Laurence Dollimore
BIRMINGHAM Airport was today forced to suspend all flights and launch a full evacuation following reports of a suspicious vehicle.
Passengers were left stuck on planes and told not to approach the airport while bomb experts were called to the scene.
In a post on social media, the airport said: “West Midlands police are currently on-site dealing with an incident. Airport operations are currently suspended.
“Passengers are advised to NOT come to the airport at this time.”
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: “Birmingham Airport is currently being evacuated following a report of a suspicious vehicle.
“This is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.”
However the airport has since reopened although there are still expected to be disruptions.
he airport has now confirmed that passengers are being allowed back into the terminal, but disruptions will be ongoing.
A spokesperson for Birmingham Airport said: “Following a Police investigation, operations are now returning to normal. If travelling today, customers are advised to check their latest flight information and arrive at the airport in line with their check-in opening times.
“Whilst we apologise for any inconvenience and disruption, the safety and security of everyone at the airport was our number one priority as we worked through this incident with Police partners.”
There are multiple flights scheduled from Birmingham to Spain today, including to Malaga, Palma, Barcelona, Tenerife and Fuerteventura.
Travellers are advised to stay informed of updates from West Midlands Police and Birmingham Airport.
Passengers took to X to complain that they were stuck on the tarmac.
One wrote: “I am stuck on a plane, claustrophobic, pleading to get off. How long is this situation going to take?”
Another said: “My mum and dad are stuck on a plane at Birmingham airport. They have no idea what’s going on they just got back from Spain.”
