenience.

If you are picking up passengers, you can use the cell-phone waiting area located near the airport. This area is free of charge and allows you to wait for your passengers until they are ready to be picked up. Once your passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up, they can call you and you can proceed to the designated pick-up area.

It is important to note that the cell-phone waiting area is only for temporary parking, and vehicles should not be left unattended. Additionally, if you are dropping off passengers, it is recommended to arrive at the airport early to allow sufficient time for the drop-off process and to avoid any potential delays.

Overall, BHX has specific guidelines in place to ensure the safety and convenience of all passengers and visitors. By following these guidelines, you can have a smooth and stress-free experience when picking up or dropping off passengers at the airport.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're flying out of BHX Airport, you'll find a variety of parking options to suit your needs. On-site parking is available in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with multiple lots and garages to choose from. If you're picking up a passenger, there are also cell phone waiting areas conveniently located near each terminal.

For those who prefer an economical off-airport parking option, there are several options available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal without breaking the bank.

Handicapped parking is available in all on-site parking lots, with designated spaces located near each terminal. If you require additional assistance, the airport offers a variety of services to help make your travel experience as smooth as possible.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking options, by visiting our parking page.

Transportation Options

When arriving at Birmingham-UK Airport, there are several transportation options available to get you to your final destination.

  • Car Rental: If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental facilities located within the airport terminal, including major providers such as Avis, Budget, and Enterprise.
  • Taxis: For those who prefer to take a taxi, there are designated drop-off areas located outside of the terminal building. Fares are based on time and distance traveled, and can vary depending on your final destination.
  • Ride Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at Birmingham Airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminal building, and there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
  • Airport Shuttles: If you prefer a more cost-effective option, airport shuttles are available to transport passengers to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminal building, and fares are based on the distance traveled.
  • Public Transportation: Public transportation options such as buses and trains are available to transport passengers to various locations throughout the city. Bus stops and train stations are located within walking distance of the airport terminal.

iFly Tip: Compare TSA PreCheck with other trusted traveler programs in our guide.

Airport Hotels

Looking for the perfect place to rest before or after your flight? Our comprehensive guide provides a list of the best hotel options near the airport. From budget-friendly options to luxurious stays, we have a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. All of these hotels offer convenient access to the airport, reducing travel time and providing added convenience for your journey. Explore options like the contemporary ibis Birmingham International Airport – NEC, the luxurious 4-star Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham Airport UK, and many more. Ready to book now? View all Birmingham Airport Hotels here.

Dining & Shopping at Birmingham-UK Airport

If you're traveling through Birmingham Airport, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of dining and shopping options available to you. From quick bites to sit-down meals, there's something for everyone. Some of the most popular restaurants include Frankie & Benny's Deli, Pret A Manger, and All Bar One, while top shops include Dixons, WHSmith, and World Duty Free. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, plan your visit using this guide.

Passenger Services

BHX offers a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

For those needing to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the lost and found office is located in Terminal 1.

Traveling with children? There are dedicated play areas in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to keep your little ones entertained.

Special-needs services are available, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms. Please contact your airline in advance to arrange for any necessary accommodations.

For your banking needs, ATMs are located throughout the airport in both terminals.

In case of a medical emergency, there is a medical center located in Terminal 1. If you require medical assistance, please inform airport staff or your airline immediately.

Flight Status Info

For air travelers, keeping track of flight status can be a crucial part of the journey. Fortunately, there are several ways to get real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information at BHX Airport.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These screens are located throughout the airport and provide up-to-date information on all departing flights, including gate assignments and any delays or cancellations.

Passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or email updates about their flight status. These apps also provide other helpful features, such as online check-in, seat selection, and baggage tracking.

In addition to airline apps, there are also third-party apps that can help travelers stay informed about flight status. Some popular options include FlightAware, FlightStats, and TripIt.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Birmingham-UK Airport (BHX) is located in the West Midlands region of England.
  • Terminals: The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
  • Passenger Traffic: BHX handles an average of 13 million passengers per year.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 300 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from BHX are Dublin, Amsterdam, Dubai, Belfast, and Alicante.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines operating from BHX include Ryanair, EasyJet, and TUI Airways. For a complete list of airlines, visit the BHX Airlines Served page.
  • Hub Status: Birmingham Airport is a hub for several airlines, including Flybe, Ryanair, and TUI Airways.

Airport History

BHX, located in the West Midlands of England, has a rich history dating back to the early 1930s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1939 - Birmingham Airport officially opens as Elmdon Airport, with a single grass runway and a small terminal building.
  • 1946 - The airport is renamed Birmingham International Airport and sees a significant expansion with the addition of a second runway.
  • 1960s - The airport experiences a boom in passenger traffic and undergoes major renovations, including the construction of a new terminal building and control tower.
  • 1984 - Birmingham International Airport becomes the first airport in the UK to introduce automated check-in machines.
  • 1991 - The airport is privatized and sold to the Birmingham International Airport plc.
  • 2003 - A new runway extension is completed, allowing the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and increase its capacity.
  • 2010 - Birmingham International Airport is renamed BHX Airport to reflect its status as a major international hub.
  • 2019 - The airport undergoes a major renovation, including the addition of new shops, restaurants, and lounges.

Today, the airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK, serving millions of passengers each year and offering flights to destinations all over the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Birmingham-UK Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Birmingham-UK Airport Q&A

Ryanair flights operate from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Check your ticket or the airline's website to confirm your terminal.
The quickest way to get to Birmingham city center is by train, which avoids peak hour traffic.
Yes, there is a cell phone waiting area near the airport where you can wait for free until your passenger is ready for pickup.
Terminal 1 offers a variety of dining options, including Pret A Manger and a food court with multiple choices.
The terminals are within walking distance, taking about 5-10 minutes. A free shuttle bus is also available every 10-15 minutes.
Pre-booking a taxi or using ride-sharing apps is recommended for late-night arrivals, as public transport can be infrequent.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected.
Off-site parking options are more economical for long trips, and they offer shuttle services to the terminals.
BHX provides special-needs services, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms. Contact your airline in advance for arrangements.
Use the in-airport flight displays or airline mobile apps for real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.