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East Midlands Airport (EMA) Guide

East Midlands Airport

East Midlands Airport Overview

East Midlands Airport (IATA: EMA, ICAO: EGNX) is an international airport situated in northwestern Leicestershire, in close proximity to Castle Donington. It strategically lies between Loughborough (10 miles, 16 km), Derby (12.5 miles, 20 km), and Nottingham (14 miles, 22.5 km). Additionally, it serves the wider East Midlands region, encompassing Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Rutland, and Derbyshire.

EMA Airport has emerged as a key hub for low-fare carriers such as Jet2.com and Ryanair, as well as tour operators like TUI Airways. These airlines offer a wide range of domestic and European short-haul flights. While the airport witnessed its peak in passenger numbers in 2008 at 5.6 million, there has been a decline to approximately 4.5 million passengers in 2015. This positions it as the UK’s 11th busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic. Furthermore, it serves as a pivotal air cargo hub, ranking as the UK’s second busiest for freight traffic in 2016, trailing only London Heathrow.

East Midlands Airport is under the ownership of the Manchester Airports Group (MAG), the largest British-owned airport operator. This entity is overseen by the ten metropolitan borough councils of Greater Manchester, with Manchester City Council retaining the controlling stake.

Terminal

EMA Airport has a single passenger terminal divided into different levels:

  • Ground Floor: This level houses both Departures and Arrivals, with key features like check-in counters and baggage claim.
  • Mezzanine: On this level, you’ll find restaurants, restrooms, and relaxation areas.

The terminal has 23 boarding gates, with gates 18 to 23 in a separate concourse to the left. Services include dining options, shops, free Wi-Fi, ATMs, banking, currency exchange, and Fast Track services.

East Midlands Airport Arrivals and Departures

Located in the heart of the picturesque East Midlands region of England, it serves as a vital gateway for East Midlands arrivals and departures from this vibrant part of the United Kingdom. This bustling aviation hub plays a pivotal role in connecting passengers to a myriad of destinations, whether they are embarking on exciting adventures or returning home from journeys afar.

With its strategic location, EMA serves as a dynamic hub for both domestic and international flights, catering to the diverse needs of passengers from all walks of life. From its efficient EMA departures and arrivals procedures to its well-organized departure facilities, it endeavours to provide a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

East Midlands Arrivals Online Flight Board

The online board on flight arrivals East Midlands is a real-time gateway to the latest updates on arriving flights at this dynamic aviation hub. Whether you’re eagerly awaiting the arrival of someone or keeping tabs on your own journey, this digital display provides a comprehensive snapshot of all incoming flights.

Here’s what you’ll find on our arrivals board:

  • Time: The precise time at which each flight is scheduled to touch down at EMA. This board will keep you informed with up-to-the-minute accuracy on East Midlands arrivals today, ensuring you’re ready for your arrival experience.
  • Date: The date of the arrivals, so you can plan your airport visit accordingly. Whether you’re tracking arrivals for today or tomorrow this information keeps you informed.
  • IATA: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) code for each airline. This quick reference code helps you identify the airline at a glance.
  • Origin: The airport or city from which the flight originates. Discover where each flight has embarked on its journey to EMA Airport, adding context to your travel experience.
  • Flight: The flight number, making it easy to identify your specific flight or the one you’re interested in tracking. You can quickly locate your flight among the East Midlands flight arrivals.
  • Airline: The name of the airline operating the flight. From well-known carriers to regional specialists, our arrivals board highlights the airline responsible for each arrival.
  • Status: The status of each flight, providing real-time updates on whether a flight is on time, delayed, or has landed. This crucial information ensures you’re well informed about any changes to your travel plans.

Please note that flight statuses are updated regularly, so you can rely on this board for the most current information regarding arrivals at East Midlands Airport.

