If you're coming from or going to Alabama, you'll likely travel through Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)—the state's largest and busiest airport. BHM is a significant business travel airport, tourist airport, and general-use airport for the locals, making it a central hub for travel within Alabama. Whether you're a frequent flyer or this is your inaugural trip to the airport, being informed can change a stressful travel day and one experience into a smooth one.
This complete Birmingham airport guide covers everything you need about Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, including helpful parking tips, restaurants, terminal layout, security tips, and more.
Located approximately five miles northeast of downtown Birmingham, BHM airport serves over three million passengers annually. The airport is named after civil rights leader Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth and is the principal airport for central Alabama.
BHM connects to the major airport hubs -- Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Charlotte, and Chicago -- and receives service from the following airlines:
The airport's convenient location, size, and amenities have made it a go-to airport for residents of Alabama and people traveling to the region.
BHM has one primary terminal that is split into three concourses:
All concourses have easy access from the central security screening area. BHM is a small airport compared to sprawling international hubs, so you should make it through quickly.
As you travel through BHM, utilizing this terminal map will help you either when departing or awaiting your loved one's arrival.
Finding parking at an airport can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle. Luckily, Birmingham-Shuttlesworth Airport offers multiple parking options to suit all needs and budgets.
Pro Parking Tips:
This BHM airport parking guide helps take the guesswork out of where to leave your car before takeoff.
Whether craving a quick coffee or a sit-down meal, BHM has several dining options to keep you fueled before your flight.
In this Birmingham airport guide, don’t miss the chance to taste a bit of the South before boarding your flight.
Navigating security can be the most stressful part of any airport experience. At BHM, it’s typically a smooth process, but it pays to be prepared.
These BHM airport security and baggage handling tips can help ensure a smooth departure or arrival, save time, and reduce stress.
BHM services four major carriers with multiple daily departures. Airline counters are located on the departures level near the main entrance.
| Airline | Check-In Area | Destinations |
| American Airlines | Zone A | Charlotte, Dallas, Miami |
| Delta Air Lines | Zone B | Atlanta, Detroit |
| Southwest Airlines | Zone C | Houston, Denver, Baltimore |
| United Airlines | Zone B | Chicago, Houston |
Knowing where to go and when with this flight info breakdown makes navigating BHM much easier.
Once you land, the airport offers various ground transport services, making getting to your final destination simple.
This BHM airport guide ensures you won’t be stranded once you’ve landed.
BHM is committed to providing a smooth experience for every traveler, regardless of ability or age.
Whether traveling with toddlers or needing mobility support, BHM has you covered.
Need to stay close to the airport or unwind before your flight?
BHM does not have an airline-branded lounge, but the airport plans to expand lounge services in future renovations. Frequent travelers often use
Stay relaxed and refreshed with these nearby hotels and rest stops.
As the largest airport in Alabama, BHM continues to evolve to better serve flyers in the Southeast and beyond.
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth provides a stress-free environment by combining big-city flight choices with the feel and efficiency of a smaller regional airport.
Whether you're arriving or departing, just having a layover, or using BHM as your home airport, this guide has provided you with the essentials. Now that you have the inside scoop on Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, you're ready to tackle your next trip through BHM in a more friendly, quicker, and maybe even pleasant fashion.
With good parking information, a good terminal map, various restaurants, and speedy security, BHM has established itself as more than just an airport; it has become your entrance to everything Alabama offers.
This content was created by AI