Airport extension set to boost flights

Plans to extend the main runway of Birmingham International Airport (BIA) will boost options for passengers looking to fly long-haul, according to officials.

The airport has confirmed that it has received approval for the finalisation of a planning application for the development, which would see the runway extended by 400 metres.

It said that if the proposals go ahead, the airport would be able to offer a choice of flights on par with those provided by airports in Manchester and London.

John Morris, head of corporate and community affairs for BIA, stated: "Adding another 400 metres to the main runway will dramatically increase the capability of Birmingham International Airport and the economic fortunes of the region."

He added that the extension would mean that BIA could become a hub for direct flights to locations such as the US west coast, the far east and other distant destinations.

According to the airport, there are about nine million people who live within a one-hour drive of BIA.

However, less than half of these currently use the airport.

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