

Birmingham Airport is preparing for its busiest October half-term on record, with 419,775 passengers expected to pass through the terminal during the week-long school holiday. That beats last year’s October half-term record of 415,995 passengers.
Families are heading off on autumn breaks, chasing winter sun or visiting friends and relatives overseas. Dublin, Amsterdam, Dubai, Alicante and Palma de Mallorca are expected to be the airport’s five most popular destinations during the break.
The record follows a strong year for the airport, which handled a record 13.7 million passengers in 2025.
The busy half-term period coincides with two new routes from Birmingham, giving travellers more options for international trips.
EGYPTAIR launched its first Birmingham-to-Cairo service on Sunday 25 October. According to Routes' report on the inaugural flight, the route operates four times a week and makes Birmingham the airline's third UK destination. It also offers onward connections from Cairo to destinations across Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
easyJet's new direct route from Birmingham to Agadir, Morocco, is scheduled to begin on 27 October, adding another option for travellers planning a winter-sun break. Check Birmingham Airport's official news updates for the latest route information.
With passenger numbers expected to reach a new high, a little preparation can help make the airport experience smoother. Travellers should:
Check check-in times: Confirm when your airline's check-in desk opens and closes.
Review baggage rules: Check your cabin-bag dimensions, weight limits and any additional baggage charges directly with your airline.
Plan your journey: Allow enough time to reach the terminal and check live traffic information from National Highways if you're driving.
Security rules can vary between airports. Birmingham Airport's screening arrangements may allow liquids in containers of up to two litres, but travellers should check the airport's latest security guidance before packing.
Do not assume the same allowance applies at your destination or on your return journey. Check the rules at every airport on your itinerary to avoid delays at security.
Busy holiday periods are a good reminder to compare flight times, baggage allowances and departure airports before booking. Looking at the total cost, rather than just the headline fare, can help you make a more informed decision.
TravelApp UK helps travellers compare flight options and plan trips from the UK, whether they're visiting family overseas or arranging their next holiday.
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