Overview of Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) is a public airport located in Birmingham, Alabama. The airport serves the greater Birmingham metropolitan area and the surrounding regions. BHM is the largest airport in Alabama by passenger volume and the busiest airport in the state.
The airport is named after Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth, who was a prominent civil rights leader in the Birmingham area. BHM was previously known as Birmingham Municipal Airport and was later renamed Birmingham International Airport before its current name.
BHM has one terminal building with two concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. The airport offers non-stop flights to over 30 destinations in the United States, including major cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and New York City.
The airport has a variety of amenities and services for travelers, including lounges, restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi. BHM also has a baggage storage service, a pet relief area, and a nursing room for mothers.
BHM has a strategic location and serves as a hub for several airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. The airport is easily accessible from downtown Birmingham and other surrounding areas through several transportation options, including taxis, rental cars, and public transportation.
Overall, Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is a modern and efficient airport that provides a convenient and comfortable travel experience for passengers traveling to and from Birmingham, Alabama.
Terminals at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) has one terminal building with two levels. The terminal is divided into two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B.
Concourse A serves American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. This concourse has 13 gates (A1-A13) and offers various services such as restaurants, bars, newsstands, gift shops, and charging stations.
Concourse B serves United Airlines and Frontier Airlines. This concourse has six gates (B1-B6) and offers food options, a Delta Sky Club, and charging stations.
The terminal building features modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, ATMs, currency exchange, baggage storage, and rental car counters. Passengers can also enjoy shopping at the Hudson News and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame Museum.
The airport has recently undergone a $201 million renovation project that included upgrades to the terminal building, parking garage, and airfield. The renovation project has improved the airport’s efficiency, security, and customer experience.
BHM also offers a convenient shuttle bus service that connects the terminal building to the economy parking lot. Passengers can park their cars in the economy lot and ride the shuttle to the terminal for only $3 per day.
Overall, the terminals at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport provide a comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers. With modern amenities, excellent services, and a friendly staff, BHM is a great airport choice for travelers flying to or from Birmingham, Alabama.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.
American Airlines offers domestic flights to Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Philadelphia. They also offer international flights to Cancun, Mexico, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Delta Air Lines operates domestic flights to Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis/St. Paul, and New York LaGuardia. They also offer international flights to Cancun, Mexico, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Southwest Airlines provides domestic flights to Baltimore/Washington D.C., Chicago, Dallas, Houston Hobby, and Orlando.
United Airlines offers domestic flights to Chicago, Denver, Houston, Newark, and Washington Dulles. They also offer seasonal international flights to Cancun, Mexico.
It is important to note that airline routes and destinations may change seasonally, so it is advisable to check with the airline for any updates or changes.
Transportation Options at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is located just five miles from downtown Birmingham, Alabama. To get to the city or nearby destinations, there are several transportation options available for travelers.
One popular option is to take advantage of the airport shuttle service. The shuttle provides transportation to and from the airport to various locations throughout Birmingham. This is a convenient option for those who do not want to rent a car or deal with the hassle of figuring out public transportation.
For those who prefer to have their own vehicle, there are several car rental companies located at the airport. Some of the most popular companies include Avis, Enterprise, and Hertz. The rental car counters are located in the baggage claim area of the airport.
Another option for getting around Birmingham is the shuttle bus service. This service provides transportation to and from the airport to several hotels in the Birmingham area. The shuttle bus runs on a regular schedule and is a cost-effective way to get to your final destination.
If you are looking for more affordable transportation options, there are several train lines located near the airport. Amtrak provides direct service from Birmingham to several major cities in the Southeast United States. The station is located just a few blocks from the airport, and shuttle service is provided to transport passengers between the two locations.
Finally, for those who prefer a more traditional form of public transportation, the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) operates a local bus system. The BJCTA provides regular service to and from the airport, making it an easy and affordable option for getting around town.
No matter what your transportation needs are when visiting Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, there are plenty of options available to choose from. From rental cars to shuttle buses and everything in between, travelers are sure to find a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
Parking Options
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport offers various parking options for travelers, including the Terminal Parking Deck and Economy Parking Lots. The Terminal Parking Deck is conveniently located just steps away from the terminal building and is ideal for short-term parking.
The Terminal Parking Deck charges $1 per half-hour for the first two hours, then a flat rate of $24 per day after that. Alternatively, travelers who are looking for long-term parking can opt for the Economy Parking Lots, located off Messer Airport Highway. Shuttle buses run between the Economy Parking Lots and the terminal building every 10-15 minutes, making this option convenient for those with larger groups or heavy luggage.
The Economy Parking Lots charge $3 for the first hour, $2 for each additional hour, and a maximum of $12 per day. These lots also offer discounted rates for extended stays, with a weekly rate of $66 for up to seven days. Additionally, there is a cell phone waiting lot near the airport’s entrance where visitors can wait for arriving passengers free of charge. With multiple parking options available, travelers at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport can choose the best option to fit their needs and budget.
Check-In Procedures
At Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, passengers have the option of checking in through various methods.
Online check-in is available 24 hours prior to departure and allows passengers to select their seats and print their boarding passes from the convenience of their own device.
Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport for those who prefer to check-in upon arrival. These kiosks allow passengers to print their boarding pass and baggage tags before proceeding to the bag drop off area.
For those who prefer traditional check-in, there are designated counters located throughout the terminal where airline representatives will assist passengers with their check-in process. Here, passengers can ask questions, receive assistance with their baggage, and obtain their boarding passes before proceeding to security.
Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to arrive at least 2 hours prior to domestic flights and 3 hours prior to international flights to allow ample time for the check-in process.
Overall, Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport offers multiple options for passengers to ensure a smooth and efficient check-in experience.
