Birmingham Airport is gearing up to reinstate direct flights to New York, targeting summer 2027 for daily scheduled services as part of a multi-million dollar investment to attract airlines.
Direct routes from Birmingham to New York ceased in 2017 when United Airlines withdrew its Newark service citing low demand, followed by American Airlines pulling out of its JFK route earlier that year. Since then, West Midlands travelers have had to connect through other UK airports to reach the US.
Airport officials highlight that approximately 485,000 passengers from the West Midlands currently fly to the US from alternative airports annually. In 2024 alone, around 1.88 million passengers from the broader Birmingham region traveled to the US, averaging over 5,100 daily travelers.
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Nick Barton, CEO of Birmingham Airport, emphasized: “Discussions with airlines confirm it’s not a question of if, but when direct US flights will return to BHX. Our new financial incentives underscore our commitment to securing this vital connection and demonstrate the strong demand and business case. Reintroducing a direct New York service would be transformational for the West Midlands.”
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker expressed strong support, stating: “Direct US flights from Birmingham would significantly boost trade, tourism, and inward investment—key priorities for our region. The airport’s financial offer signals our readiness to re-establish this crucial link and open the region to global business.”
With robust backing and a strategic financial package, Birmingham Airport is determined to bring back its long-awaited direct air link to New York, aiming to strengthen regional growth and international connectivity.