‘Direct US flights from Birmingham Airport would deliver significant benefits' - Mayor on plan to reinstate a direct route to New York

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, has backed the idea after Birmingham Airport (BHX) announced that a targeted, financial support package is on offer to airlines that look to attract direct connectivity between BHX and the Big Apple.

The offer aims to reinforce the airport’s commitment to the growth of long haul flights and its desire to reinstate the direct transatlantic route - especially with the Invictus Games expected to put Birmingham in the global spotlight in summer 2027.

Connectivity to the US remains completely underserved by direct scheduled services, according to data from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, with around 485,000 US bound passengers from the West Midlands alone having to fly from another UK airport every year.

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

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

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

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.”

Direct US connectivity is a strategic priority for the airport, reflecting strong demand and pressure from businesses, regional investors, universities and exporters. 

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, 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.”

Raj Kandola, acting deputy CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, has also backed the idea of direct flights returning.

He 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.”

The West Midlands region has a £77bn economy and is home to major companies and exporters including Jaguar Land Rover, JCB, Aston Martin and Safran.

While Birmingham, the UK’s second largest city, has the fastest growing, youngest and most diverse population outside of London. 

Birmingham Airport has enjoyed its most successful year to date, since April 2025, with nine months of consecutive, record-breaking growth. 

To keep up with demand, BHX is planning its biggest ever capital investment programme which will see £300m invested in every corner of the airport over a four-year period. Completed infrastructure improvements include next generation security halls, terminal and airfield upgrades, baggage and immigration efficiencies and a greater food and retail offering.