Understanding BHX operations
Birmingham Airport runway guide
BHX's main runway is designated 15/33. The number changes with the direction of operation, and that direction has a major effect on what you see from each spotting location.
Runway 15 and Runway 33
Runway numbers are based approximately on magnetic heading. The same strip of pavement is therefore Runway 15 in one direction and Runway 33 in the opposite direction.
Birmingham Airport specifically points to Sheldon Country Park as an alternative viewing location when Runway 15 is in use, while the official Car Park 5 viewing area sits alongside the airfield and is a dependable general-purpose starting point.
Do not treat wind direction as a live runway indicator. Air traffic control decides runway use based on operational conditions. Runway use can change with wind and operational conditions.