East Midlands Airport Anticipates Over One Million Summer Passengers in 2026

East Midlands Airport is preparing for a busy summer in 2026, with forecasts indicating that more than one million travellers will pass through its terminals during the school holiday period. The airport expects 1.1 million passengers to use its facilities between 7 July and 7 September, representing approximately 25% of its total annual passenger volume.

Recent official data revealed that East Midlands Airport recorded the fourth lowest number of flight delays among all UK airports last year, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable choice for holidaymakers seeking a smooth travel experience. The airport anticipates Thursday 23 July to be one of the busiest days of the summer, with nearly 20,500 passengers expected to travel.

Passengers flying from East Midlands can select from 70 popular destinations across Europe and North Africa, served by low-cost carriers Jet2, TUI, and Ryanair. This summer, the airport will introduce new routes including Agadir, Costa de Almeria, Preveza, Thessaloniki, Chania, Pula, and Split with Jet2, as well as Sharm el Sheikh with TUI. Additionally, Loganair has launched a new daily service to Jersey, marking its first summer operating from East Midlands.

To enhance the passenger experience, East Midlands Airport has implemented a series of improvements for summer 2026. The security hall has been redesigned to include next-generation scanners that allow liquids and electronic devices to remain in bags, speeding up the screening process. The terminal now features new and refurbished bars, restaurants, and the Escape Lounge, alongside a brand-new WH Smiths store offering a wide range of products such as health and beauty items, food, and audio technology.

Other upgrades include the introduction of self-service Meet & Greet kiosks for convenient key drop-off and vehicle collection, a new Little Flyers play zone for children, and a quiet room complemented by a sensory pod designed for passengers seeking respite from the busy departure lounge. The airport has also added extra seating, upgraded toilets, and installed additional water fountains. Cashless payment systems have been introduced to facilitate faster and easier drop-off procedures.

Steve Griffiths, Managing Director of East Midlands Airport, commented: “It’s shaping up to be another great summer getaway from East Midlands this year, with new destinations and an even better airport experience than ever. With 99.7% of customers clearing security in under 15 minutes and significant improvements to terminal facilities, we’re in a strong position to give people the relaxing, effortless start to their holidays they expect when they fly with us.”