East Midlands Airport Arrivals Tips

East Midlands airport live arrivals

Here are some useful tips for EMA arrivals to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience:

  • Prepare Your Documents: Make sure you have all your travel documents ready, including your passport, visa (if required), and any custom declaration forms. Keep these documents easily accessible in your carry-on bag to expedite the immigration process.
  • Be Aware of Baggage Claim: After disembarking the aircraft, follow the signs to the baggage claim area at the arrivals at East Midlands Airport. Keep an eye out for your flight number on the display screens to locate the correct baggage carousel. Be patient, and your luggage will arrive shortly.
  • Clearing Customs: If you’re arriving from an international destination, you’ll need to clear customs. Make sure you are aware of the customs regulations for the UK and have any necessary items or declarations ready for inspection.
  • Transportation Options: Familiarize yourself with the transportation options available from the airport to your final destination. EMA offers taxis, rental cars, buses, and private shuttles. Pre-booking transportation can save you time and ensure a smooth transition.
  • Currency Exchange: If you need local currency, consider using the airport’s currency exchange services or ATMs. Having some cash on hand can be convenient for transportation, snacks, or small purchases upon arrival.
  • Stay Informed: Stay updated on your flight’s status before leaving for the airport, especially if you’re picking up someone. Flight schedules can change, so check with the EMA arrivals today on the flight board for real-time updates.
  • Plan for Possible East Midlands Airport delays: While the airport generally operates efficiently, factors like weather or air traffic can cause delays. Consider having a backup plan if you have time-sensitive appointments or connections after your arrival.
  • Keep Essentials in Your Carry-On: Pack essential items such as medications, travel adapters, a change of clothes, and important documents in your carry-on bag. This ensures that you have immediate access to these items in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost.

By following these arrivals East Midlands tips, you’ll be well-prepared, making your arrival in the East Midlands region a stress-free and enjoyable one.

East Midlands Departures Online Flight Board

The flight departures East Midlands online board provides a digital gateway to real-time updates on outbound flights.

On this departures board, the following key details are readily available:

  • Time: Precise time for East Midlands Airport departures today is provided, ensuring passengers are well-prepared and punctual for their flights.
  • Date: The departure date is prominently displayed, enabling travellers to plan their airport visits accordingly.
  • IATA: The IATA code for each airline is included, facilitating quick identification.
  • Destination: The final destination of each flight is indicated, offering insight into the diverse array of locations served by departing flights.
  • Flight: Flight numbers are provided for easy reference for East Midlands departures today, simplifying the process of locating specific departures.
  • Airline: The name of the operating airline is clearly stated, allowing passengers to identify their chosen carrier easily.
  • Status: Real-time flight status updates keep travellers informed about whether their flights are on schedule, delayed, or have already taken off.

The East Midlands flight departures online board is committed to delivering accurate and up-to-the-minute information, ensuring that passengers have the most current details at their fingertips as they embark on their journeys. This valuable resource is designed to enhance the departure experience and assist travellers in navigating the airport smoothly. Flight statuses are regularly updated, providing passengers with reliable information about departures from EMA Airport.

East Midlands Airport Departures Tips

Here are some helpful tips for departures from East Midlands to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience:

  • Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at the airport well in advance of your EMA departures time, especially for international flights.
  • Online Check-In: Take advantage of online check-in services offered by your airline. This can save you time and reduce queuing at the airport.
  • Luggage Limits: Check your airline’s baggage allowance and weight limits. Avoid packing prohibited items in your carry-on luggage to expedite security checks.
  • Security Screening: Be prepared for security checks. Remove items such as laptops, liquids, and jackets from your carry-on bag and place them in the provided trays.
  • Travel Documents: Ensure you have all required travel documents, including your passport, visa (if needed), boarding pass, and any necessary identification. Keep them easily accessible.
  • Transportation: Plan your transportation to the airport in advance. Make sure you’re aware of the parking options if you’re driving yourself.
  • Stay Informed: Keep an eye on flight information screens for updates on your departure gate and any potential changes. Flight statuses can change, so stay informed about your flight’s status on the departures East Midlands board.
  • Plan for Delays: While East Midlands Airport generally operates efficiently, flights can sometimes be delayed. Prepare for potential delays by having essential items in your carry-on bag, such as medications and travel essentials and don’t forget to check on East Midlands live departures status.

