Passengers travelling through Birmingham Airport (BHX) are being advised to plan for significant disruptions after officials issued a warning about extended waiting times. The cause is essential maintenance work on the crucial Air-Rail Link monorail, a situation now expected to persist for a considerable period.
Essential Maintenance Cuts Service
The airport has confirmed that the automated people mover connecting Birmingham International railway station with the terminal is operating a reduced service. One of the two shuttle vehicles has been taken out of service to allow for critical maintenance work. This leaves just a single shuttle to ferry passengers back and forth.
As a result, the frequency of the service has dropped markedly. Travellers can now expect a shuttle to arrive approximately every six to eight minutes, rather than the more frequent service enjoyed previously. This reduced schedule runs daily from 3.30am until 12.30am.
Extended Waits and Passenger Advice
The primary impact for the public is on journey times. Airport management has explicitly warned that passengers may face "some delays" and "extended waits," particularly during peak travel periods. The situation is not a short-term glitch; the disruption is projected to continue until February 2026.
In response, BHX is urging all customers, especially those arriving by train at Birmingham International, to build significant extra time into their travel plans. The advice is to factor in the longer wait for the monorail to ensure flight check-in and security deadlines are met without stress.
Alternative Travel Option Available
For those wishing to avoid the potential queue for the monorail, a viable alternative exists. Passengers can choose to walk from the railway station to the airport terminal. The airport assures that safe, signposted pedestrian routes are available for this purpose.
While the walk offers a guaranteed journey time unaffected by the maintenance, it is a less convenient option for those with heavy luggage or reduced mobility. The airport's warning underscores the importance of preparation for anyone using this major transport hub in the coming years.
