East Midlands Airport has seen an unprecedented period of growth since it launched its cargo development plans in May – with latest figures showing an 11.4% increase since last year.
Cargo volumes between May and October this year reached almost 240,000 tonnes which is close to 25,000 tonnes more than during the same six-month period last year. The figures are released as the Department for Business and Trade’s International Trade Week draws to a close, spotlighting the importance of exports to the UK economy – which East Midlands Airport plays a pivotal role in.
And the airport is only just entering what is traditionally the busiest time of year for its cargo operations, with a 63% short-term increase in cargo flight movements expected in the coming weeks, driven by Black Friday, Cyber Monday and pre-Christmas demand.
The cargo growth plans launched by East Midlands Airport in May are designed to meet an estimated 54% increase in demand for its unrivalled cargo operations over the next two decades. This would see volumes increase from 400,000 tonnes currently to 583,000 tonnes in 2043.
Four plots close to the runway totalling 50 hectares have been earmarked for cargo development which could support more than 21,000 jobs and boost the economy by almost £4bn.
Since the plans were announced, the airport has welcomed six new cargo airlines, helping to drive the increase in freight volumes. These are Central Airlines, Atlas Air, Ethiopian Cargo, Saudia Cargo, Etihad Cargo and SF Express – with a seventh now on the horizon. Other improvements include:
· Ground handling firm Swissport and logistics giant FedEx have both moved into larger premises at the airport to meet rising demand
· More stands have been created to accommodate extra cargo aircraft
· Cargo airline One Air has launched charter services and grown its fleet since moving operations from Heathrow to East Midlands Airport – with a fifth aircraft expected to arrive in the coming weeks.
The airport’s new commercial director Adam Andrews, appointed in September, said: “This isn’t just growth — it’s transformation. This incredible momentum highlights the airport’s growing global reputation and strategic importance in international logistics. Every new airline means more trade, more jobs, and more opportunity for the Midlands and beyond.
“These positive moves support our ambitious plans for the largest dedicated air cargo development scheme in the UK. We will continue to promote our strategic location, 24/7 operation and expertise in dedicated freighter operations to help drive seamless international trade and increase our contribution to the regional and national economy.”
