Cargo record for East Midlands Airport
East Midlands Airport said it handled its highest amount of cargo in its history last year. A total of 306,977 tonnes of flown cargo was handled in 2010 - up by 19,203 tonnes on 2009.
The airport said growth has continued into 2011 with 23,116 tonnes of flown cargo handled in February this year helping it to a market share of about 40 per cent in the carried freight sector.
The airport, which is 45-years-old, is the main UK hub for express carriers DHL and UPS and is a depot for TNT between its Belfast and European hub in Liege.
It is also said to be busiest UK airport for flown mail on aircraft, handling more than 2 million first class items a night.
Bill Blanchard, East Midlands Airport Cargo manager, said: "East Midlands Airport is a key part of the glue that links together global industry.
"As the UK comes out of recession, the air freight sector will play an increasingly important role in supporting UK businesses engaged in high value sectors of the economy. Already almost 40 per cent of UK trade with non-EU countries by value is transported by air and East Midlands Airport's prime location, its expertise and enviable reputation will continue to give it a competitive advantage."