By following these departure tips, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience when departing from East Midlands Airport, setting the stage for a smooth journey to your chosen destination.

EMA Airport Flight Tracker

Destinations From East Midlands Airport

The table provides a comprehensive list of EMA destinations. It includes various airlines and the cities they connect to. Destinations range from European cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Prague to holiday hotspots such as Alicante, Málaga, and Tenerife–South. The table reflects a diverse range of travel options available from the airport.

Airlines East Midlands Airport Destinations
Aer Lingus Belfast–City
Aurigny Seasonal: Guernsey
BH Air Seasonal: Burgas, Sofia
Blue Islands Jersey
Eastern Airways Paris–Orly
Seasonal: Newquay
Freebird Airlines Seasonal: Antalya
Jet2.com Alicante, Antalya, Faro, Fuerteventura, Funchal, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Málaga, Tenerife–South
Seasonal: Bodrum, Burgas, Corfu, Dalaman, Dubrovnik, Geneva, Girona, Heraklion, Ibiza, Izmir, Jersey, Kefalonia, Kos, Kraków, Larnaca, Malta, Menorca, Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Paphos, Prague, Reus, Reykjavík–Keflavík, Rhodes, Salzburg, Santorini, Skiathos, Verona, Zakynthos
Ryanair Alicante, Barcelona, Belfast–International, Bergamo, Berlin, Dublin, Faro, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Knock, Kraków, Lanzarote, Łódź, Málaga, Malta, Prague, Riga, Rome–Ciampino, Rzeszów, Tenerife–South, Wrocław
Seasonal: Bergerac, Budapest, Carcassonne, Chania, Corfu, Girona, Limoges, Marseille, Menorca, Murcia, Palma de Mallorca, Pisa, Reus, Rhodes, Treviso, Valencia

East Midlands Airport Lounge — Escape Lounge

East Midlands Airport map
The Escape Lounge East Midlands Airport offers a comfortable haven for travellers, and it provides access to DragonPass and Priority Pass cardholders who can reserve their space through a dedicated booking portal. Remember to carry your DragonPass or Priority Pass card for entry, and please be punctual.

Located conveniently after the shopping area, across from Gate 17, the airport lounge East Midlands is easily accessible following security checks and the duty-free zone. Operating hours vary from 4 am to 6:30 pm most days from March 27th to April 30th. Starting from May 1st, it will be open daily from 4 am to 7 pm.

Families are welcome, with children aged 0-35 months granted free entry. If you have children aged 25-35 months, it’s advisable to inform the East Midlands Airport Escape Lounge by calling 0808 168 6111.

The Escape Lounge offers complimentary Wi-Fi, food, and beverages, making your wait more enjoyable. Entertainment options include TVs and magazines to keep you engaged.

For those who prefer to pre-book their space, prices start at £31.99 per person, with infants (0-35 months) granted free entry. Regardless of your airline or ticket class, the EMA lounge warmly welcomes all passengers.

East Midlands Airport Shops

EMA offers a delightful shopping experience for travellers of all tastes. Here’s a glimpse of shops at East Midlands Airport that you can find there:

  • Accessorize: For the fashion-savvy, Accessorize is a must-stop destination. Discover the season’s cutest accessories, including jewellery, bags, sunglasses, scarves, and gloves. It’s the perfect place to treat yourself or find a fashionable gift.
  • Beautifly: Treat yourself to a touch of luxury at Beautifly. Before your flight, indulge in a massage, manicure, or pedicure, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated for your journey.
  • JD at East Midlands: Gear up for your travels with the latest releases from JD. They stock popular brands like Nike, The North Face, Adidas, Converse, and more, offering a wide range of footwear, clothing, and accessories to suit all your needs.
  • Superdrug: Don’t fret if you’ve forgotten any last-minute essentials, medicines, or cosmetics. Superdrug has you covered and even provides a pre-order service for baby milk.
  • Traveller: For travel-inspired fashion, look no further than Traveller. Whether you’re seeking summer sarongs or winter warmers, they have the season’s must-haves to complement your journey.
  • WH Smith and WHSmith Bookshop: WHSmith is your go-to for quick snacks, toys for the kids, or the latest best-sellers to keep you entertained pre-flight or in-flight. It’s your one-stop shop for convenience.

