Birmingham Airport commits funds to bring direct US flights back to region

Direct flights between Birmingham and New York could return after Birmingham Airport (BHX) today announced it has committed funds to attract US connectivity back to the region.

The airport says a targeted, financial support package has been made to airlines – stating it “sends a clear signal BHX means business when it comes to reinstating the critical, direct transatlantic route”.

The multi-year financial support offer will see BHX invest several million dollars to secure direct, daily scheduled services between New York and Birmingham from summer 2027.

This would coincide with the Invictus Games landing in Birmingham.

The offer will also include marketing support and operational incentives as the new route establishes itself.

According to latest figures, approximately 485,000 US-bound passengers from the West Midlands alone are having to fly from other UK airports every year.

In 2024 a total of 1.88m passengers are reported to have travelled to the US from the wider Birmingham catchment area - equivalent to more than 5,100 daily passengers.

Nick Barton, CEO at Birmingham Airport, said: “We have been in airline discussions where we are reassured it is not if, but when direct US connectivity returns to BHX.

“Now is the time to turn those conversations into a critical connection as the demand and business case is proven.

“This unique financial offer demonstrates our determination to secure the return of this direct US route.

“Re-establishing a direct air service to New York would be transformational for the West Midlands.”

Birmingham Airport’s announcement has been backed by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, whose acting deputy CEO Raj Kandola said: “The return of direct US air travel from Birmingham would be viewed as a huge positive by businesses in the region.

“Since a direct route was last in place, we’ve seen US interest in the West Midlands grow significantly. American capital is backing the transformation of Birmingham City Football Club and its wider Sports Quarter, while creative and media investment around Digbeth has raised the region’s global profile and attracted attention from major production companies.

“Improved access to the US helps to strengthen our global competitiveness while drawing investment, talent and visitors to our region.”

West Midlands mayor, Richard Parker said: “Direct US flights from Birmingham Airport would deliver significant benefits for trade, tourism and inward investment which is what this region is all about.

“The airport’s financial offer sends a strong signal that the region wants to be open for global business and every lever needs to be pulled to re-establish this critical connection.

“I am fully supportive in making sure this happens for BHX and the people and businesses in the region.”