UNITED KINGDOM- Birmingham Airport (BHX) is set for a brighter future as three major Middle Eastern airlines forge new partnerships, enhancing the airport’s connectivity to the region.
The chief executive of BHX referred to these developments as “a glimpse into our future,” marking a significant milestone for the airport.
New Flights to and from Birmingham Airport
In what Birmingham Airport has dubbed ‘Giant July,’ three renowned airlines have expanded BHX’s direct Middle Eastern connectivity to its highest level. Further, the airport released a short video showcasing each airline’s achievement to commemorate these milestones.
Emirates’ Return with Iconic A380
On Saturday, July 1, Emirates (EK) reintroduced its iconic 615-seater A380 ‘superjumbo’ to Birmingham Airport. Subsequently bolstering the capacity of its popular twice-daily Dubai service.
Further, this move is expected to meet the growing demand for travel between Birmingham and Dubai.
Saudia’s New Route to Jeddah
On Sunday, July 2, Saudia (SV), the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, commenced thrice-weekly flights to and from Jeddah. It is the vibrant second city and commercial hub of Saudi Arabia.
Subsequently, the new route will facilitate increased business and leisure travel between the two destinations.
Qatar Airways’ Return with Daily Services
On Thursday, July 6, Qatar Airways (QR) returned to Birmingham Airport after a three-year absence.
Further, the airline now operates daily services to Doha. Subsequently, providing passengers with convenient access to the airline’s extensive global network.
Enhancing West Midlands’ Global Gateway
Nick Barton, the chief executive of Birmingham Airport, expressed his excitement for the future. He stated, “World-class airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Saudia serving the global gateway of the West Midlands as we eagerly await the arrival of the new HS2 railway.”
The new railway is set to reduce travel times, positioning BHX as the journey time equivalent of London’s zone 5.
The West Midlands region, home to six million people, boasts an economy the size of Hungary’s. Subsequently, it demonstrates the strongest foreign direct investment and job creation performance outside London and the Southeast.
The enhanced Middle Eastern connectivity at BHX will benefit customers travelling for business, leisure, family, and religious purposes.
Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, hailed the return of Qatar Airways, along with Emirates and Saudia’s expanded services, as a substantial economic boost for the region.
He emphasized the airlines’ investments as a testament to the confidence placed in the future of the West Midlands.
Over the past five years (2017 to 2022), the West Midlands region has attracted 771 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects. Further solidifying its position as a leading FDI performer outside London and the Southeast.
During the same period, the region created over 28,000 new jobs from FDI, second only to London. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, job creation levels have rebounded. Subsequently, this growth trajectory is projected to continue beyond 2023.
Birmingham Airport Contribution to the Economy
Birmingham Airport plays a pivotal role in the economy of the West Midlands. In 2022, its economic contribution, measured by gross value added (GVA), stood at £1.5 billion, supporting 30,900 jobs directly and indirectly.
BHX forecasts annual customer numbers to reach 18 million by 2033, with a projected GVA of £2.1 billion and supporting 34,400 jobs.
Among the diverse range of customers benefiting from the increased connectivity are students. A recent study conducted by Universities UK International, the Higher Education Policy Institute, Kaplan International, and London Economics revealed that international students contribute £3 billion to the West Midlands out of the UK’s £42 billion impact.
This highlights the significance of Middle Eastern airlines’ services in facilitating educational opportunities and international exchange.
Key Takeaways
With the recent expansions in direct Middle Eastern connectivity, Birmingham Airport is poised to become an even more influential transportation hub in the West Midlands.
The partnerships with Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Saudia not only signify economic growth and increased job opportunities but also demonstrate the confidence of these global airlines in the region’s potential.
As BHX continues to evolve, its customer numbers are set to soar. Further supporting the flourishing economy of the West Midlands for years to come.
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