A small yet bustling UK airport that flies to over 80 destinations looks completely different following several huge renovations
‘Big changes are taking shape’ at a small but popular UK airport, that flies to over 80 destinations. Marking its 60th anniversary in style, East Midlands Airport (EMA) has undergone huge renovations part of a five-year investment programme worth a whopping £120 million.
It has completely refurbished its security hall, while rolling out ‘next-generation scanning equipment’ – meaning holidaymakers won’t have to faff around adding their liquids into a clear plastic bag or be asked to take their electronic items out of their hand luggage. Despite already boasting a 99.5 per cent success rate for customers waiting in security for less than 15 minutes, the new tech will ‘further speed up the process’.
The airport’s security hall also appears ‘fresher and brighter’ than before, thanks to a new ‘halo’ ceiling light and wooden panelling. A ninth lane alongside the entrance to the security hall is also ready for the summer rush.
EMA’s Rapid Drop-Off area has also been upgraded to ‘improve the layout’ as well as help control traffic flow and provide clearer crossing areas for pedestrians. Once inside, the airport’s Meet and Greet service has been refurbished to a similar style as the security hall.
“Upgrades to more of the airport’s toilet facilities have been completed – with two refurbished in the departure lounge and Changing Place facilities in the baggage reclaim hall for those with disabilities,” the airport said in a statement. “Passengers with mobility difficulties are also benefiting from two new fully-electric ‘ambulift’ vehicles to transport them on and off their aircraft.”
Want the latest travel news and cheapest holiday deals sent straight to your inbox? Sign up to our Travel Newsletter
All of the improvements a part of EMA’s £120 million investment programme, which has already seen a bunch of improvements. These include:
- Refurbishment of the Castle Rock Bar and Kitchen
- Opening of a new bar
- Modernised toilets and baby changing facilities
- New and larger JD Sports outlet
- New departure lounge seating,
- New baggage trolleys
- New revolving doors in the check-in hall and anti-backtrack doors in arrivals
- New airside multi faith room
- Upgrades to Air Traffic Control and airfield equipment.
EMA’s managing director Steve Griffiths welcomed the renovation, saying it’s ‘fantastic’ to bring the improvements to customers during the airport’s diamond anniversary this year. “Building on some great improvements that came into effect last year, our investments this year will make big changes to help us meet the expectations of today’s travellers and continue to give them the top quality service and effortless experience they deserve,” he added.
Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured