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    Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport

    Alabama’s busiest airport, serving as the primary air gateway for Birmingham and central Alabama.

    IATA Code:BHM
    Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport logo
    US Airport Illustration
    Watch Tower

    Overview of the Airport

    Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) is five miles northeast of downtown Birmingham, serving the Birmingham and Tuscaloosa metropolitan areas. It is the largest airport in Alabama by passenger volume and offers scheduled airline service to 21 destinations in 18 cities.

    33.56389, -86.75222

    3.2M
    Passenger Traffic
    55.6K
    Cargo Throughput

    Growth Trend

    Passenger traffic increased by 6% year-over-year in 2024.

    Passenger Growth ChartPassenger Growth ChartPassenger Growth ChartPassenger Growth Chart

    Employment

    5,000

    Workers include airline staff, ground services, concessions, security, and airport operations personnel.

    Airport Asset

    Global Ranking

    Largest and busiest airport in Alabama by passenger traffic.
    52.1K
    Aircraft Movements

    Market Share of Major Airlines

    Capacity Expansion

    Recent terminal and airfield upgrades support increased passenger and cargo capacity.

    Capacity Expansion

    Technological Advancements

    Deployment of advanced security screening and digital wayfinding enhances efficiency and passenger experience.

    Technological Advancements

    Sustainability Initiatives

    Implementation of energy-efficient lighting and recycling programs supports environmental stewardship.

    Sustainability Initiatives

    General Stats

    Comprehensive passenger capacity profiles and geographical insights.

    View General Stats

    Port Facts

    Associated ocean freight and maritime vessel tracking statistics.

    View Port Facts

    General Studies

    Environmental, noise, and community impact reports.

    View General Studies

    Latest News & Updates

    Recent developments and updates for Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.

    Container being moved

    Ship cargo through Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)

    Get a freight quote for shipments via Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. Expert cargo handling, warehousing, and transportation solutions.

    Operations Logistics & Timelines

    Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.

    For Clients

    Passenger process times from arrival to gate.

    • Arrival & Baggage Claim10-20 mins
    • Check-in/Bag Drop5-15 mins
    • Security Screening10-20 mins
    • Gate Navigation5-10 mins
    • Boarding10-15 mins

    For Employees

    Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.

    • General Cargo Cut-off60 mins pre-departure
    • Drop-off and DocumentationUpon Arrival
    • Security ScreeningFollowing Documentation
    • Baggage HandlingAfter Security Screening
    • U.S. Customs ClearanceAs Required
    • Sorting and LoadingPrior to Departure
    • Final VerificationBefore Loading

    Passengers' Tips & Tricks

    1. 1

      Arrive Early to Beat TSA Lines

      Historical data indicates that TSA wait times at BHM can peak around 14 minutes. Arriving significantly earlier than your scheduled departure time will allow you to navigate security with more ease and reduce stress.

    2. 2

      Utilize Mobile Check-In

      Birmingham Shuttlesworth International Airport encourages mobile check-in to streamline your process. Check with your airline for available options and save time at the check-in counters.

    3. 3

      Parking Strategies

      Compare parking rates and book online through airportguide.com to secure the best deals and avoid long lines upon arrival. Consider long-term parking options for extended trips.

    4. 4

      Explore Terminal Layout

      Familiarize yourself with the terminal layout beforehand to quickly locate your gate and amenities. The airport's website and information kiosks offer maps and navigational assistance.

    5. 5

      Check Flight Status Regularly

      Due to the volume of passenger movements, it's advisable to regularly check your flight status via the airline's app or the airport's website for any potential delays or gate changes.

    Cargo Tips & Tricks

    1. 1

      Book in Advance

      Air freight capacity fluctuates based on demand and seasonal factors. Booking shipments well in advance allows you to secure space and potentially negotiate better rates, especially for peak periods.

    2. 2

      Utilize the New Cargo Facility

      With the recent completion of the new international air cargo facility, leveraging this improved infrastructure is crucial. This facility, supported by partnerships like Kuehne + Nagel, streamlines operations and enhances efficiency for handling international cargo shipments.

    3. 3

      Strategic Location Advantage

      Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport’s location near the Southeastern corridor provides a logistical advantage for distributing goods across the region and beyond. Capitalize on this access for quicker transit times.

    4. 4

      Partner with Experienced Forwarders

      Collaborate with experienced forwarders who understand the intricacies of air cargo operations at BHM. They can provide valuable expertise in customs clearance, documentation, and routing optimization.

    5. 5

      Monitor Flight Schedules & Carrier Reliability

      Keep a close eye on flight schedules and carrier reliability to minimize delays and disruptions. Utilize tracking tools to monitor shipment progress and proactively address any potential issues.

    Tools & Resources

    Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.

    Data & Reports

    Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.

    Location & Maps

    Find Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport on popular mapping services.

    Interactive Map

    Map Legend

    Facility

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    Recommendations

    Policy Alignment

    Continue collaboration with federal agencies to secure infrastructure funding and support regional growth.

    Infrastructure Investment

    Prioritize terminal modernization and airfield improvements to accommodate rising demand.

    Sustainability Focus

    Expand sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact and comply with regulatory standards.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.

    What airlines operate out of Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)?

    BHM serves airlines including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines, among others. Concourse A primarily hosts American, Delta, and United, while Concourse B is mainly used by Southwest.

    How is BHM organized for travelers?

    BHM has a single main terminal building with two concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 10 gates and is primarily used by American, Delta, and United, while Concourse B has 7 gates and is used by Southwest Airlines.

    What transportation options are available at BHM?

    Various transportation options are available at BHM, including rental cars, taxis, rideshares (like Uber), shuttles (including those from Groome Transportation), and buses. A Ground Transportation Center is available for these services.

    Where can I find parking information at BHM?

    Parking rates, guides, and maps for BHM parking are available on the airport website at [https://www.ifly.com/airports/birmingham-international-airport] and through online comparison sites.

    For More Info

    Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.