Birmingham Airport serves a key role as a major contributor to economic activity and regeneration in the West Midlands and wider Midlands region. The Airport provides access to travel for a catchment area of around 36 million people living within 2 hours travel time. For business, commerce and industry, the Airport provides access to new and wider markets. Economic development and regeneration is encouraged by facilitating inward investment. Inbound tourism is supported by providing access to UK destinations and attractions. For the local population, access to Europe and worldwide destinations is provided for social and leisure purposes.