The Abu Dhabi carrier's new service reflects East Midlands Airport's growing appeal as a cargo hub, with volumes rising 17.4% year on year between May and July
Etihad Cargo has become the latest airline to add flights to the UK’s East Midlands Airport (EMA) as it looks to capitalise on the airport’s fast turnaround times.
The Abu Dhabi hubbed airline launched its first flight today using one of its Boeing 777 freighter aircraft. In total, Etihad will fly to the Midlands airport twice per week.
Etihad Airways chief cargo officer Stanislas Brun said: “Introducing a new freighter service to East Midlands Airport is an important step for Etihad Cargo as we continue to expand our global footprint.
“As the UK’s major hub for airfreight and cargo operations with direct access to key distribution networks for both domestic and European deliveries, this route allows for fast turnaround times and efficient customs handling.”
Etihad is the latest cargo carrier to add flights to EMA airport in recent months.
In May, Central Airlines became the first China-based operator flying into East Midlands, on behalf of Chinese logistics firm YunExpress.
Since then, Atlas Air, Ethiopian Cargo and Saudia Cargo have all started running China-UK routes via East Midlands Airport.
Meanwhile, last year UK freighter airline One Air shifted its operations from Heathrow to East Midlands.
Since then, its fleet has grown from two to four aircraft, including a 777F, which began operating new scheduled services last month.
Another is due to arrive before the end of the year to take the total to five.
As a result of the cargo service wins, the airport saw its volumes increase 17.4% year on year between May and July.
It has reconfigured its aprons to increase the number of stands available for cargo aircraft to help handle the extra demand and FedEx and ground handling firm Swissport have both recently announced improvements to their on-site facilities to increase capacity.
EMA commercial director Adam Andrews said: "I’m pleased that Etihad Cargo has announced regular flights to East Midlands Airport – our strategic central location and ease of operation make us a great choice for quick access to all parts of the UK."
