BIRMINGHAM - 6
Join Date: Nov 2010
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The AA rumour doesnt surprise me. With United offering similar prices to EWR with a better onboard service such as seat back IFE its no wonder that passengers are opting for United. I know this was part of my thinking when I booked to go to NYC earlier in the year.
Join Date: Jul 2016
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I think we need to be realistic when it comes to BHX and US routes. The demand is not strong enough to support multiple routes and destinations (especially with the pound on the floor). It is not helped that the current options use old airframes with fairly average at best service levels, whilst most of the time prices are high compared to other options.
In addition IAG seem to be expanding Aer Lingus US network ex Dublin which will be an attractive option for current BHX UA/AA passengers especially as you can clear US immigration in Dublin (whilst price and product are probably better too).
Previously thought that BHX has the potential to support more US Leisure routes / frequencies - LAS/SFB etc - in the short term brexit has put an end to this however at some point such routes maybe viable.
Regardless people shouldn't loose sight of how well BHX has done recently in terms of passenger growth and route expansion.
In addition IAG seem to be expanding Aer Lingus US network ex Dublin which will be an attractive option for current BHX UA/AA passengers especially as you can clear US immigration in Dublin (whilst price and product are probably better too).
Previously thought that BHX has the potential to support more US Leisure routes / frequencies - LAS/SFB etc - in the short term brexit has put an end to this however at some point such routes maybe viable.
Regardless people shouldn't loose sight of how well BHX has done recently in terms of passenger growth and route expansion.
Join Date: Aug 2006
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Absolutely no surprise that JFK is rumoured for the chop. Loads in the main have been dismal and apart from a short lived advert in the Bull Ring last year I haven't seen the route advertised at all. It's a shame but clearly the figures don't add up. With multiple daily flights from LHR on better long haul metal and usually much cheaper, NYC from BHX is always going to be difficult. AA's departure should keep UA safe for now.
PK made some comnent last year about farming. I think his crops need very carefully tending after such spectacular growth in airlines last year there were bound to be casualties. I'm not convinced the morning EK will come back after its Nov suspension, to be honest 2 x EK and 1 x QR is enough?
PK made some comnent last year about farming. I think his crops need very carefully tending after such spectacular growth in airlines last year there were bound to be casualties. I'm not convinced the morning EK will come back after its Nov suspension, to be honest 2 x EK and 1 x QR is enough?
Join Date: Aug 2006
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TubbyLinton has a point about BHX. The main check in concourse is dark and when busy is chaotic and reminds me of the old T3 check in at LHR before its refurb. How much longer will FR and DY put up being squeezed into a corner? As for the remaining desks down to the EK check in, there is very little space when a full TCX or TK flight is checking in. Sorry to be negative but it is all starting to look a bit dated. Investment in facilities is equally as important as getting as many airlines in as possible.
Join Date: Jan 2006
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AA JFK
CATIII-NDB
I don't think it was much of a secret that BHX were chasing a link to Chicago and JFK was a surprise to most.
If BHX is to get another JFK I would like to see Norwegian try on the 738 MAX as they seem to have a good product and probably be able to price it better for the Midlands market.
tubby linton
I used AA131 on 30 June and it was predominantly UK outbound tourists (around 100-110) with business around half full one of which was a regular and I had a long chat with him due to JFK's glorious arrival procedures. He works in Bermuda and used to live in Shropshire and made no comment on BHX or American his wrath was directed at the JFK procedures and staff.
The return flight had around 100-110 as well but quite a few Americans this time some of which moved themselves to premium economy when they noticed empty seats.
This service I doubt would get many repeat customers in Y or y+, as it is basically 1990's. As you say there will be little loss of pax only maybe loss of face or prestige (although that is a bit strong).
I would concur that if travelling BHX-JFK, BHX is least of your problems. I have also departed recently at 0700 on a Monday morning and although packed the airport coped well with security 5 minutes or less although I have to agree the low ceilings and lack of natural light is not great but a walk up the International Pier brightens the mood.
Swiss
Seems the C Series start-up has been pushed back to December with Helvetic and the RJ100 now reappearing in the New Year schedules.
Monarch
They have added a few Tenerife flights with now two on a Saturday and two some Fridays but Gibraltar has a rest from 8/1/17 - 13/2/17
Pete
I don't think it was much of a secret that BHX were chasing a link to Chicago and JFK was a surprise to most.
