Insider Media Limited

East Midlands Airport is aiming to inject the “romance” back into aviation over the next year, managing director Brad Miller has told Insider. Following a “challenging” 12 months, during which the airport battled the Icelandic ash cloud, a bomb scare and extreme December weather conditions, Miller said the airport is “looking ahead” to a year in which he aims to increase passenger numbers by up to 2 per cent.

Miller, who took up the post of managing director in October last year, said that the airport had invested more than £1m in new equipment after the extreme weather conditions experienced at the end of last year.

He said: “No-one can guarantee against the weather, of course, but we can be as prepared as possible. The new equipment has all been tested, and we’re definitely prepared if the weather conditions worsen – we can’t get complacent.

“We worked really hard to stay open when a lot of other airports were forced to close in December – it cost £250,000 to remain open for the four worst days.”

Miller said that the flailing economy and the government’s subsequent comprehensive spending review (CSR) had aversely affected trade, but said that he hopes to increase passenger numbers by 1.5 – 2 per cent over the next year.

“I want to introduce some of the romance back into aviation,” he said. “Especially now, where people are looking to cut costs and save money where they can, I think making people feel special has never been more important. Many people have their home, car, and then a holiday is next on the list. So now more than ever, we have to make sure the experience is worthwhile.”

Miller said the airport was planning to increase the number of flights and destinations it offers passengers throughout the busy summer period.

“Jet2 will increase the number of flights it offers and will begin flying to Ibizia in the summer,” he said.

He added that although the recent closures of travel companies has concerned the airport, it was “working with airline partners” to make sure it was covered in any eventuality.

“Of course, it’s a worry – but we all work closely together to make sure that there will be the least disruption possible, should anything like that happen,” said Miller.