East Midlands Airport marked its 60th anniversary with a year of strong operational performance, reinforcing its position as the UK’s leading express cargo hub while continuing to improve its passenger offering.
MAG’s newly released annual report shows its three airports – Manchester, London Stansted and East Midlands – handled a record 66 million passengers in 2025, up 1.9% year on year. East Midlands’ passenger numbers remained steady at 4 million, with based carriers Jet2 and TUI adding new routes to their European networks. The airport also progressed a £120 million investment programme to upgrade passenger and airfield facilities.
Operational performance remained a standout strength, with 99% of passengers clearing security in 15 minutes or less. East Midlands also secured the CAA’s highest “Very Good” accessibility rating for the sixth consecutive year, supported by its award winning assisted travel service.
Cargo activity delivered significant growth. MAG’s cargo volumes rose 12.5%, driven primarily by East Midlands, where throughput exceeded 400,000 tonnes for the first time since the pandemic. The airport accounted for one third of all UK air freight growth, supported by the arrival of seven new cargo airlines, including YunExpress, Etihad Cargo, Atlas Air, Saudi Cargo, SF Express, Hong Kong Air Cargo and Ethiopian Cargo.
To meet long term freight demand – forecast to rise 54% over the next two decades – East Midlands outlined plans to add 50 hectares of cargo capacity, increasing annual volumes to more than 580,000 tonnes and supporting up to £3.4 billion in additional economic contribution to the region.
The airport also advanced its environmental and community programmes. All operational vehicles transitioned to 100% biodiesel, while education, training and outreach initiatives included the airport’s first Aviation Careers Festival, staff volunteering, community funding and a series of events marking its 60th anniversary.
Managing director Steve Griffiths said the year highlighted the airport’s dual role in supporting UK trade and regional connectivity, adding: “The investment in our growing cargo operations bolsters East Midlands Airport’s position as a central driver of UK international trade, while our passenger operation provides travellers from across our region with a range of popular European destinations all year round.”