Enjoy exploring these diverse shops in East Midlands Airport, where there’s something for everyone to discover before taking off on their journey.

Duty Free East Midlands Airport

World Duty Free stands as a shopping haven for travellers passing through East Midlands Airport. This well-established duty-free store offers an extensive array of products, including cosmetics, fragrances, fashion, accessories, alcohol, tobacco, and more.

Reserve and Collect Service: For those seeking a swift and efficient shopping experience, duty free East Midlands Airport provides a Reserve and Collect service. This allows travellers to browse and reserve their desired items online in advance, ensuring that the products are ready for pickup upon departure. It’s a convenient option for those who wish to save time and avoid the risk of overspending.

Brexit Rules and Regulations: In response to Brexit, there have been updates to duty-free allowances. Travellers can still enjoy tax-free shopping, but it’s essential to be aware of the new rules and regulations. These rules stipulate the maximum quantities of alcohol, tobacco, and other goods that can be brought into the UK without incurring additional duties or taxes.

East Midlands Airport Restaurants and Pubs

There is a diverse range of East Midlands Airport food options for travellers. Here’s a detailed look at the eateries available:

  • Burger King: Known for its classic fast-food offerings, Burger King provides a selection of burgers, fries, and more, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
  • Castle Rock: For a more relaxed atmosphere, Castle Rock offers a traditional British pub experience, complete with a choice of local or craft beers and a menu featuring hearty pub fare.
  • Flat White: Coffee enthusiasts can indulge in freshly brewed coffee and quick snacks at Flat White, ideal for a caffeine fix or a light bite.
  • Frankie and Benny’s: Combining Italian flavours with a New York twist, Frankie and Benny’s serves up a menu of Italian-American classics. It’s a great spot for a sit-down meal with friends or family.
  • Pork and Pickle: Those with a penchant for sandwiches will appreciate Pork and Pickle’s selection of well-crafted sandwiches and wraps, perfect for a satisfying snack or meal.
  • Starbucks: Starbucks, a renowned favourite, offers a wide range of coffee, tea, and delectable pastries. It’s the ideal spot for a caffeine boost or a sweet treat.

Whether you’re seeking a quick bite, a leisurely meal, or just a refreshing drink, pubs and restaurants at East Midlands Airport are designed to cater to a variety of preferences and schedules. Enjoy a meal or a beverage before your flight to enhance your overall airport experience.

East Midlands Airport Parking

East Midlands Airport parking map
Parking East Midlands Airport offers a comprehensive and convenient experience for travellers. With a variety of parking options to choose from, passengers can find the perfect solution to suit their needs.

Parking at East Midlands Airport Transfer to East Midlands Airport Transfer time Do you keep your keys?
JetParks1 Free transfer shuttle 10 min NO
JetParks 2 Free transfer shuttle 8 min NO
Long Stay 1 Free transfer shuttle 5 min NO
Long Stay 2 Free transfer shuttle 5 min NO
Mid Stay 3 Walking distance 7 min YES
Mid Stay 2 Walking distance 5 min YES
Mid Stay 1 Walking distance 5 min YES
Short Stay 3 Walking distance 7 min YES
Meet and Greet Walking distance 1 min NO
Short Stay 2 Walking distance 3 min YES
Short Stay 1 Walking distance 2 min YES
Stress Free Meet and Greet Walking distance 1 min NO
Prestige Executive Walking distance 1 min NO
JetParks Plus Free transfer shuttle 6 min YES
Prestige Parking Walking distance 2-3 min NO

On-Airport Car Parking East Midlands Airport

For the ultimate convenience, you can opt for airport parking East Midlands in the short-stay or mid-stay lots. Being just a stone’s throw away from the terminal building, you can skip the shuttle bus altogether. The short-stay parking area is a mere five-minute walk to the check-in counters, while the mid-stay option is a still-convenient 5-7 minutes on foot to the terminal. While this convenience may come at a slightly higher cost, booking in advance online often opens up fantastic deals, making it a wise choice.

