The leisurely traveller

When do I need to be at the airport?

Your check-in time can be usually found on your boarding card, however please check with your airline for the precise time for your flight.

Where should I park?

Visit our parking page to see the full range of parking options we offer.

If you want to get check-in as soon as you can, Valet Parking is the speediest option, while Car Parks 1, 2 & 3 are a 1 to 2-minute walk from the terminal building. Car Park 5 is a 10-minute walk to the terminal, or you can get the free shuttle bus every 10 minutes.

If you have more time, why not do a bit of plane spotting? Within Car Park 5, signposts will direct you to the aircraft viewing area, complete with picnic benches and a great view of the runway. It’s a great way to start your holiday!

What should I eat?

What should I eat?

Getting to the airport in plenty of time means you can have a lovely meal before you board your flight. Browse our range of restaurants and cafés to find something to suit your taste and budget.

Helpful Tips

These top tips will ensure you enjoy your time at the airport:

• Check-in online - If you check-in online before you arrive at the airport and have your boarding pass ready, all you’ll need to do is drop off any checked bags at the relevant airline ‘bag-drop’ area. Then you’re ready to go through to the departure lounge, leaving you more time to explore the airport.

• Skip queues - We try to make Airport Security as hassle-free as possible, but if you want to get through even faster – you can with the Express Lane.

• Book into an Airport Lounge - Airport lounges are no longer reserved for the hot shots in First Class. For a small fee, our three executive lounges are a quiet sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of a busy airport. Comfortable seating, a fully- tended bar and bistro, complimentary national newspapers, glossy magazines and unlimited WiFi – our airport lounges are a place to relax and enjoy.

• Treat yourself at World Duty Free - Our World Duty Free store has the latest products at great value prices – from exclusive cosmetics and popular fragrances to liquor and confectionary. You can even shop online before you travel and reserve duty free items to collect in store before departure.

• Do some last-minute holiday shopping - You know those bits you kept saying you’d go and grab at lunch time but never got around to? Our shops have your back.

• Order currency exchange - Head to one of our Travelex stores through out the airport points to sort your foreign currency. That way you’ll have your cash ready to spend as soon as you land.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access the Airport by bus or coach?

Information on how to access the Airport by bus or coach can be found here.

How do I travel between the Airport and Birmingham International station?

Birmingham Airport is directly connected to Birmingham International station by a free 'Air-Rail Link' system. The entrance can be found on the first floor of the terminal, between Frankie & Benny’s and Burger King, before you enter security.

Which check-in desk do I go to for my flight?

Sign posts outside the terminal building direct you to check in via doors A, B or C depending on your airline. Check-in desk numbers are displayed on the information screens. There are also several automated check-in kiosks available. More information about your airlines check-in zone can be found on our airline directory.

Can I print off my boarding pass at the airline desk/check- in?

Most airlines have this facility, but not all.

We recommend you contacting your airline directly in advance of your travel to confirm. Airline contact numbers can be found here.