Introduction
- Airport Name: Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)
- Location: Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Overview: BHM is Alabama’s largest airport, serving as a major gateway for passengers and cargo. It offers a convenient connection to destinations across the United States and beyond.
General Information
- Airport Codes:
- IATA: BHM
- ICAO: KBHM
- FAA: BHM
- Owner/Operator: Birmingham Airport Authority
- Year Opened: 1931
- Type of Airport: Commercial and general aviation
- Runways:
- 6/24: 12,007 feet, asphalt
- 18/36: 7,099 feet, asphalt
- Terminal Info: One main terminal with three concourses (A, B, and C).
History
- Founding: Established in 1931 as Birmingham Municipal Airport.
- Major Milestones:
- Renamed Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport in 2008 to honor Fred Shuttlesworth, a civil rights leader.
- Major terminal renovations completed in 2014.
- Expanded cargo facilities in recent years.
- Significant Events: Played a role in World War II as a training base.
Facilities
- Passenger Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, charging stations, restaurants, and retail stores.
- Plane Spotting Areas: Observation deck near the terminal parking lot.
- Parking: On-site parking includes short-term, long-term, and economy options, ranging from $1/hour to $24/day.
- Transportation Links: Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), taxis, and rental car services are available.
Aviation Statistics
- Annual Passenger Traffic: Approximately 3 million passengers in 2022.
- Cargo Volume: Handles over 22,000 tons of cargo annually.
- Movements: More than 100,000 aircraft operations yearly.
- Top Airlines and Routes:
- Airlines: Delta, Southwest, American, United
- Popular Routes: Atlanta (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Chicago O’Hare (ORD).
Operational Details
- Hours of Operation: Open 24/7.
- Contact Information:
- Phone: +1 (205) 595-0533
- Email: info@flybirmingham.com
- Address: 5900 Messer Airport Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35212
- Website and Social Media:
- Website: www.flybirmingham.com
- Social Media: Active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
For Plane Spotters
- Best Viewing Locations: Observation deck near the terminal or the Eastlake Boulevard area for runway views.
- Radio Frequencies:
- Ground Control: 121.9 MHz
- Tower: 123.8 MHz
- Photography Tips: Morning and evening light provide the best conditions for photos of aircraft on the 6/24 runway.
Economic and Community Impact
- Local Employment: Supports over 18,000 jobs directly and indirectly.
- Economic Contribution: Generates $1.5 billion in economic activity annually.
- Community Involvement: Hosts educational tours and participates in local community events.
Fun Facts and Trivia
- Unique Features: Home to Alabama’s Air National Guard 117th Air Refueling Wing.
- Famous Visitors: Hosts high-profile events, including visits from U.S. Presidents.
- Pop Culture: Featured in documentaries highlighting civil rights movement history.
Media Gallery
- Photos: Vintage shots of the airport in the 1930s and modern HDR images of the terminal.
- Videos: Time-lapse of airport operations and drone footage of the surrounding area.
- Interactive Map: Google Maps.
Future Plans
- Upcoming Projects: Plans for further terminal upgrades and enhanced cargo facilities.
- Master Plan: Focus on sustainability, passenger growth, and expanding international routes.
Feedback and Reviews
- Traveler Experiences: Passengers praise the airport for its cleanliness and ease of navigation.
- Plane Spotter Highlights: Popular for spotting military and commercial aircraft.
- Suggestions Box: Submit feedback via the airport’s website or social media.
Nearby Attractions
- Hotels: Sheraton Birmingham Hotel and Holiday Inn Express are nearby.
- Dining: Local favorites like Saw’s BBQ and The Fish Market Restaurant are a short drive away.
- Tourist Spots: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park, and the Barber Motorsports Museum.
