‘Unprecedented’ growth in East Midlands cargo operations

East Midlands Airport has seen an exceptional surge in growth since launching its cargo development plans in May, with the latest data confirming an 11.4% year-on-year increase.

Crucially, the airport is only now entering its peak season: cargo flight movements are expected to rise by 63% in the short term, fuelled by Black Friday, Cyber Monday and pre-Christmas shopping.

With the airport aiming to deliver the largest dedicated air cargo development scheme in the country, their long-term strategy focuses on leveraging East Midlands Airport’s strategic location, 24/7 operations and established expertise in freighter activity to support seamless international trade and enhance both regional and national economic impact.

The development plans, launched in May, are designed to meet an anticipated 54% rise in cargo demand over the next 20 years, taking volumes from 400,000 tonnes to 583,000 tonnes by 2043 – creating approximately 21,000 jobs and injecting nearly £4 billion (€4.5 billion) into the economy.

Find out more in East Midlands’ press release here.