Passengers travelling through Birmingham Airport (BHX) are being advised to prepare for potential delays and longer waiting times for the next month. The airport has announced that a key transport link will be operating at a reduced capacity due to planned engineering work.
Essential maintenance reduces shuttle service
The disruption is due to essential planned maintenance on the air-rail link, the automated people mover that connects the airport terminal with Birmingham International railway station. For the duration of the works, which are scheduled to last until February 2026, the system will operate just one shuttle instead of the usual two.
This means the service will be running at approximately 50% of its normal capacity. During this period, a shuttle will be available roughly every six to eight minutes between the hours of 3.30am and 12.30am daily.
Impact on passenger journeys and airport advice
BHX has issued a clear warning to customers, stating that the reduced service may lead to extended waits at peak times. The Solihull-based transport hub is urging all passengers to allow extra time for their journeys to account for potential hold-ups when transferring between the terminal and the train station.
The official advice on the airport's website reads: "Please note there may be some delays to the air-rail link whilst planned maintenance is carried out."
Alternative travel option for passengers
For those looking to avoid any potential queues for the shuttle, the airport has highlighted an alternative. Safe walking routes are available between the terminal and Birmingham International station. This option may provide a more reliable journey time for passengers, particularly during busy periods.
The maintenance work is a necessary inconvenience to ensure the long-term reliability of the vital transport link. Passengers flying from or arriving at BHX in the coming weeks are strongly encouraged to factor this update into their travel plans to ensure a smooth start or end to their trip.
