East Midlands Airport Expansion Plans to Create Over 20,000 New Jobs

Strategic Insights -

East Midlands Airport has announced ambitious expansion plans that could create more than 20,000 new jobs in the coming years. The airport's cargo operation is set to play a key role in this growth, with plans for 122,000m2 of warehouse space, new taxiways, and stands for up to 18 more aircraft. The expansion is expected to support a 54% growth in express freight cargo volumes over the next 20 years, with a PS4 billion uplift for the economy.

Key Takeaways:

  • East Midlands Airport's cargo operation handled over 103,000 tonnes of cargo between May and July, a 17.4% increase on the same period in 2024.
  • Four new operators have joined the airport, running routes to China, contributing to the surge in cargo volumes.
  • The airport's strategic location, level of runway capacity, and comparatively cheap landing fees make it a competitive edge against other UK airports.
  • Expansion plans involve 122,000m2 of warehouse space, new taxiways, and stands for up to 18 more aircraft.
  • The growth in express freight cargo volumes could support over 20,000 new jobs in the coming years.
  • British freight operator One Air switched its UK base for China-UK flights from Heathrow to East Midlands a year ago, citing the airport's ease of operation and competitive edge.
  • East Midlands Airport handled PS37 billion worth of freight overall last year.
  • The airport's head of aviation, David Craig, stated that East Midlands is the best choice for cargo operators due to its strategic location, ease of operation, and recent expansion plans.

Statistics:

  • 103,000 tonnes of cargo handled between May and July, a 17.4% increase on the same period in 2024.
  • 24% year-on-year growth in cargo volumes in June.
  • 185 of the world's biggest cities connected via East Midlands Airport's cargo operation.
  • 122,000m2 of warehouse space planned as part of expansion.
  • 54% growth in express freight cargo volumes expected over the next 20 years.
  • PS4 billion uplift for the economy predicted over the next 20 years.
  • PS37 billion worth of freight handled overall last year.

Sources:

  • Derby Telegraph: "East Midlands Airport expansion plans 'could create 20,000 jobs'"
  • East Midlands Airport Press Release: "East Midlands Airport Expansion Plans Will Drive Growth and Job Creation"
  • East Midlands Airport Website: "Cargo Operation Expansion Plans"
  • British freight operator One Air: Statement citing reasons for switching UK base to East Midlands Airport