Meet and Greet Parking

Discover the utmost convenience with East Midlands Airport Meet and Greet. This option places you closest to the terminal, providing the shortest possible walk to the check-in area, which is just one minute away. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

  • Drive directly to a designated bay located just outside the terminal building.
  • Entrust your vehicle to one of our experienced Meet & Greet drivers. They will take charge of parking your car securely.
  • Enjoy the ease of being just a one-minute walk away from the check-in counters, as Meet & Greet is situated right outside the terminal.

Accessing Meet & Greet is straightforward – follow the A453 from the M1 & A42, and you’ll find clear signage directing you to the Meet & Greet area upon approaching the entrance. This East Midlands Airport car parking service ensures your journey begins with the utmost convenience and efficiency.

Long Stay 2 East Midlands Airport

East Midlands Airport presents Long Stay parking tailored to passengers planning extended stays of 1-2 weeks or more. Equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) for seamless entry and exit, visitors can simply arrive, retain their keys, and proceed to the nearest bus stop for a complimentary shuttle to the terminal. The car parking at East Midlands Airport offers the ideal solution for longer trips.

Prices for long stay parking at East Midlands Airport start at just £52.99 for an 8-day stay.

The East Midlands Airport long stay parking is conveniently located off the A453. Once you enter the airport’s road network, clear signage will guide you directly to the Long Stay car park, ensuring easy access and a stress-free parking experience.

Short Stay Parking East Midlands Airport

East Midlands parking airport
For passengers in search of swift access to the check-in area, East Midlands Airport short stay parking, conveniently located adjacent to the terminal, offer the perfect solution. The process is straightforward: upon arrival, visitors can retain their keys, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

These East Midlands Airport parking short stay options are easily accessible from the M1 or A42 via the A453, with clear signposting to guide incoming vehicles once they pass the airport entrance. The terminal is just a short walk away, taking just a few minutes.

To secure the most competitive short stay rates at the EMA parking, we recommend advance booking. Prices for an 8-day stay start at just £79.99. Passengers are encouraged to book in advance to guarantee their parking space and enjoy a seamless parking experience.

Off Site Parking East Midlands Airport

For the best value car park East Midlands Airport option, JetParks comes highly recommended. JetParks offers two convenient car parks, JetParks 1 and JetParks 2. From these locations, you can catch a free shuttle bus to the airport, with a journey time of 12-15 minutes. Transfers run regularly, every 15 minutes, ensuring a hassle-free and budget-friendly parking experience.

East Midlands Airport Drop Off

At East Midlands Airport, you have several convenient options for dropping off or picking up passengers:

  • Short Stay Car Parks: These East Midlands Airport parking drop off options are close to the terminal, making it easy to check in. You can use these for both drop-offs and pick-ups.
  • Long Stay Car Park: This offers a free alternative and is a short distance from the terminal.
  • Rapid Drop-Off: Positioned in front of the terminal, it’s perfect for quick drop-offs. The first 15 minutes cost £5.00, and after that, it’s £1 for each additional minute.
  • Pre-Booked Short Stay 1: For added convenience, you can pre-book parking in Short Stay 1 for 1, 2, or 3 hours. It’s located next to the terminal for easy access.

East Midlands Airport Pick Up

Dropping Off or Picking Up: East Midlands Airport offers different choices for those wishing to drop off or pick up passengers. Options include the Short Stay car parks, as well as the cost-effective Long Stay car park, which is free of charge. Both the Short Stay and Long Stay areas are suitable for both drop-offs and pick-ups. Additionally, there’s a Rapid Drop-Off service designed for swift and hassle-free drop-offs, conveniently located in front of the terminal building.