If BHX is to get another JFK I would like to see Norwegian try on the 738 MAX as they seem to have a good product and probably be able to price it better for the Midlands market.
tubby linton
I used AA131 on 30 June and it was predominantly UK outbound tourists (around 100-110) with business around half full one of which was a regular and I had a long chat with him due to JFK's glorious arrival procedures. He works in Bermuda and used to live in Shropshire and made no comment on BHX or American his wrath was directed at the JFK procedures and staff.
The return flight had around 100-110 as well but quite a few Americans this time some of which moved themselves to premium economy when they noticed empty seats.
This service I doubt would get many repeat customers in Y or y+, as it is basically 1990's. As you say there will be little loss of pax only maybe loss of face or prestige (although that is a bit strong).
I would concur that if travelling BHX-JFK, BHX is least of your problems. I have also departed recently at 0700 on a Monday morning and although packed the airport coped well with security 5 minutes or less although I have to agree the low ceilings and lack of natural light is not great but a walk up the International Pier brightens the mood.
Swiss
Seems the C Series start-up has been pushed back to December with Helvetic and the RJ100 now reappearing in the New Year schedules.
Monarch
They have added a few Tenerife flights with now two on a Saturday and two some Fridays but Gibraltar has a rest from 8/1/17 - 13/2/17
Pete
Join Date: Jul 2016
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Having flown in and out of BHX/LHR T4/MANT2 in the past year BHX was easily the best passenger experience. The departure central security search at BHX was particularly easy to navigate compared to MAN T2 which was very slow and disorganised. The kids Skyzone at BHX also helped keep my son entertained which helped kill some time.
That said, agree that the check-in area at BHX is cramped at peak times whilst the size of the immigration hall / baggage delivery could be improved. The E gate system never works for me in arrivals first time - but that could be me. Personally I don't like having to walking through duty free but this seems to be the trend now and I suppose it make sense in terms of revenue generation.
That said, agree that the check-in area at BHX is cramped at peak times whilst the size of the immigration hall / baggage delivery could be improved. The E gate system never works for me in arrivals first time - but that could be me. Personally I don't like having to walking through duty free but this seems to be the trend now and I suppose it make sense in terms of revenue generation.
Join Date: Oct 2007
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PIA A330's
Islamabad—The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has planned to induct second A-330 aircraft in its Premier Service, launched on August 14 this year on London route, in the next month, official sources said. “All flights of London will be operated on airbus A-330 with the Premier service,” the sources told APP. Commenting on the future plan, they informed that the third airbus was being planned to enroll in the Premier fleet in February 2017. While, the PIA would also be looking for the service expansion to other suggested international routes like Toronto, New York, Birmingham and Beijing, they added.
At present, they said, the Premier service flights from Islamabad to London were being operated on Monday, Wednesday and Sunday, while from Lahore to London on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Commenting on the return schedule, they said, the flights operated from London to Islamabad on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday, whereas from London to Lahore on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
The aircraft is equipped with 38 business and 269 economy class seats, LCD screens and flight entertainment with 250 channels and flat bed service for business passengers. In addition, a complimentary limousine service is also being extended to the business class passengers at the Heathrow airport for their destinations within a radius of 25 kilometers. Currently, the sources said, the PIA fleet was consisted of 38 aircraft including 11 A-320 Airbuses, five A-310 Airbuses, 11 Boeing- 777, six ATR-42 and five ATR-72.—APP
At present, they said, the Premier service flights from Islamabad to London were being operated on Monday, Wednesday and Sunday, while from Lahore to London on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Commenting on the return schedule, they said, the flights operated from London to Islamabad on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday, whereas from London to Lahore on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
The aircraft is equipped with 38 business and 269 economy class seats, LCD screens and flight entertainment with 250 channels and flat bed service for business passengers. In addition, a complimentary limousine service is also being extended to the business class passengers at the Heathrow airport for their destinations within a radius of 25 kilometers. Currently, the sources said, the PIA fleet was consisted of 38 aircraft including 11 A-320 Airbuses, five A-310 Airbuses, 11 Boeing- 777, six ATR-42 and five ATR-72.—APP
That said, agree that the check-in area at BHX is cramped at peak times whilst the size of the immigration hall / baggage delivery could be improved. The E gate system never works for me in arrivals first time - but that could be me. Personally I don't like having to walking through duty free but this seems to be the trend now and I suppose it make sense in terms of revenue generation.
