Work begins on new international pier at the airport

Work has begun on a new international pier at Birmingham Airport, designed to handle the next generation of large aircraft.

Construction of the three-storey pier started in June, as part of a long-term programme to expand the airport.

What the pier will provide

The pier will be around 240 metres long and will provide air bridges for wide-bodied aircraft, allowing passengers to walk straight from the terminal on to the plane. It is being designed to handle aircraft including the Airbus A380, the world's largest passenger jet, and the new generation of more fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft.

Departing passengers will use the top level, with arriving passengers on the middle level and offices for airlines and handling agents on the ground floor.

Growing ambitions

The airport has ambitious plans to grow, and wants to attract more long-haul flights to destinations such as the Middle East, Asia and North America. Earlier this year, it submitted plans to Solihull Council to extend its main runway, which is currently too short for the largest aircraft to take off fully loaded for the longest routes.

In January, the airport closed its shorter second runway, which had been used less and less because of its short length, the noise it caused and its awkward position crossing the main runway. The closure has freed up space for more aircraft parking.

From Elmdon to today

The airport opened as Elmdon Airport on 8 July 1939, with an art deco terminal that also housed the control tower. It was used by the RAF and the Royal Navy during the Second World War, when Lancaster and Stirling bombers built near Longbridge were taken there to be tested.

A new terminal opened in 1984, alongside the world's first commercial maglev link, which carried passengers to Birmingham International railway station. It was replaced by a cable-hauled people mover in 2003.

A key part of the economy

The airport is one of the busiest in the country outside London, and supports thousands of jobs directly and in related businesses. Business leaders say good international connections are vital to attract investment to the region.

Concerns

Some residents living under the flight path are worried about more noise as the airport grows, and environmental campaigners have raised concerns about the impact of more flights on climate change. The airport says it is working to reduce its impact on local communities.

The new pier is due to be completed next year, in time for the airport's 70th anniversary.

Around nine million passengers used Birmingham Airport last year, and the airport hopes to increase that number significantly in the years ahead.