Shortly after 1.30pm on Wednesday (23 October), BHX said it had suspended operations owing to an ongoing police incident and advised passengers not to attend until further notice.

West Midlands Police confirmed the airport was evacuated "following a report of suspicious vehicle", adding it was "a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and staff".

The all-clear was given after around two hours. A Birmingham airport spokesperson said: “Following a police investigation, some passengers were evacuated and we had to suspend departing flights for a couple of hours.

"That investigation has now concluded, and operations will slowly be returning to normal. All passengers are advised to check latest flight information from their airline. 

“While 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.”

In a further update at 5pm, the spokesperson added: “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."

West Midlands Police later confirmed its involved after responding to a report of a suspicious vehicle. "Following a search by the explosive ordnance disposal team the vehicle was deemed to be safe," said WMP. "The vehicle is no longer being treated as suspicious.

"The safety of all was our primary concern and there is no wider risk to the public. The airport has resumed normal business with minimal disruption. We would like to thank the public for their patience and support while we dealt with this incident."