YunExpress Launches UK Operations with New Cargo Facility at East Midlands Airport

YunExpress, a leading global cross-border logistics provider, has received approval to commence operations at its newly established cargo handling facility at East Midlands Airport. This development not only enhances the airport’s cargo growth strategy but also positions it as the UK’s premier express air freight hub. Notably, YunExpress is the first China-based cargo handling company to operate at a UK airport, enabling it to offer comprehensive plane-to-door cargo services essential for the burgeoning cross-border e-commerce sector.

The company is set to handle its inaugural flight on April 30, following its designation as a Regulated Agent by the Civil Aviation Authority and the granting of ITSF (Internal Temporary Storage Facility) approval from Border Force. YunExpress has been operating its own Boeing 777F freighter flights into East Midlands Airport from China since May of last year, in collaboration with Central Airlines. Initially, the facility will manage cargo for Central Airlines, which operates four flights weekly, each transporting 100 tonnes of goods. Plans are in place to extend services to additional carriers, with the capacity to accommodate more flights in the future.

The newly constructed facility spans 7,000 square metres within an existing warehouse at the airport and is expected to create approximately 40 jobs. Adam Andrew, Commercial Director at East Midlands Airport, expressed enthusiasm about YunExpress joining as a cargo handler, stating, “We’re thrilled to have YunExpress on board as a cargo handler, following on from the flights they launched just under a year ago. This investment by YunExpress is further evidence of the importance of East Midlands Airport as the UK’s largest dedicated freighter airport, with YunExpress and their future clients able to take advantage of 24/7 unrestricted airport operations and access to 80% of the UK population within four hours.”

Andrew further noted that this investment is a significant boost for the airport’s cargo growth ambitions, which may lead to the development of four large plots on the airfield for new cargo facilities. He anticipates that YunExpress will expand its operations to accommodate the increasing number of cargo operators selecting East Midlands Airport as their UK hub.

Orson Wang, General Manager of YunExpress UK, remarked, “The launch of our East Midlands Airport operation marks a significant milestone in YunExpress’s UK and wider European growth strategy. Following a thorough evaluation of potential locations, East Midlands Airport stood out for its central location, strong cargo infrastructure and efficient access to the wider UK market. With the necessary approvals now in place, we are pleased to begin operations and to further strengthen YunExpress’s global service network, which supports cross-border e-commerce flows across major international markets.”

Wang added that the company is exploring partnerships with airlines beyond Central Airlines and is particularly well-positioned to assist Chinese operators due to their understanding of specific needs. He affirmed their commitment to long-term investment in the region, aiming to evolve into a fully integrated, end-to-end logistics operation under the YunExpress brand.