Birmingham Airport sets out £2bn expansion master plan

Birmingham Airport has published a draft master plan that sets out how annual passenger numbers could reach about 30 million over the next 15 years, at an estimated cost of £2 billion.

The proposals are dated 8 October 2026 and cover terminal upgrades, baggage handling, aircraft stands and surface access. The airport estimates the investment could add £3.6 billion in gross value added to the West Midlands economy and create more than 50,000 jobs. Of those, 3,800 would be based at the airport.

Greater use of the existing runway is central to the plan, alongside expanded passenger facilities and improved transport links, with the aim of supporting regional connectivity and economic growth. Community engagement will form part of the process.

The first phase could begin in 2027. Proposed works include baggage facility improvements, the reconfiguration and addition of aircraft stands, terminal upgrades and better surface access.

An eight-week public consultation is under way, with 20 public events scheduled from 16 October 2026. Responses will be reviewed, and a report is expected in 2027 setting out how the feedback shaped the final master plan and future investment commitments.