Is the check-in system these days largely patronised by the bucket-and-spade brigade, and long haul passengers?
If the trend towards on line check-in continues, is it really worth airports investing more money in the check-in areas for the medium / long term?
If investment in space is required, surely the main areas to address are immigration and baggage reclaim, since passengers are at their most grumpy and irritated on arrival, and will most likely rate their experience on this segment of the journey rather than pre-flight.
As for the Duty Free maze - if I were BHX I'd generate revenue by allowing passengers to pay a £5 fee to bypass the shopping area - leaving the DF area to shopaholics who can't tell a ripoff when they see one!
Join Date: Feb 2016
Location: Birmingham
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Join Date: Jan 2006
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Czech Airlines
AvGeek1
Credit: CAA Provisonal figures
May 3422 pax
June 5017 pax
May I believe had 36 sectors which makes it 95 per flight or 79% based on a 34 x 128 seat A319 and 2 x 64 seat ATR72.
June was 116 per flight based on 44 sectors or 89% load factor.
June is based on FR24 for flights operated and May is based on libhomeradar.
There were a couple of 734's in June but not sure of the seating on those so the load factors might be a bit lower.
As jfy999 has stated down to 4 a week now through to next summer.
NYC
Both AA & UA drop to 6 a week from this week with the AA night-stopping again Tuesday.
ATNotts
Love that idea of paying to by-pass Duty Free
. Mrs OP would happily pay £5 for me to by-pass duty free so I can't see how much she spending until it is too late 
BHXBDB
Just the 10 yes 10 egates working last Monday night!!! First tie I had used them as they didn't bother opening any when arriving back from JFK in July.
Pete
Credit: CAA Provisonal figures
May 3422 pax
June 5017 pax
May I believe had 36 sectors which makes it 95 per flight or 79% based on a 34 x 128 seat A319 and 2 x 64 seat ATR72.
June was 116 per flight based on 44 sectors or 89% load factor.
June is based on FR24 for flights operated and May is based on libhomeradar.
There were a couple of 734's in June but not sure of the seating on those so the load factors might be a bit lower.
As jfy999 has stated down to 4 a week now through to next summer.
NYC
Both AA & UA drop to 6 a week from this week with the AA night-stopping again Tuesday.
ATNotts
Love that idea of paying to by-pass Duty Free
. Mrs OP would happily pay £5 for me to by-pass duty free so I can't see how much she spending until it is too late BHXBDB
Just the 10 yes 10 egates working last Monday night!!! First tie I had used them as they didn't bother opening any when arriving back from JFK in July.
Pete
Join Date: Apr 2016
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Airport, sorry I blinked on the way through
"I would concur that if travelling BHX-JFK, BHX is least of your problems. "
As a frequent premium long haul traveler I second some of OltonPete's remarks.
For me facilities in the airport at either end are not so important. The biggest feature is simply being near where you want your journey to start or end.
Minimizing time in transit is very important. That makes nonstops like BHX/JFK really valuable and far more important than the facilities at BHX.
What is different is when you *have* to connect. Then the airport you connect in can make a big difference to your journey.
I don't think a lot of premium passengers connect at BHX, so I don't think the facilities matter that much and the airport is perfectly adequate.
2 cents.
As a frequent premium long haul traveler I second some of OltonPete's remarks.
For me facilities in the airport at either end are not so important. The biggest feature is simply being near where you want your journey to start or end.
Minimizing time in transit is very important. That makes nonstops like BHX/JFK really valuable and far more important than the facilities at BHX.
What is different is when you *have* to connect. Then the airport you connect in can make a big difference to your journey.
I don't think a lot of premium passengers connect at BHX, so I don't think the facilities matter that much and the airport is perfectly adequate.
2 cents.
Join Date: Sep 2016
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I think Monarch should ensure their check in and info systems at BHX are in place, viable and with robust back up before expanding further. Three hour delays across the board on 11/9 because of a "system failure" and no viable back up .... allegedly.
Join Date: Oct 2007
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Reports suggest Treasury Minister Jim O'Neill has urged Theresa May to look again at increasing city's airport as a way of tackling London's aviation congestion
Could Birmingham Airport be expanded?
An expanded Birmingham Airport is being considered by Prime Minister Theresa May as a way to tackle the capital's congestion in the skies, according to reports.
The Financial Times says Treasury Minister Jim O'Neill has urged Number 10 to consider the potential for growth at the airport once it is linked with London via high-speed rail line HS2.
