Big changes are taking shape at East Midlands Airport (EMA) as it marks its 60th anniversary, with a transformation of security areas among the improvements customers are already experiencing.
EMA has taken the opportunity to completely refurbish its security hall while introducing next-generation scanning equipment. Work began last year to extend the hall, accommodating the new scanners and providing extra space for waiting customers. The first of eight security lanes in the hall is now operational.
The revamped space features a fresher, brighter look, with ‘halo’ ceiling lighting and wooden panelling. A ninth lane, located alongside the entrance to the security hall, has also been completed.
Once fully operational, the new equipment – which uses 3D technology to allow security officers to view and manoeuvre items within bags – will further speed up the process. Passengers will no longer need to remove electrical items or their 100ml liquids from their cabin baggage.
The security improvements are part of a government-led roll-out across all UK airports. EMA customers are advised to expect existing security arrangements while work continues to complete the transformation in time for summer.
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The airport’s Rapid Drop-Off area has also undergone a redesign to improve traffic flow, with wider pavements and clearer crossing areas for pedestrians. Another enhancement is the refurbishment of the airport’s Meet and Greet office, which now mirrors the improvements in the security hall, creating a more pleasant space for customers and staff.
Upgrades to more of the airport’s toilet facilities have been completed, with two refurbished in the departure lounge and new Changing Places facilities in the baggage reclaim hall for passengers with disabilities. Passengers with mobility difficulties are also benefiting from two new fully-electric ‘ambulift’ vehicles to transport them on and off aircraft.
These improvements are part of a £120 million, five-year investment programme. Last year, this programme saw the refurbishment of the Castle Rock Bar and Kitchen, the opening of a new bar, modernised toilets and baby-changing facilities, a larger JD Sports outlet, new departure lounge seating, new baggage trolleys, new revolving doors in the check-in hall, anti-backtrack doors in arrivals, a new airside multi-faith room, and upgrades to Air Traffic Control and airfield equipment.
This year, upgrades to the runway, taxiway, and ‘aprons’ – where aircraft park – have taken place during scheduled runway closures. These include resurfacing and replacing lights with energy-efficient LED lighting.
Steve Griffiths, EMA’s Managing Director, said:
“It’s fantastic that so much is underway to bring significant improvements for our customers in our diamond anniversary year.
“Building on some great improvements that came into effect last year, our investments this year will make big changes to help us meet the expectations of today’s travellers and continue to provide them with the top-quality service and effortless experience they deserve.”
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