Birmingham Airport has published a £2 billion expansion masterplan that it says could create more than 50,000 new jobs and more than double annual passenger numbers. The proposals, which are now subject to an eight-week public consultation, would increase capacity from 13 million passengers last year to approximately 30 million per year by 2041.
What the expansion includes
The airport said the plans focus on "using existing runway capacity" and "enhancing passenger facilities" over the next 15 years. No new runway is proposed. Instead, the scheme would add more routes to destinations worldwide, with additional traffic expected as a result.
According to the airport, the first phase of development could begin next year. That opening stage would involve improvements to baggage handling facilities and the creation of additional aircraft parking bays.
Government backing and green investment
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander welcomed the proposal, calling it a "massive boost to the West Midlands" that would unlock investment and create thousands of local jobs. She said the Government is "backing our aviation sector to continue growing, right across the country."
Ms Alexander added: "Birmingham Airport's masterplan will be a massive boost to the West Midlands, unlocking investment and creating 50,000 well-paid local jobs to get people into employment. From the Midlands to the North and beyond, we're backing airport expansion that drives prosperity in every corner of Britain, whilst delivering cleaner flights with over £219 million invested in green fuels."
Job creation details
Of the total new roles, 3,800 positions would be based on site at the airport itself, according to the plans. The remaining jobs would come from the wider economic knock-on impact, bringing the total to as many as 50,000.
Nick Barton, chief executive at Birmingham Airport Limited, commented: "As Birmingham is the UK's second city, our future plans will help secure ongoing growth in the region, benefiting more people and businesses in the West Midlands with new jobs, better transport links and enhanced connectivity."
He continued: "This level of ambition sends a strong signal of support and confidence in our airport and wider region. We have a laser light focus on delivering sustainable growth that supports regional prosperity, while responding responsibly to the environmental challenges."
Consultation and next steps
The first public consultation session is scheduled for October 16 in Hampton in Arden. Residents can also submit feedback online, via email, or through postal submissions.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker supported the proposals, stating: "This consultation gives local people and business owners a chance to have their say and help shape the airport's expansion so that it brings lasting benefits for our communities."