Security Measures at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
Before you fly out from BHM, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the security procedures in place. TSA officers use advanced technology to screen passengers and their baggage, so be prepared to take off your shoes, belt, and jacket before walking through the metal detector or full-body scanner.
You will also need to present a valid ID and boarding pass, and any liquids must be in a quart-sized bag and placed in a bin for screening. To minimize wait time, consider arriving at least two hours before your flight and packing your bag in an organized and easily accessible manner.
By following these tips and adhering to the security measures in place, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience at BHM.
Customs and Immigration Process at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
Arriving passengers must first go through passport control and then collect their luggage. From there, they proceed to the customs area where they declare any items that need to be declared and may be subject to taxation.
After clearing customs, passengers can exit through the terminal doors and make their way to baggage claim or ground transportation.
For departing passengers, the process is similar. They must check in with their airline and drop off any checked luggage. Then, they will proceed through security and passport control before boarding their flight.
It is important to note that customs and immigration processes may vary based on nationality and other factors, so passengers should check with their airline or the airport for specific information regarding their travel plans.
Amenities:
– Free Wi-Fi
– ATMs and currency exchange
– Restaurants, cafes, and bars
– Retail shops selling souvenirs, books, and snacks
– Charging stations for electronic devices
– Children’s play areas
– Pet relief areas
– Conference rooms and business centers
– Art exhibits and displays
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport offers a wide range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for travelers. Passengers can stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the airport or access cash and exchange currency at ATMs. There are various dining options available, ranging from sit-down restaurants to quick cafes and bars.
Retail shops offer a selection of souvenirs, books, and snacks to take home or enjoy during the flight. Travelers can also charge their electronic devices at designated charging stations. Families traveling with children can take advantage of the airport’s play areas, while pet owners can utilize the pet relief areas. For those on business trips, Birmingham-Shuttlesworth offers conference rooms and business centers. Additionally, the airport features rotating art exhibits and displays to showcase local culture and talent.
Accessibility Services
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport strives to provide a comfortable and seamless travel experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport offers a range of facilities and services designed to meet the needs of these passengers, including accessible parking, curb-to-gate assistance, wheelchair and assistive device rentals, and accessible restrooms and seating areas.
Passengers with specific requests or questions about accessibility services can contact the airport’s Customer Service department in advance of their arrival to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Connecting Flights at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
When connecting flights at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, it is important to know which concourse your next flight departs from.
Signage and airport staff can assist with navigating the airport and finding your gate. Be sure to check the flight information displays for any gate or time changes.
If you have a tight connection, consider using the airport’s shuttle service to quickly move between concourses. Finally, if you are unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask an airport employee for assistance.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, passengers will have to proceed to the baggage claim area located on the lower level of the terminal building. Baggage claim areas are labeled with the airline’s name and flight number.
Passengers are advised to keep a close eye on their luggage during the retrieval process and report any missing or damaged items upon discovery. For lost property, passengers must report to the airport’s Lost and Found department, located on the upper level of the terminal building.
The Lost and Found department can be reached by phone or email, and passengers may file a report online as well. It is recommended that passengers keep all receipts and tags for identification purposes when reporting lost baggage. If items are found, the airport will contact the passenger directly.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, trained medical personnel are on site to respond promptly.
The airport also has a fully equipped medical facility that provides emergency medical services, including first aid, medication, and ambulance services.
For any emergency situations, passengers can dial 911 from any airport phone or ask for assistance from airport staff.
If a passenger requires special medical attention, they can request wheelchair assistance or medical escorts from the airline in advance.
Hotel Accommodations
Visitors to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport will find a variety of hotel accommodations within or near the airport.
Some hotels located within the airport area include Holiday Inn Birmingham-Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham Airport, and Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham Airport Area.
Other hotels just a short distance from the airport include Comfort Inn Airport, Red Roof Inn Birmingham Airport, and Quality Inn Airport – Southeast.
All these hotels are located within a maximum distance of 3 miles from the airport, providing convenience and easy access for travelers.
With comfortable rooms, great amenities, and affordable prices, these hotels offer a perfect stay for both business and leisure travelers.
Useful Tips
– Plan to arrive at least two hours before your flight to allow time for security checks and getting to your gate.
– Take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi to stay connected while waiting for your flight.
– If you have some time to spare, explore the airport’s art collection, which features works by local and national artists.
– Need a quick bite or a last-minute travel essential? Check out one of the airport’s many restaurants, shops, and convenience stores.
– Ensure that you have all necessary travel documents and boarding passes handy before going through security to avoid delays.
– If you’re traveling with young children, take advantage of the airport’s play areas and family restrooms.
– For a more comfortable travel experience, consider purchasing lounge access or upgrading to a premium seating option.
– When navigating the airport, pay attention to overhead signage and follow the directions of airport staff to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Contact Information
Airport Information: 205-599-0500
Lost and Found: 205-599-0690
Parking: 205-599-0730
Security Checkpoint: 205-592-2162
Customer Service: 205-599-0533
TSA: 866-289-9673
Concessions: 205-599-0577
Airport Police: 205-599-0610
Maintenance: 205-599-0720
Airports near Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
There are several airports within a reasonable distance of Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport:
- Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (134 miles) – accessible by car via I-20 or I-85, or by Greyhound bus
- Nashville International Airport (190 miles) – accessible by car via I-65, or by Greyhound bus
- Memphis International Airport (255 miles) – accessible by car via I-22, or by Greyhound bus
Some transportation options available to reach these airports include:
- Car rental
- Taxi or rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft
- Shuttle services provided by the airports or third-party companies
- Public transportation, such as buses or trains
When considering alternative flight options, travelers should keep in mind the distance to these airports and the time it may take to reach them using different transportation methods.