Birmingham Airport has unveiled a £2 billion draft master plan aimed at increasing annual passenger numbers to about 30 million and generating an additional £3.6 billion in gross value added (GVA) for the West Midlands region.
The proposals could create more than 50,000 jobs, including 3,800 airport-based positions, over the next 15 years, the airport said.
The plan outlines how the airport intends to maximise the use of its existing runway capacity while expanding passenger facilities and improving surface transport links. It also sets out measures to support communities living near the airport, with the operator pledging to prioritise sustainability and engagement as growth progresses.
The announcement comes with a call for the government to provide a stable tax environment to encourage long-term investment. Birmingham Airport said uncertainty over property valuations affecting English airports had already contributed to its business rates bill doubling.
The first phase of development could begin next year, with planned investment in baggage handling facilities, aircraft stands, terminal infrastructure and surface access.
The airport will launch an eight-week public consultation on the draft master plan, allowing residents and other stakeholders to submit feedback online, by post or at 20 public events scheduled to begin on October 16.
The airport said the consultation would help shape its development plans and ensure future growth delivers benefits for the region while addressing the concerns of neighbouring communities.
