Majority of flights take off following Birmingham Airport evacuation

Nearly all flights which were held back following a security issue at Birmingham Airport have taken off. All services were suspended after police and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team descended on the hub to investigate a suspicious vehicle just after midday on Wednesday (Oct 23).

Passengers were told not to travel to the airport while others were not allowed to leave planes. The vehicle was deemed safe and services returned to normal around 3.30pm.

The airport said the majority of flights that were held on the ground have now departed. They added only one flight was cancelled as a result of the incient.

Read More: Birmingham Airport evacuated live as operations begin to return to normal

A Birmingham Airport spokesperson said: “Birmingham Airport is working closely with its airline partners to minimise any potential disruption to customers. The majority of flights that were held on the ground have now departed, with only one cancelled flight.

"Customers are still advised to check their flight status with their airline. We again apologise for the inconvenience to our passengers but their safety and security is our priority."

West Midlands Fire Service sent a number of personnel to the airport to provide help if needed. They have now been 'stood down' after the airport resumed services.

The service said: "The airport is now allowing passengers and staff to return to normal business. Our staff on standby have been stood down and our officers have left the scene. Thank you for your patience while we ensured the area was safe."