UK’s leading express freight hub prepares for additional cargo services following sustained growth in freight demand
East Midlands Airport (EMA), the United Kingdom’s largest dedicated express freight hub, has reported a 14% year-on-year increase in cargo volumes, reinforcing its position as one of Europe’s fastest-growing air cargo gateways. The airport also expects to announce the arrival of additional cargo aircraft in the coming weeks as airlines continue to expand their operations at the Midlands hub.
During June 2026, the airport handled 37,458 tonnes of freight, an increase of approximately 4,500 tonnes compared with the same month last year. The latest figures continue a strong growth trajectory for the airport, which has benefited from rising international freight demand, larger freighter aircraft and continued investment in cargo infrastructure.
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According to Steve Griffiths, Managing Director of East Midlands Airport, the strong performance reflects the airport’s growing reputation among global cargo operators.
“Our cargo operation is doing brilliantly, with increasing numbers of carriers choosing East Midlands as their entry point to the UK as our reputation spreads as the country’s number one airport for freight,” Griffiths said.
Strategic Investments Fuel Long-Term Growth
The latest cargo growth follows the airport’s ambitious expansion strategy unveiled in 2025, which aims to accommodate an estimated 54% increase in cargo demand over the next two decades. As part of the programme, East Midlands Airport has earmarked 50 hectares of land across four sites adjacent to the runway for future cargo and logistics developments, creating additional capacity for airlines, freight forwarders and logistics providers.
The airport has also significantly upgraded its airside infrastructure. A reconfiguration of its cargo apron increased the number of stands capable of accommodating wide-body freighter aircraft from seven to twelve, enabling the airport to handle more long-haul cargo services and larger aircraft simultaneously.
Bigger Aircraft, Higher Throughput
A notable feature of East Midlands Airport’s recent growth has been its ability to increase freight volumes while reducing aircraft movements. The airport has attracted larger, higher-capacity freighter aircraft operating longer intercontinental routes, allowing it to move more cargo with fewer flights.
Earlier this year, the airport reported handling 413,664 tonnes of cargo during the 2025/26 financial year, the first time since the pandemic that annual freight volumes exceeded 400,000 tonnes. Despite a reduction in freight aircraft movements, cargo throughput increased significantly, highlighting improved operational efficiency and the growing use of larger aircraft.
East Midlands has also experienced strong growth in cargo flows from India, the Middle East and Asia, supported by expanding e-commerce demand and changes in global trade patterns. The airport remains a major hub for global express operators, including DHL, UPS and FedEx, while continuing to attract new international cargo carriers.
Strengthening the UK’s Cargo Gateway
With further cargo flight announcements expected and continued investment in infrastructure, East Midlands Airport is well positioned to capitalise on increasing demand for dedicated air freight services. Its strategic location in the heart of the UK, combined with 24-hour operations and expanding logistics facilities, continues to make it an attractive gateway for airlines seeking efficient access to Britain’s manufacturing, retail and e-commerce markets.
As global supply chains continue to evolve, East Midlands Airport’s sustained investment in cargo infrastructure and operational capability reinforces its growing role as a key logistics hub connecting the UK with major international trade lanes.