Pre-Book Your Pick-Up or Drop-Off Parking: Travellers looking for added convenience can pre-book a parking space in the Short Stay 1 car park. This service is available for durations of 1, 2, or 3 hours. Short Stay 1 is conveniently situated right next to the terminal, allowing for a quick and straightforward walk to the check-in area. This option is particularly well-suited for efficiently managing drop-offs or pick-ups.

By selecting pre-booked East Midlands Airport arrivals pick up or drop-off parking, travellers can secure their parking spot in advance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free airport experience. This proactive approach streamlines the process, making it easier to manage arrivals and departures at East Midlands Airport.

Directions to East Midlands Airport

bus to East Midlands airport
For travellers seeking hassle-free transportation to and from EMA Airport, a comprehensive set of options is available, whether it’s by train, car, or coach. Each section within our guides provides detailed East Midlands airport directions and further assistance in reaching your final destination after departing from the facility.

East Midlands Airport’s advantageous location places it between several key towns and cities, including Nottingham, Leicester, and Birmingham, offering efficient travel links to and from each of these vibrant destinations.

Taxi to East Midlands Airport

Taxis are a highly convenient transportation choice for travelling to and from East Midlands Airport. They provide swift access to various destinations: Leicester in just 30 minutes, Nottingham in 25 minutes, Derby in 20 minutes, and Loughborough in a mere 20 minutes.

Official East Midlands Airport taxi is readily available at the exit of the terminal building. Specifically, Arrow Cars has its office facing the Arrivals area.

You can book a taxi in advance or directly at the airport.

The primary taxi at East Midlands Airport is Arrow Cars, and you can reach them at +01159565757. Moreover, other taxi companies can pick up and drop off passengers, provided that the taxi has been pre-booked.

A shared ride service is available for those interested in sharing a taxi and splitting a fixed-rate fee to select destinations. This option is particularly useful when multiple parties are travelling to the same location. You can utilize rideshare apps like Uber for this purpose.

If you prefer private transportation from the airport, you can arrange your transfer independently.

East Midlands Airport Train

The airport lacks a direct passenger train to East Midlands Airport and tram access. The nearest railway station is East Midlands Parkway, located four miles away, serving destinations like Leicester, Derby, Sheffield, Lincoln, Nottingham, and London St Pancras. An hourly minibus shuttle service was reinstated in 2015 by Elite Cars, and taxi services are also available.

There are plans for a dedicated airport railway station with completion expected by 2040. It will provide direct trains to East Midlands Airport and nearby cities, East Midlands Parkway, and the proposed East Midlands Hub at Toton. Additionally, a Nottingham Express Transit line to the airport is planned to be operational by 2045.

Bus to East Midlands Airport

East Midlands Airport offers 24/7 transport services, including Skylink services operated by Kinchbus and trentbarton, in addition to My15 and Airline9 buses. The following services are available: Skylink Leicester-Derby, Skylink Nottingham, Skylink Express, My15, and Airline9. It also provides a car park shuttle bus service, currently managed by First Group.

Furthermore, East Midlands Airport bus services are available daily from the Coach Park, conveniently located near the Arrival Hall. National Express, the UK’s largest scheduled coach service operator, offers direct routes to various UK destinations. Private hire coaches have a dedicated bay for safe drop-offs and pickups; booking in advance is required.

Car Hire East Midlands Airport

You’ll discover several car rental East Midlands airport companies, including Alamo, Enterprise, Europcar, and National. Conveniently, all car rental services are situated within the terminal building, ensuring easy access for travellers. These services operate seven days a week. For precise scheduling details, feel free to get in touch with any of the car rental providers.

Additional Information on EMA Airport

The year of foundation: 1965
Number of terminals: 1
East Midlands Time Zone: GMT+1
East Midlands Airport Coordinates: 52.8294° N, 1.3321° W
Location: is situated near Castle Donington, located between Loughborough, Derby, and Nottingham.
East Midlands Airport Address: Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2SA, United Kingdom
East Midlands Airport Postcode: DE74 2SA
East Midlands Airport Code: EMA, EGNX
Contacts: +44 808 169 7032
Website: www.eastmidlandsairport.com

East Midlands Airport Map

Flight Trackers