East Midlands Airport unveils multi-million pound investment plans

East Midlands Airport has today unveiled plans for a £12 million terminal upgrade project to enhance the customer experience for the 4.3 million passengers travelling through the airport each year. The investment will make the passenger journey and experience, as simple, intuitive and efficient as possible, through a major refurbishment of the security search area; a reconfigured terminal layout, with further planned investment in 2013 to enhance the airports shopping experience and introduce new leading high street brands.

Tim McDermott, General Manager, East Midlands Airport said: “Over the years the airport has developed the terminal building with a number of significant projects; including an extension to the arrivals area, construction of a bus interchange and an environmentally friendly pier, housing additional aircraft gates, however this is the first time in 17 years that East Midlands Airport has made this level of investment in the terminal building.

“It is incredibly important that the airport continues to develop its facilities and services to meet both current and future market demands, improve the journey for its passengers and also adapt as the industry continues to evolve.”

The multi-million pound investment in the airport follows a series of airline developments over the summer season, after the airport successfully secured agreements with new based operators Monarch and Flybe, who through a codeshare with Air France will provide access to worldwide destinations via Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Major expansion plans were also revealed by existing carriers Ryanair and Jet2.com this summer.

Tim McDermott continued: “East Midlands Airport plays an important role both regionally and nationally. The airport is the principle gateway to the region, connecting over 4.3 million passengers with Europe and beyond. To continue to meet the growing needs of our passengers and the industry, we know we must continually invest in our facilities to encourage growth.”

In keeping with the airport’s strong environmental record, the refurbishment also incorporates new environmental features; including replacing existing lighting and chillers and using natural daylight and ventilation, leading to an approximate saving of 315 tonnes of carbon emissions and a 15% reduction in energy usage. In addition, the exterior of the building will incorporate a strong design which reflects the local area.

Preparation works will begin in the next few weeks and the project is expected to be completed towards the end of 2013. During this time, the terminal building will remain operational and to ensure that disruption to passengers is kept to a minimal, the project will be completed in phases.