Birmingham Airport announced it would be closing unexpectedly this afternoon (October 23) with some passengers and staff being evacuated.

At the time of the incident, the airport asked passengers to avoid turning up at the airport despite them having flights booked.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the airport said: “CUSTOMER INFORMATION

“@WMPolice is currently on-site dealing with an incident. Airport operations are currently suspended. Passengers are advised to NOT come to the airport at this time.

“The Airport’s social media channels will be updated as and when the situation changes.”

Why was Birmingham Airport closed today?

West Midlands Police explained on X that the force attended Birmingham Airport after receiving “reports of a suspicious vehicle”.

It added: “The safety of all was our primary concern and as a precautionary measure the airport was partially evacuated so the vehicle could be searched and assessed.”

Is Birmingham Airport back open now?

West Midlands Police and Birmingham Airport have confirmed the airport can operate once again and that it is "safe" to travel through it.

The police force said on X: “Following a search by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team the vehicle was deemed to be safe.

“The vehicle is no longer being treated as suspicious.

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“The safety of all was our primary concern and there is no wider risk to the public.”

The airport said: “CUSTOMER INFORMATION – UPDATED

“Following a Police investigation, operations are now returning to normal. If travelling today, customers are advised to check their latest flight information and arrive at the airport in line with their check-in opening times.

“Whilst we apologise for any inconvenience and disruption, the safety and security of everyone at the airport was our number one priority as we worked through this incident with Police partners.”