East Midlands Airport is driving expansion in the Midlands’ international trade through its growing cargo operations. More than half of regional exporters increased sales in the second quarter of this financial year, with East Midlands-based companies ranking second nationally for entering new markets. Recent trade data shows strong growth in sales to the US and rising demand for exports to China.
The airport handled over 100,000 tonnes of cargo between May and July, up 17.4% on the same period last year. This growth exceeded Heathrow, where cargo volumes carried in passenger aircraft have remained largely flat. East Midlands specialises in cargo-only flights, operating predominantly overnight, which reduces delays caused by passenger schedules. Its central location adjacent to the M1 provides access to 90% of the UK population within four hours, enhancing efficiency for freight carriers.
Major logistics firms, including DHL, UPS, and FedEx, have established UK operations at East Midlands, while four new cargo airlines have launched services since May. Several of these airlines operate routes to China, reflecting the growing demand from exporters targeting the Asian market.
To support rising cargo volumes, the airport has reconfigured aprons to accommodate additional wide-bodied aircraft. Long-term plans include four runway-side plots for redevelopment, offering 122,000m² of warehouse space, new taxiways, and stands for up to 18 aircraft. Forecasts anticipate a 54% increase in express freight over the next two decades, potentially creating more than 20,000 jobs and contributing nearly £4 billion to the economy.
Two sites hold Freeport tax status, and a third is designated for a logistics and advanced manufacturing park led by Prologis, expected to unlock £1bn in investment. These developments position East Midlands Airport as a strategic hub supporting regional exports, advanced manufacturing, and broader economic growth.
