Expanding Horizons: How Additional Aircraft Stands Propel East Midlands Airport's Development Strategy

According to a recent report from East Midlands Airport, the facility is reimagining its aircraft stand configurations to boost capacity for both cargo and passenger operations as part of its growth strategy.

This initiative aligns with the airport’s newly announced plans aimed at enhancing sections of the airfield to accommodate anticipated increases in cargo activities over the next few years.Additionally, airport officials are keen on expanding passenger services, highlighted by last month’s announcement of sunexpress launching flights to Turkey next summer.

The airport features three designated areas known as ‘aprons’: two aprons on either side for cargo and a central apron serving all passenger flights. During peak summer months, all 23 stands for passenger planes are occupied, while an increasing number of cargo airlines are also selecting East Midlands for their operations. Consequently, teams have been challenged to find innovative ways to expand capacity within these existing apron spaces.

This endeavor posed significant technical hurdles that necessitated intricate redesigns and procedural updates while prioritizing safety.Collaboration was key; staff from various departments including airfield operations, aviation safety, air traffic control, capital delivery, and control room worked together seamlessly.

The outcome is evident in new markings recently applied on both east and west aprons that have effectively doubled the capacity for wide-bodied cargo aircraft up to seven. Future work will focus on enhancing the central apron by adding four more stands dedicated to passenger aircraft. This will involve a thorough assessment of current capacities along with strategies aimed at optimizing resources and creating additional space for future growth in passengers. Planned upgrades include complete re-marking of aprons, installation of new centerline lighting systems, and expansion of parking zones for ground service equipment.

Lauren turner, Head of Airfield Operations remarked: “Operating an airfield comes with stringent regulations ensuring safety; thus any layout modifications present considerable challenges requiring diverse expertise across our teams here at East Midlands Airport.”

“We uniquely operate as two airports—one focused on customer-friendly passenger services during daylight hours while being recognized as the UK’s leading cargo hub after dark,” she added. “Our teams have risen admirably to this challenge by devising solutions that allow increased operations from both sectors at East Midlands Airport. The synergy between our business segments is vital for long-term success; so it’s essential we continue investing in both areas.”