Passengers using Birmingham Airport (BHX) are being warned to prepare for significant delays when using the airport's monorail service, with disruption expected to continue until early 2026.
Essential Maintenance Causes Service Reduction
The airport has confirmed that its Air-Rail Link monorail service to Birmingham International Train Station will be reduced to operating with just one shuttle instead of the usual two. This essential planned maintenance work began on November 15, 2025 and is scheduled to continue until February 2026.
Typically, the free monorail service operates two shuttles on a dual track system, with journeys taking approximately two minutes between the airport terminal and the railway station. During this maintenance period, passengers will experience a reduced service frequency.
Revised Service Schedule and Peak Time Impact
Despite the reduction to a single shuttle, BHX has confirmed that the monorail will still operate daily from 3:30am to 12:30am, with shuttles running approximately every six minutes.
However, the airport has specifically warned that peak travel times will be most affected by the service reduction. During busy periods, passengers should anticipate extended waiting times and are being strongly advised to allow additional time for their journeys to and from the airport.
Alternative Options and Passenger Advice
For travellers concerned about potential delays, Birmingham Airport has highlighted that safe walking routes are available between the airport terminal and Birmingham International Station. This alternative may provide a more reliable option for those with limited time or during particularly busy periods.
The disruption is expected to significantly impact the many travellers who rely on train connections to reach the airport, making advance planning essential for anyone flying from BHX over the coming months.
A spokesperson for Birmingham Airport stated on social media platform X: "The Air-Rail Link will be operating on one-shuttle until February 2026 for essential planned maintenance. This may lead to extended waits at peak-times."
