Birmingham Airport terminal evacuated as hundreds forced outside after baggage reclaim 'incident'

Images posted on social media show dozens of people standing outside with emergency crews on the scene.

Passengers were being told to remain on planes while emergency services investigate the incident.

Martin Parwar posted to Facebook: “I’m sitting on the runway .. nobody is allowed to leave the plane.”

Another passenger described smelling smoke while alarms went off.

Vicky told BirminghamLive: “Arrivals and baggage area was very smokey, chemical like.

“Bags were still being off-loaded. Then alarms went off and we were evacuated.

“Move from various assembly points and still waiting. Lots of assisted people and children all in the sun, waiting.

“Have been here since 13.20.”

The situation is confined to the North Terminal and not across the whole facility.

Passengers are keenly awaiting further developments.

There are no reports of delays on departures as it stands.

With the incident impacting the baggage area, there appears to be delays getting out of the airport, which may result in delays as the day progresses.

A Birmingham Airport spokesperson said: "We are aware of an incident affecting baggage reclaim and immigration in the North Terminal.

"We are working with emergency partners and as a precaution, passengers have been evacuated from this area only.

"The safety of our people and passengers is our number one priority and further updates will be provided."