FW Desk News
FreightWatch.News
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
East Midlands Airport has launched a new twice-weekly freighter service to China, bolstering its position as a major UK cargo hub. Central China Longhao Airlines began operations this week, with the inaugural flight arriving November 2 using a Boeing 747-400 freighter. The route connects East Midlands with Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Henan Province.
Commercial director Adam Andrews said the addition underscores the airport's appeal to Chinese operators seeking UK gateway capacity. East Midlands has expanded cargo infrastructure significantly. In July, the airport reconfigured aprons to accommodate 12 wide-bodied aircraft stands, up from seven previously. Cargo volumes grew 5 percent year-over-year through September.
The airport is targeting a 54 percent capacity increase over the next 20 years, with 50 hectares of land reserved for cargo development near the runway.
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