Birmingham BHX 2023: Doha, Jeddah, Singapore and more

Exterior view of Birmingham Airport Terminal building.
Photo Credit: Birmingham Airport

Birmingham Airport (BHX) in the British midlands has looked back on the highlights of the past year.

In the 2023 Coronation year when England very nearly won the FIFA Women’s Football World Cup, the return of Qatar Airways was among the highlights for Birmingham Airport (BHX). 

Qatar Airways Makes a Triumphant Return


In the spirited atmosphere of the 2023 Coronation year, Birmingham Airport celebrated the return of Qatar Airways after a temporary hiatus induced by the challenges of the Covid era.

The airline resumed its daily Doha services in the first week of July, contributing to the vibrant aviation scene at BHX.

Gulf Giants Reignite Connectivity


The same week witnessed Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s flagship carrier, initiating operations at BHX, offering three weekly flights to Jeddah.

SAUDIA Dreamliner and staff celebrate the arrival at Birmingham airport.
Photo Credit: Birmingham Airport

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Adding to the excitement, Emirates enhanced its twice-daily Dubai service by reintroducing its iconic 600-seater A380.

This confluence of events led BHX to dub the month ‘Giant July,’ acknowledging the robust Middle Eastern connectivity fostered by the long-term commitment of these three Gulf-based carriers.

An Emirates A380 lands at Birmingham Airport.
Photo Credit: Birmingham Airport

Airlines Rally for Expansion


As autumn unfolded, significant developments unfolded at Birmingham Airport. easyJet announced an accelerated timeline for the opening of its three-aircraft base, slated for March 2024, a move set to generate 100 local jobs.

Ryanair, not to be outdone, confirmed an increase in its BHX-based aircraft from six to seven in the coming summer.

An easyJet Airbus A320 taxis at Birmingham Airport.
Tony Hisgett from Birmingham, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Pegasus, the Turkish carrier, initiated flights to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçe, and Jet2 expanded its presence by basing a 14th aircraft at BHX, with promises of a 15th in the upcoming summer.

The competitive landscape saw easyJet Holidays entering the package holiday market, providing customers with more options while keeping prices affordable.

TUI Expands Horizons


This month, TUI made headlines by launching the first of its weekly winter flights directly to Singapore.

These flights catered to customers embarking on the Marella Discovery cruise ship, broadening BHX’s reach and enhancing travel possibilities.

Impressive Customer Metrics


Birmingham Airport’s commitment to customer service is evident in its impressive metrics. In the 12 months from January 2023, BHX served 11.5 million customers.

Looking ahead, the airport anticipates serving around 12 million customers by the end of the financial year in March 2024, approaching pre-pandemic volumes.

The ambitious goal for 2024/25 is to welcome more than 13 million travelers.

CEO’s Vision for the Future


Nick Barton, the chief executive of BHX, envisions a future defined by growth and customer satisfaction.

He emphasizes the dual focus on improved long-haul connectivity and low-cost growth, integral components of the airport’s long-term plan.

Exciting developments on the horizon include the unveiling of a new £50 million security hall in 2024, the launch of a customer-centric website, and a commitment to sustainability through a 12,000-panel solar array, set to generate 20% of the airport’s electricity needs.

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By Len Varley - Assistant Editor 4 Min Read
4 Min Read
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