Birmingham Airport (BHX) has published a draft 2 billion GBP Master Plan setting out how it could increase annual passenger numbers to around 30 million over the next 15 years.
Published on 8 October 2026, the proposals include upgrades to terminal facilities, baggage handling, aircraft stands and surface access. The airport estimates that the investment could generate an additional 3.6 billion GBP in gross value added (GVA) for the West Midlands and create more than 50,000 jobs, including 3,800 airport-based roles.
The plan focuses on making greater use of the airport’s existing runway capacity while expanding passenger facilities and improving transport connections. The proposals aim to support regional connectivity and economic growth, while community engagement will form part of the development process.
The first phase of development could begin in 2027, with proposed works including improvements to baggage facilities, the reconfiguration and addition of aircraft stands, terminal upgrades and better surface access.
The airport has launched an eight-week public consultation to gather feedback from residents, businesses and other stakeholders. Twenty public events are scheduled to begin on 16 October 2026. Feedback will be reviewed to identify key concerns and suggestions, with a report expected in 2027 explaining how responses have informed the final Master Plan and future investment commitments.
Nick Barton, Chief Executive Officer of Birmingham Airport Limited, said:Birmingham Airport is the Midland's principal international airport, already facilitating and supporting trade, tourism, investment and employment in the region. 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.
The £2bn proposed investment is unprecedented at Birmingham Airport and will take our airport close to 30m passengers. 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. This Master Plan will enable us to deliver on that ambition and ensure we are ready for the future.
However, Barton also called for a stable taxation and regulatory environment to support long-term infrastructure investment. He cited rising operating costs, including employment, energy and business rates, as factors that could affect the delivery of the proposals.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander said:We’re backing our aviation sector to continue growing, right across the country.
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.
The draft Master Plan sets out Birmingham Airport’s proposed development over the next 15 years. The 2 billion GBP investment remains a proposal, with the final plans to be informed by public consultation and future funding decisions.
Further details are available on the Birmingham Airport Master Plan website.