Once up and running in 2026, journey times between the airport and and London are expected to be slashed to around 40 minutes.
There would be further incentives once additional high-speed rail lines connecting Birmingham with Manchester and Leeds open in 2033 under the second phase of HS2.
Read More
HS2 chief to join Rolls-Royce
Lord O'Neill's remit covers infrastructure and regional development and his intervention comes as the Cabinet decides whether to expand Heathrow or Gatwick - the latter being the favoured choice of Birmingham Airport's chief executive Paul Kehoe.
Howard Davies' airports review gave those two airports as the best options for expansion but the FT's report said Lord O'Neill had told Number 10 that opting for a big expansion at Birmingham would send a massive signal on rebalancing the British economy.
A decision could be taken next month on this expansion and leaked documents hint that MPs will be given a free vote.
Lord Davies eliminated Birmingham from his review at an early stage and argued there was not a strong case for expanding the airport.
His commission said in 2013 that Birmingham Airport would not be operating at capacity until the mid-2040s and its expansion would lead to an increase in noise for a relatively high number of people, the FT reported.
Read More
Terrorism 'to blame' for flights from Birmingham to New York being scrapped
A statement from the airport said: "A vibrant Birmingham Airport is vital to the growth of our region and we need to maximise the benefits of HS2.
"With HS2's arrival in ten years, Birmingham Airport will become the UK's first high-speed connected airport and its catchment area will be dramatically enlarged into central London, giving it an increasingly national role."
Could Birmingham Airport be expanded?
An expanded Birmingham Airport is being considered by Prime Minister Theresa May as a way to tackle the capital's congestion in the skies, according to reports.
The Financial Times says Treasury Minister Jim O'Neill has urged Number 10 to consider the potential for growth at the airport once it is linked with London via high-speed rail line HS2.
Once up and running in 2026, journey times between the airport and and London are expected to be slashed to around 40 minutes.
There would be further incentives once additional high-speed rail lines connecting Birmingham with Manchester and Leeds open in 2033 under the second phase of HS2.
Read More
HS2 chief to join Rolls-Royce
Lord O'Neill's remit covers infrastructure and regional development and his intervention comes as the Cabinet decides whether to expand Heathrow or Gatwick - the latter being the favoured choice of Birmingham Airport's chief executive Paul Kehoe.
Howard Davies' airports review gave those two airports as the best options for expansion but the FT's report said Lord O'Neill had told Number 10 that opting for a big expansion at Birmingham would send a massive signal on rebalancing the British economy.
A decision could be taken next month on this expansion and leaked documents hint that MPs will be given a free vote.
Lord Davies eliminated Birmingham from his review at an early stage and argued there was not a strong case for expanding the airport.
His commission said in 2013 that Birmingham Airport would not be operating at capacity until the mid-2040s and its expansion would lead to an increase in noise for a relatively high number of people, the FT reported.
Read More
Terrorism 'to blame' for flights from Birmingham to New York being scrapped
A statement from the airport said: "A vibrant Birmingham Airport is vital to the growth of our region and we need to maximise the benefits of HS2.
"With HS2's arrival in ten years, Birmingham Airport will become the UK's first high-speed connected airport and its catchment area will be dramatically enlarged into central London, giving it an increasingly national role."
I really cannot see the benefit of HS2 to the airport. There are already five trains an hour to London and three of which take about 75minutes to Euston.Fares are also very reasonable if you pre book. I cannot see a slighly quicker journey making any difference to catchment. I would like to see a twenty four hour service though, even if it was a slow train. The problem at the London end is Euston as the underground is not really equipped for anybody with significant amounts of baggage.I have seen no mention of enlarging the Euston underground station in any of the plans for the HS1 terminal. I would personally build a new station adjacent to Kings Cross/ St Pancras for HS2 so that it links to Thameslink, and HS1 and the Eurostar.
I would personally build a new station adjacent to Kings Cross/ St Pancras for HS2 so that it links to Thameslink, and HS1 and the Eurostar.
I really cannot see the benefit of HS2 to the airport. There are already five trains an hour to London and three of which take about 75minutes to Euston.Fares are also very reasonable if you pre book. I cannot see a slighly quicker journey making any difference to catchment.
I think Monarch should ensure their check in and info systems at BHX are in place, viable and with robust back up before expanding further. Three hour delays across the board on 11/9 because of a "system failure" and no viable back up .... allegedly.